Fi Jamieson-Folland zeroes in on effective ways to help you and your family have healthier immune systems…naturally!
Do you remember waiting for the school bell, so you could race home, and get outside to run around with the dog in the bush or the park, or play your favourite ball game with friends, or just ride your bike down the street? This was certainly the time of day I looked forward to the most!
It seems that times – and habits – have changed these days, with TV, computer games and the internet being pretty popular. Whilst there’s still outdoor-time happening, it seems to be less for many of us.
And what’s interesting, is that it’s the outdoor activities that can help our bodies keep stronger and healthier in multiple ways. This includes via the cleaner air in our lungs and more efficient cardiovascular action.
The physical exercise also raises the natural endorphins and increases blood flow, which add to the ‘feel-good’ factor. Keeping active can help our digestive systems be more efficient (remember – 70-80% of our immune system is in our digestive system!), and of course getting out and doing something completely different is an important way to stimulate our brains and improve coordination.
Take Away – Make getting outside and being physically active a fun thing to do – especially when you have a family! Spot opportunities to pop to the park together on the bikes, throw a ball around, or go exploring in the bush.
Just half an hour walking before or after work can have a huge impact, when it’s done on a regular basis. A brief spell for kids after school, spent running around outside, even during the winter months, or on the weekends, can make all the difference. It’s an effective way to connect as a family too!
Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O, is a Lifestyle Consultant, with over 26 years experience in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified osteopath, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, speaker, health mentor and Health Brand Ambassador. She loves to globe-trot with her husband Chris (NZ, Australia, USA, UK + Europe and Indonesia are current favourites) relishing an outdoor lifestyle and time with family and friends.
From Fi’s article published in Lady Star of the Sea Primary School newsletter, 10.13