Boosting Immunity with Shiatsu - and other top tips!

“I used to be one of those people who was forever getting a cold, and if someone around me had one I was almost guaranteed to pick it up! But since my shiatsu training, where I was receiving lots of regular treatments, I noticed that I hadn’t had a cold for months”

The reason why was that my whole energy system, including my immune system, was more in balance as a result of regular shiatsu which strengthens areas where energy is low, in excess, or stuck.

Traditional Chinese Medicine underpins the philosophy of shiatsu and a weakened immune system is often a result of energy (Ki) deficiency in the Lung and Large Intestine system.

The Lung energy (or defensive/protective Ki) circulates around the outside of our body and acts as an invisible shield protecting us from pathogens e.g. common cold as well as heat, cold and wind trying to get in from the outside.

Ever had watery eyes when going for a walk? This is invasion of wind getting in to the body!

In Traditional Chinese Medicine there are other types of energy which have different functions in the body. As well as the protective Ki of the Lungs, Nutritive Ki is related to the food we eat. There is also Shen Ki which is the emotional energy. The mind and body are connected and we need a healthy mind - free from worry, fear or anxiety to have a healthy body. If our emotions are out of balance it can have a negative impact on our overall health, including our ability to fight off infection.

Top tips for boosting your Immune System

• Book a Shiatsu session

By encouraging your energy (Ki) to remain strong it boosts your immune system and helps prevent illness

There is a brilliant acupressure point called Stomach 36 which has the effect of boosting the overall energy in your system, good for any digestive disorder and strengthens the immune system. There are other helpful acupressure points you could use on yourself that I can show you which you have a beneficial effect.

It’s located 4 finger widths below your kneecap and a thumb width to the right of your shin bone. Press gently with your thumb....it may be tender!

• Eat More Immune Boosting Foods

Vitamin C, garlic and ginger can support a healthy body and immune system. During autumn and winter avoid cold or raw foods and focus on eating warm soups and stews.

Did you know that red bell peppers contain 3 times more vitamin c than oranges?

Spinach, broccoli, avocados, beetroot, and kale are also great foods that support a healthy immune system.

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Movement & Laughter

Stress weakens our immune system and studies have shown that laughter and exercise are good for overall health and benefit our immune systems.

Going for a walk in nature can calm your mind-helping you feel more relaxed, reduce stress, and improve circulation and lung function.

Don’t forget to take a few deep breaths as you walk- breathing out old air and breathing in the new!

More information & bookings: jaynepshiatsu@yahoo.com : 07889056673 : fb jaynepshiatsu