The start of a new year is an opportunity to reset, recharge and set new goals. For many of us, the festive season can be indulgent, causing us to later feel sluggish, lethargic and lack energy. As we progress through the winter season and the cold and flu season dominates, many of us reach for something to give our body's defences a helping hand.
Both physical activity and nutrition are popular topics of resolutions. However, we need to be setting achievable goals, with a realistic timeframe to avoid disappointment. Little daily habits during the winter months are useful to aid our motivation. For example, physical activity such as yoga, has been shown to support our immune system. By integrating small daily movements into our routine, this helps to increase our activity levels.
The impact of dietary changes on our natural defences is a popular topic and guidance can often be conflicting. However, we are beginning to develop a clearer picture on the powerful impact of food on our immunity.
Research indicates that as much as 70% of our immune system resides in our gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is vital that we support our gut health through a varied, balanced diet to protect us from common colds and other infections. One small habit to encourage a varied diet is to introduce a new fruit, vegetable, or plant (nuts, seeds and legumes) each week, containing different nutrients such as vitamin A, C and zinc to support our health.
Unfortunately, overly ambiguous new year resolutions can often be unrealistic and unsustainable. It is reported that only 4% of resolutions are maintained after 6 months. However, I have a workshop coming up this month to help your get your year started in the best way...
Sunday 27th January - Aromatherapy and Nutrition for Immunity workshop
Join Emily and Colette for this interactive and informative workshop, exploring how both nutrition and aromatherapy can boost our immunity and fight infections dominate at this time of year. Explore how essential oils can help fight specific illnesses and how aromatherapy can help to manage stress to ensure you remain disease free. Then, you will discover the relationship between your immune system and nutrition, with a specific focus on the gut microbiome and key micronutrients, using the latest scientific research.
Written by Emily Somers. AfN Registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr) and Yoga Teacher at New Energy Yoga, follow at @_wellnessbyem.
Written by Emily Somers and published on Thursday 11th January 2024 at 20:00
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