Healthy for the Holidays
November 16th, 2021
Healthy for the Holidays
by Danielle Lambert
Here come the holidays! This is my favorite time of the year. A time to come together with family and friends, good food and even better company. It can also be a time with extra running around to get everything checked off of your to do list which can leave you feeling tired and rundown. We all want to stay as healthy as possible so we can get the most out of our holiday season. One important factor in maintaining a healthy immune system is supporting your lymphatic system.
You can think of the lymphatic system as the body’s drainage system. It disposes of waste left behind in the body. A network of organs and tissues, primarily lymphatic vessels that also includes the tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus. Together they help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.
The lymphatic system also helps defend the body against germs, bacteria, viruses and fungi by helping to build your body’s immunity. It builds immunity by making special white blood cells called lymphocytes. They produce antibodies which are responsible for immune responses that defend the body against illness.
There are several different factors in keeping your lymphatic system healthy and functioning properly. Here are ways to help support your lymphatic system:
- Daily exercise: including aerobic and anaerobic exercise
- Stay hydrated: half your body weight in ounces
- Eat healthy: fruits and veggies that provide a full range of vitamins, also healthy fats
- Massage therapy: help with lymphatic circulation and moving the lymph fluid
- Dry body brushing: 10 stokes towards the lymph nodes to encourage lymphatic drainage
- Stress management: techniques like meditation and exercise
While you are busy being thankful for what you have and giving back to others don’t forget to thank your body by making it a priority. If you are looking for more ways to keep your body healthy and moving we are here for you all year long. Stay healthy my friends and have a happy and healthy holiday season!
