Immune Systems: Keeping Them Healthy

It is more important than ever to keep our immune systems as healthy as possible as we head into colder weather. Especially with a second wave of the Covid-19 virus leasing its germs upon us in this pandemic.

My gardening business keeps me (very) physically active during the summer months. I also soak up lots of vitamin D. Both are important requirements for keeping our immune systems functioning at their best.

However, during the (too) long winter months here in Canada, I spend my days freelance writing This does absolutely nothing for my physical activity or vitamin D levels. Instead of working in the sunshine and fresh air, digging, and lugging plants and soil, I am indoors, sitting in a comfortable chair with my laptop.

Netflix movies are also more tempting on cold winter evenings, accompanied by a glass of wine and snacks of course.

When I was sick last February, we were just coming off a miserable cold and icy winter. My immune system was probably at a low from lack of physical activity and vitamin D. My consumption of junk food was enjoying a winter high too.

Motivating ourselves during our winter months to get outside is tough, but I plan to keep reminding myself to do so this coming winter. Perhaps like-minded neighbours can be convinced to go for morning walks.

I won’t pretend I will completely avoid high-carb comfort foods, but I can limit them. Continuing my healthy practice of a hydrating and nutrient-packed green smoothie every morning into my gardening off-season should help too.