It's getting to be the time of year when we bundle up in sweaters, consume an inordinate amount of tea, and spend cozy time at home. And while there are so many things to love about autumn, it's also the season when our immune system gets tested.
Luckily, there are some straightforward ways of tending to your health, especially as we move into colder, darker days. The immune system is complex - it's a system, after all! - and usually does a great job at protecting us from bacteria and viruses. We can give it a head start showing our bodies a little love.
1. Get your fruits and veggies!
It's a tale as old as time: "Eat your veggies, kids!" But hey, if it works, it works. And it does. Vegetable and fruits are high in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that promote health, wellbeing, and vitality. And if you're not a huge fan of broccoli or Brussels sprouts, never fear. We recommend making a salad dressing so delicious it helps every veggie shine. Bonus points for one that has raw apple cider vinegar in it, adding probiotics. Which brings us to point #2...
2. Build a healthy gut!
Gut health is intrinsically linked to immune function. Incorporating more probiotics, prebiotics, and fermented food or drink into your meals can add some good bacteria into your digestive system. We use raw organic apple cider vinegar in a variety of ways, of course. What's great is that it can be incorporated in a variety of ways: marinades, drinks, and cooking. Apple State Vinegar has the Mother, which are those fun floaty strands that are actually full of good-for-you bacteria!
3. Find ways of limiting stress
Yes, stress is a part of life. There are times when it seems unavoidable, but it does take a toll on our immune system. Some great ways of relieving stress are mindfulness practices (they can be super short, too!), some moments of self-care, or perhaps taking the time to make a little immunity tonic or tea.
We partnered with Wooden Spoon Herbs to bring you some treats that taste delicious and also give your immune system a whole lotta love. With that in mind, let us introduce the House Call Toddy and the Immunitonic!
The House Call Toddy
The House Call tea blend from Wooden Spoon is like bringing the doctor to your door. It's a blend of red clover, mullein, echinacea, rosehips, and peppermint; a fragrant and healthy way to keep your body thriving. When you add Ginger and Apple Shrub, it tastes just like ginger tea and delivers all the probiotics your digestive system could desire.
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The Immunitonic
Wooden Spoon makes an Immunity Now tincture that is a powerful blend of mushrooms, herbs, and berries that keeps your immune system in tip top shape. Combined with the gut-boosting power of our Shiso and Citrus Shrub, it becomes a tonic that leaves you feeling vibrant and bursting with life. Shiso is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and full of antioxidants. Its fragrance is deeply relaxing, too.
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