Three Ayurvedic Immune Boosters

Dear friends,

Welcome to my weekly holistic tips blog. A special welcome to newcomers.

When I began to practice yoga and meditation in 1990 my parents thought I joined a cult. They actually joined me upstate new York to the Yoga retreat site I attended to check it out. Much to their surprise they loved it! The yoga movement was still at it’s infancy stage compared to where we are now. According to Yoga Journals article https://www.yogauonline.com/yoga-news/yoga-journal-study-20-million-americans-practice-yoga more than 20 million Americans are practicing yoga.Yoga then becomes a catalyst for a holistic lifestyle, hence Ayurveda, Marma, energy healing, essential oils, herbs and so on.
Yesterday I had the honor as a guest lecturer at Emory University in their integrative program. I spoke about energy healing, Ayurveda, Marma, and the use of essential oils/Aromatherapy.
All I can think of is “we’ve come along way, baby” ( not the cigarette billboard ladies, but our approach to whole health).
I feel excited and hopeful that as Universities like this teach integrative health in a mainstream program we are slowly moving toward a society where whole health matters.We are in it now and I know each of you reading this are looking for more ways to move with more energy, vitality, strength and whole health. Thank you for being part of this collective consciousness… we all matter!!

Since allergy season is in full bloom we also need to address our immune system when it comes to this sensitive season.
From an Ayurvedic perspective there are two categories of allergen reactions. One is the kind that a person is born with, caused by genetic predisposition. It can be a reaction to certain foods or to certain allergens in the environment such as dust and pet dander.The second category includes seasonal reactions, or sensitivities that a person has acquired later in life, which can be dealt with more readily.
However the underlying cause of a compromised immune system causing allergies can begin with digestion and the build up of toxic waste in the body known as Ama. So rather than just focus on the symptoms Ayurveda looks to rid the body of these toxins to improve overall strength to the immune system. 
Here are three Ayurvedic Immune Boosters:

1.You’ll want to avoid eating heavy, indigestible foods such as ice cream and other ice-cold foods and drinks, heavy desserts, oily or fried foods, sour yogurt, red meat, and hard cheeses. Avoid leftovers, packaged, canned, frozen or processed foods of any kind, as these are difficult to digest and include chemicals or preservatives that tax the liver.

Aim to eat a light, nourishing diet of cooked, lightly-spiced organic, fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains and dhal soups for protein.You may check last week’s blog for a simple Spring menu plan. You’ll want to ensure the food is warm and deliciously cooked with spices.  You may go easy on the oils, but include a small amount of ghee or olive oil or coconut oil to saute your spices in. Sip hot water throughout the day to help eliminate toxins. Get plenty of rest and enjoy mild exercise such as walking every day.
Recipe for dahl soup http://dieteticdirections.com/indian-dhal-soup-2/

2. Essential oils contain potent natural chemicals that boost the immune system in the human body. Lemon oil can act as a natural antihistamine while at the  same time removing toxic build up in the body. Research shows that lemon oil contains powerful antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation, fight bacteria and fungi, boost energy levels and ease digestion.The company Nature’s Gifts is a good source for Aromatherapy.https://www.naturesgift.com/ You can apply ten drops in a cool mist diffuser and use in your home or office or add two drops with a carrier oil like Jojoba oil and apply to your chest and back of the neck. 

3.To continue to detoxify your body during the allergen season, eat lots of green vegetables and summer squashes, such as zucchini. Warm cooked vegetables are easier to digest vs. raw. Lightly steamed, roasted or sauteed are best options. You might try a cup of “Triphala” tea at bedtime or upon waking to further eliminate toxins from the body. Tri-phala means ” three fruits” Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).The three tastes in triphala support digestion and elimination. You can purchase Triphala tea here  https://www.ayurveda.com/

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Hope you get plenty of sunshine inside and out this season.

warm regards,
Gedalia