Prevention is always better than cure and the best way to keep away flu, colds, fever and infections is bystrengthening the natural protection mechanism of the body – immune system, so that it can effectively fight off these problems.

The best way to boost immune system in a natural way is through acupressureand reflexology. The history of acupressure and reflexology can be related to ancient Chinese methodsof healing through touching and pressing of specific pressure points.

Do you fall ill frequently or take more sick leaves than others? The reason may lie in your weak immunesystem that is making your body more susceptible to viruses and bacteria.

Here are the 5 most commoncauses of weak immunity and most of us fall prey to at least one of these.

Reasons

1. 1. Lack of Sleep
2. 2. Stress
3. 3. Sedentary Lifestyle
4. 4. Poor Diet
5. 5. Obesity

Immune system includes-tonsils, adenoids, lymph glands, bone marrow, thymus gland, spleen, appendixand peyer’s patches. The body’s defenses called Lymphocytes (T-cells-cells, phagocytes and plasma cells)travel through lymphatic system, a network that parallels blood veins and arteries.

Once activated against an invader, B-cells and T-cells become memory cells. If the same invader returnsin the future, the immune system knows the right weapon to fight it off.

Traditional Chinese medicine theory and immunityIn the history of traditional Chinese medicine the documentary records for the Chinese word “immune”was first seen in the 18 th century in the book Mian Yi Lei Fang.

As per TCM immune system is associated with functions of all the organs but mainly with Lungs andSpleen.

Lung –Lung system is the most exterior organ and is the first internal organ typically affected by exteriorpathogens. Skin is associated with Wei Qi, ability of defense.Weak Lungs results into diseases like flu, fever, hay fever, cold, viral infections, asthma, and pneumonia.

Spleen and Liver-Digestive system-Food allergies

Strengthening of these organs can reduce the list of foods you are allergic to.Symptoms of weak Spleen and Liver-nausea, diarrhea,

abdominal bloating sensation, headacheKidney Deficiency, long term illness or surgical operation can affect the immunity.

Simple suggestions to boost your immune system and avoid illness.

1. Avoid eating frozen or cold foods; eat while food is still warm. Avoid eating large portions, eatsmall frequent meals.
2. Keep energy up and avoid exhausting yourself.
3. Be sure to get enough sleep and rest.
4. Avoid stress and emotional issues.
5. When you go out into a windy and cold environment, keep warm and protect yourself withclothing such as a scarf.
6. After washing your hair, make sure it is dry before going outside or before going to bed.
7. Balance your body with natural medicine such as Acupuncture, Acupressure, Reflexology so thatyour body can keep up with the seasonal changes without getting sick.

Reflexology

Reflex is an automatic response to the stimulation of a nerve. Reflexology is a reflex zone therapy which focuses primarily on the reflex points on the feet, hands and back. It is a holistic method which involves applying pressure and massaging the reflex points utilising specific thumb, finger and hand techniques.

There are pressure sensors in the feet, hands and ear which are related to the internal body organs. When we apply pressure to the area, signal is generated through the peripheral nervous system from where it enters the central nervous system. There it is processed by the brain and the response is sent to the motor system to make necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen.