Too much stress in our largely urbanized cities is a modern day phenomenon that so many have to suffer. Stress is the unspecific physiological and psychological reaction to perceived threats to our physical, psychological or social integrity. And if you live in Lagos especially, I do not need to explain what stress is to you, especially if you live on the mainland and work on the island. But even in the face of unending and daily stress, we have to find a way of making our immune systems work hard to keep us healthy. And the only way we can make our immune systems work effectively is to give them care and attention by getting all the necessary nutrients, and surrounding ourselves with the kind of environment that supports good immunity.
Let’s look at ways to make our immune systems work hard and thereby upgrade our health. These tips are by no means exhaustive but if you practice them and others that you can get from qualified professionals, you are on your way to making your health a top priority in your life.
1. Less Alcohol, Less Sugary Drinks
Alcohol is a depressant, which means that it slows down the brain and also alters the brain’s chemistry and increases the risk of depression and anxiety. Drinking too much can weaken your immune system, making your body a much easier target for disease. Chronic drinkers are more liable to contract diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis than people who do not drink too much.
Also cut down on your intake of sugary drinks or soda. Yes, your body needs some sugar especially because of its high calorie content that will give your body energy that you lack and that short burst of increased productivity. However, too much sugar is a huge health hazard; it ups the risk of obesity, stroke, and other heart related problems.
2. More Water
Our body is about 60% percent water and needs water for almost every function. So, drinking enough of it daily maintains the body’s fluid balance, which helps transport nutrients in the body, regulate body temperature, digest food, and more. Many of the aches and pains, headaches, and other symptoms we experience would lessen if we just drank more water.
3. Exercise Regularly
Your body was made to move not just to sit in one place all day long. So take a brisk walk, run that treadmill, go for that jog, or just skip the rope. A lot of people think exercise is only for “fat” people but even if you’re slim, you’ll still get health benefits from exercising. And a small amount of regular activity will lower the risk of developing major chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke.
4. Find Time to De-stress
Living in a city such as Lagos can be hard. A lot of people I know don’t grab more than 4 hours of sleep. But even at that, you must find a way to let out the stress. You can find a spot in your home, somewhere outside, or a park where you can get away from disruptions and chaos and clear your thoughts or just meditate. Also make sure you create time to stay away from TV, computers or cell phones once in a while. No matter how busy you are, you need some downtime to rest. Remember, a man who does not give his body some rest will soon have his soul rest in peace.
5. Give a Loving Hug
As much as possible, hug someone you love. Your parents, your siblings, your partner, your bestie or anyone you just have some feelings for. When you hug someone you love (that is someone who actually wants to be hugged though) there is an instant boost to your oxytocin levels, which heal feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anger. And when you hug and hold for an extended time, your serotonin level is lifted, elevating your mood and creating happiness. So, hug someone today – you can start from me *winks*
6. Active Sex Life
Even if you have been told that sex is bad or is meant for only procreation, you need to also know that it is a natural way to improve or upgrade your health. I won’t and can’t convince you to have it if you don’t want to, but an active sex life helps you to relax, to sleep and even to burn off some extra calories. It is a really great form of exercise, it won’t replace the treadmill, but it counts for something. Stay healthy.
About the author: Chris Bamidele is a passionate and unapologetic Nigerian, who believes in God and humanity. He is a writer, blogger, and an aspiring Television Director; and an optimist to the core. He blogs at www.chrisbamidele.wordpress.com and tweets @Chrisbamidele. He currently lives in Lagos.
