Can too much stress in your life cause sickness? This was once thought to be a wellness cliché, but a growing body of research suggests that there may be real truth behind this theory. Chronic stress not only affects how you feel on an emotional level, but it also alters immune function on a cellular level. Ultimately, that changes how well the body defends itself against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, pollutants, and other germs. 

A recent study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that insomnia and anxiety were linked to significantly lower levels of natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are among the immune system’s first line of defense. Findings indicated that the more severe the anxiety, the steeper the decline in NK cells. That means that stress and anxiety may actively thin your immune system’s army, in a way, making you more susceptible to illness. 

What Are NK Cells And What Do They Do?

NK cells belong to the innate immune system, which you can think of as the body’s rapid-response team. These cells monitor blood and tissues, identifying and destroying damaged, infected, or abnormal cells before problems arise. There are two subtypes of NK cells:

• CD16+CD56dim cells: These cells make up the majority of NK cells and are very cytotoxic, which means that they directly destroy harmful cells. 
• CD16+CD56high cells: These cells assist with regulating immune signaling and inflammation. 
• If NK cell numbers decline too much, the immune system may find it difficult to both contain infections and abnormal cell growth in the early stages. That ultimately raises long-term health risks. 

What Did The Study Reveal?

To begin, researchers examined 60 female university students aged 17 to 23. Participants completely validated questionnaires, assessing self-reported anxiety and symptoms of insomnia. They also provided blood samples in order for researchers to measure different NK cell populations. 

Researchers noted that mental health responses were very bleak, with 75% of participants reporting anxiety symptoms. Roughly 17% and 13% of participants fell into moderate and severe categories. Additionally, 53% of the participants experienced sleep difficulties that researchers found consistent with insomnia. Besides these startling findings, researchers noted that blood samples revealed a much clearer picture:

• The severity of anxiety mattered, with mild anxiety showing minimal, non-significant changes. Moderate to severe anxiety was associated with a notable reduction of NK cells. 
• Students who reported anxiety symptoms exhibited both lower numbers and lower percentages of NK cells, including cytotoxic types. 
• In students who reported sleep disturbances, higher anxiety scores revealed an even greater decline in total peripheral NK cells. 

An Important Note

The study focused on young women between the ages of 17 and 23. Sleep disorders and anxiety are rising the fastest in this age group. Although that makes the findings relevant, it also limits how broadly they can be applied. Researchers need future studies across different ages, sexes, and regions in order to fully understand how stress affects immune function. 

The Takeaway

Stress is not just something that lives in the mind. The constant edge that you cannot shake or racing thoughts may reshape the immune system and how it functions, leaving your body more vulnerable to illness. This study serves to remind people that having stress management practices can help your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. Allow your whole body to flourish in the immediate and long-term when you get your stress under control.

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Why would you want to build resilience? Well, building resilience helps you overcome challenges, grow as a person, and face adversity. Unfortunately, you are not born with resilience, but anyone can practice and build it. Through various self-care practices, you can not only stay emotionally and mentally well, but also move through hard times and learn from experiences. This year, make it a point to become stronger and more resilient with these mental health practices. 

Set Realistic Goals

In order to set yourself up for success, you have to set realistic goals, which is essentially the practice of breaking down challenges into smaller, more manageable tasks. Not only will you build resilience by meeting your goals more often, but you’ll also move forward more quickly. If you want to run a 5K, for example, and you do not have a regular running routine, you cannot expect to be race-ready in a week’s time. Gradually build up your skills as a runner, jogging more each day until you have built up enough endurance to run one mile. Then you can run two miles and be closer to your 5K. 

• Break up those bigger goals into smaller steps. 
• Commit to each step and work toward your goal with a daily practice.
• Make sure each of your steps is realistic and doable. 
• Celebrate each accomplishment. 
• Gather support by reaching out to people who are working toward similar goals.

Build Problem-Solving Skills

Solving problems effectively is a great way to build resilience. To become more adept at problem-solving, you have to develop the knowledge and skillset to tackle problems with strategies that work. Consider these steps:

• Begin by identifying the problem you want to solve.
• Do your best to describe the problem by either writing it down or voicing it out loud.
• Try to determine the cause of the problem before trying to solve it.
• Think of several possible solutions for the problem. 
• Not the results and continue experimenting until you find a solution. 
• Having the right mindset will get you that much closer to solving the problem. 

Develop A Growth Mindset

When you have a growth mindset, you can see life’s challenges as new opportunities to learn. Basically, a growth mindset is the belief your abilities are not fixed; rather, you can develop new strengths and skills at any time. When you encounter something difficult, you do not retreat. You face the situation head on with the understanding that you will emerge a stronger person on the other side, and that you may learn a lesson to benefit you in the future. To help cultivate a growth mindset:

• Have realistic expectations of what you can accomplish. 
• Learn to embrace imperfections.
• Embrace the journey of learning via experience. 
• Learn to value and accept any and all criticism. 
• Reframe your idea of what failure means and learn from mistakes. 
• Give yourself the time and space to work through challenges or problems. 

Don’t Forget About Self-Care

What does self-care mean, and how does it help you build resilience? Well, you cannot move through difficult situations if you are not emotionally, mentally, and physically well. Self-care is any activity or practice that nourishes you. That could be reading a book in a bubble bath, meditating, or watching a couple episodes of your favorite show while doing a facial skin care routine. Common self-care practices include:

• Eating a nutrient-rich, balanced diet. 
• Practicing daily habits that help relieve stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness.
• Prioritizing sleep.
• Writing and reflecting on thoughts, feelings, or life experiences. 
• Engaging in regular physical activity that you actually enjoy.

Embrace Change And Be Flexible

The last thing you want to be is rigid when it comes to building resilience. Life is about embracing change and adapting to things when you encounter them. Your resilience is dependent on your ability to change directions when necessary. It’s also about appreciating imperfections and learning from unexpected things or experiences. Some ways you can do this are as follows:

• Try to look at the bigger picture and know that overreacting to something difficult does not help you move forward. 
• Understand that change is a part of life and that even if things get shaky, the only thing you can control is your reaction. 
• Try to maintain some hope, even if life throws you a few curveballs. Difficult situations can be unexpected, but the same applies for good situations. 
• Become more mindful of fixed thoughts, such as, “There is no way I’m doing that.” Or, “Everything is going to be this way forever!”

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The beginning of the year is a time when people set goals to inspire positive changes in their lives. Many people return to the age-old tradition of making New Year’s resolutions, while others prefer to set intentions. Some people choose to make vision boards, and many people don’t care to do any of that. If you are someone who enjoys making resolutions, this article will help you adopt three healthy habits that can improve your overall lifestyle and health.

Historians suggest that New Year’s resolutions date back more than 4,000 years to the Babylonian civilization. This was the first known society to celebrate the New Year. During the Akitu festival, the Babylonians presented themselves before their gods and pledged to repay debts and return borrowed items in hopes of a prosperous year ahead. To this day, paying off debts tends to top New Year’s resolutions, but neither paying off debts nor spending more time with family and friends is possible without good health. 

With that said, we have several healthy habits that you can easily adopt in 2026. If you do not eat healthy and exercise regularly, you will likely gain weight. Sedentary lifestyles and highly processed foods are large contributors to the growing obesity problem in the United States. You don’t have to adopt an all-or-nothing mindset; rather, you can make small adjustments over time. The key is to be consistent, as that is how you make lasting habits. 

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep plays a crucial role in your overall health, as it is the body’s natural way to rejuvenate and recover. You don’t want to oversleep, but you don’t want to stay awake all night, either. Life is about balance, and the research supports this. Some sleep data showed that people who slept fewer than five hours or more than eight to nine hours had worse blood sugar over time. Insufficient sleep can also lead to stress, overeating, and ultimately weight gain. Prioritize consistent sleep hygiene in order to achieve better health. Go to bed and wake up around the same time every day. Develop a consistent bedtime routine. You can even consider meditation, breathing exercises, or other relaxation techniques within an hour before bedtime to promote better sleep. 

Be More Active

Commit to moving your body more in 2026, especially after meals, as this habit can help improve metabolism, blood sugar, and overall wellbeing over time. Studies show that taking a short walk, even just for 10 minutes after a meal can lower blood sugar. Doing this after every meal is an easy habit to incorporate into your daily life. It is beneficial to involve the entire family, as that encourages more time outdoors, more time with family, and promotes physical activity for everyone. It is best to make an activity fun, as that is a great way to help it stick. Dance while cleaning up the kitchen or play games outside. By turning movement into quality time, you can help make it a habit. 

Follow A Healthy Diet

Your diet is the cornerstone of your health, and you cannot out-exercise a poor diet. Enjoy a diverse mix of colorful fruits and vegetables (eat the rainbow) to help enhance your intake of various vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and more. Some people prefer to adopt a dietary pattern, such as a vegan diet, Mediterranean diet, MIND diet, or DASH diet. These diets lead to better health markers, including improved heart function, lower inflammation, and reduced rates of cognitive decline. Ultimately, it is best to reduce your intake of sugar and ultra-processed foods. Even if you start there, you will drastically improve your health. Just one additional serving of a sugar-sweetened beverage per day can increase the risk of diabetes by 13 to 27%. Drink plain sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lime, lemon, kiwi, or even basil, in place of sodas or sugary beverages. Additionally, replacing highly processed foods with fiber-rich and whole foods can make a significant difference to your health.

Remember that every decision counts, but you won’t have results without intention. Start small, but make consistent choices around sleep, exercise, and diet. You will see the difference over time and be able to live a longer, happier, quality life. Need a little kickstart in the new year? Get things moving and grooving with the 20-day Full Body Cleanse!

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The world of health and wellness is ever-changing. In recent years, there have been major shifts in how and where people work, personalized health, and a renewed desire for nourishment and deep rest. As we head into 2026, consumers seem to prioritize metabolic health, nature-based healing, precision wellness, longevity, and mental fitness. Whether you are looking to optimize your daily routine or upgrade your nutrition plan, 2026 trends will shine a light on where health is heading. 

2026 is shaping up to be a turning point in the world of wellness. Health and wellness continues to become more personalized, more integrated into daily life, and smarter. 2026 builds on momentum from previous years, reflecting on a deeper understanding of what health means. We are not talking about quick fixes or trendy fads; rather, holistic well-being grounded in research, self-awareness, sustainable habits, and real-life living. Some of the predicted trends for 2026 are detailed below. 

Precision Wellness And Hyper-Personalization 

Is 2026 about to be the turning point for personalized wellness? AI-driven analytics, at-home biomarker tests, and devices that track everything from steps to sleep make it seem that way. You no longer need multiple specialists to give you insights to your health. This personalization can help people improve their health based on individual recommendations, not some one-size-fits-all answer. Consumers have access to: 

• Real-time metabolic readiness scores
• AI-powered coaching integrated into wearable devices
• Gut microbiome testing
• Nutrition plans based on biomarkers
• Personalized supplement recommendations

Bioharmony Nutrition

In 2026, nutrition will get a major reset. Say goodbye to hyper-restriction or extreme trends. Within recent years, consumers have gravitated toward bioharmony nutrition, which is basically eating in alignment with your circadian rhythm, metabolic needs, and digestive comfort. Think organ-supporting foods, phytonutrient-dense meals, and gut-friendly recipes. These things contribute to stable moods, better digestion, and sustainable energy. You can expect more:

• Whole food protein sources
• Fermented foods
• Anti-inflammatory culinary herbs and spices
• Blood-sugar-friendly meals
• Seasonal eating
• Sea vegetables, mineral-rich produce, and chayote

Workplace Wellness Evolves Beyond Office Perks

Corporate wellness continues to become more holistic and driven by outcomes. It’s no secret that companies have started incorporating wellness ecosystems into their workplace rather than isolated programs. Companies want to enhance the health of employees, as better health has been linked to productivity, creativity, resilience, and retention. Things that you may see trending in the workplace are as follows:

• Movement breaks built into the workday
• Hybrid-week rhythm planning
• Stress recovery rooms
• Ergonomic and circadian-friendly office design
• Mental health skill-building 
• Sleep-friendly scheduling

Longevity Lifestyles Go Mainstream

Beyond supplements and biohacking, longevity is set to move forward and become a more of a comprehensive lifestyle in 2026. You may see people blend functional nutrition, strength training, community connection, metabolic optimization, and restorative sleep. People may shift toward routines that help improve both life span and healthspan. 

The focus will be on inflammation reduction, stress resilience, and hormonal balance, all through simple daily habits. The reason for this is that research continues to show that metabolic flexibility and inflammation levels can predict how you’ll age. As it happens, the tools to support these outcomes are more accessible than ever! Expect the following in 2026:

• Heavy strength training for muscle preservation
• Early eating windows
• Daily protein optimization
• Tech-free nighttime routines
• Zone 2 cardio

Nervous System Regulation

Right now, the standard recommendation is to reduce stress, but 2026 will focus on regulating the nervous system to manage stress. This shift puts more emphasis on supporting vagal tone, lowering cortisol levels, and building emotional resilience. If the sympathetic nervous system is chronically activated, you can experience burnouts, higher anxiety, digestive issues, and imbalances throughout the body. Regulating the nervous system can support everything from focus to sleep and immunity. You can expect the following techniques as new health trends:

• Cold therapy specifically timed to circadian rhythms
• Trauma-informed practices
• Somatic movement
• Heat therapy paired with mindfulness
• Breathwork sequences beyond the basics

Expect to see trends that are more tailored to individual health, instead of general recommendations. Everything will be more personalized to elevate your health to the next level. What will you take part in? Let us know in the comments. 

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Have you ever been in bed attempting to go to sleep, but you just end up staring at the ceiling at two in the morning? That’s not uncommon for people with insomnia. Although sleeping pills and other downers may help you sleep, they are not long-term solutions, nor are they the safest for your health. 

A recent, large analysis suggests that people with sleep troubles may soon be able to sleep with ease. There are certain forms of exercise that may rival medication and therapy when it comes to improving sleep. The researchers stated that gentle, intentional movement, such as Tai Chi, yoga, or even a brisk walk, can boost sleep time and help you fall asleep more easily. There was even one practice that emerged as a standout, offering benefits that may last years. 

The Standout Sleep Helpers

Researchers looked at over 20 clinical trials that tested different exercise programs, including yoga, Tai Chi, walking, jogging, and strength training. They compared those exercises to standard care and lifestyle changes. In their analysis, they found that several forms of exercise delivered several benefits, especially jogging or walking, yoga, and Tai Chi. In fact, yoga was associated with two extra hours of total sleep time. It also improved sleep efficiency by nearly 15% and reduced the time it took to fall asleep by 30 minutes. 

Walking or jogging were more beneficial for reducing overall insomnia severity, as they lowered insomnia score by nearly 10 points. That is enough to make a significant difference in daytime energy, concentration, and mood. 

Tai Chi turned out to be the most beneficial exercise for sleep. If you do not know, Tai Chi is a slow, Chinese martial art that combines deep breathing, graceful movements, and a meditative state of mind. Tai Chi was able to improve every sleep outcome measured in the analysis, from duration to overall quality. It was able to add over 50 minutes of sleep per night, shortened sleep latency by nearly 25 minutes, and kept people from waking up as frequently. What’s more impressive is that the benefits persisted two years after starting the practice. 

The Science Behind It All

• Tai Chi: It helps relax muscles while activating the parasympathetic (the rest and digest) nervous system. That works to lower the physiological hyperarousal that is common in people with insomnia. In the long-term, Tai Chi may help reduce inflammation, support healthy circadian rhythms, and boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor. 
• Yoga: It works to enhance body awareness, mindfulness, and breath control, all of which work to reduce anxiety and calm an overactive brain. Additionally, yoga may help improve flexibility and be quite restorative. 
• Walking or jogging: Both of these exercises help increase energy expenditure, which can lower stress hormones like cortisol and enhance melatonin production. Both of those translate to deeper stages of sleep and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. 

How To Optimize Your Sleep

If you currently struggle with insomnia, you do not have to completely overhaul your fitness routine. According to the study, the type of exercise matters more than the amount of exercising you do if you want to improve sleep. If you tend to wake up frequently throughout the night, yoga and Tai Chi may be more beneficial. If you struggle with daytime fatigue, jogging or walking are better options. Finally, if you’re striving for both short- and long-term sleep benefits, consider practicing Tai Chi.

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The average person spends approximately one-third of their life sleeping. Assuming you live to 70 years old, that’s about 23 years of sleeping, so it is important, to say the least. During sleep, the body has a chance to health and rejuvenate. Without proper rest, you will likely not feel your best, which can also trigger you to make unhealthy decisions, from the food you eat to lack of exercise. 

If you cannot sleep or experience difficulty falling asleep on a regular basis, you may require some natural sleep aids. Tens of millions of people experience difficulty focusing due to lack of sleep. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that millions of people nod off while driving. 

Fortunately, you do not have to let sleep get the better of you any longer. You can make some simple lifestyle changes, such as using natural sleep aid options that help you feel more refreshed. Additionally, being in sync with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, the circadian rhythm, can also help improve overall sleep. In addition to experimenting with the following sleep aids, consider establishing a consistent bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine too late in the day, and getting away from screens too close to bedtime. 

Magnesium

Studies confirm that people who are deficient in magnesium have more difficulty falling and staying asleep. Alternatively, people with higher magnesium levels tend to experience deeper sleep. That is especially true when sufficient magnesium intake is coupled with calcium intake, as calcium optimizes magnesium absorption. If you need help getting more magnesium in your diet, consider the following food ideas and combinations:

• Banana with almonds 
• Steel cut oats with dark cherries
• Kefir with turmeric and cinnamon
• Chamomile, passion flower, and valerian tea
• Avocados
• Crackers with almond butter
• Pumpkin seeds
• Dark chocolate

Valerian Root

According to research, valerian root exhibits relaxing and sedative effects. Typically, it is used in combination with chamomile, especially in relaxing tea blends. Valerian works to increase the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps calm nerve cells in the brain. The Dherbs Nerve Formula contains valerian root for that exact reason, as it helps calm the nervous system. GABA also works to block Brian signals that cause anxiety.

St. John’s Wort

Depression is one of the most common conditions that can cause lack of sleep. Studies suggest that St. John’s wort, which contains adhyperforin and hyperforin, may drive mood and work as powerful as antidepressants. The National Sleep Foundation reported that insomnia is also common among depressed people. People who have insomnia are also at a higher risk for developing depression. Research shows that using St. John’s wort to treat depression may lead to more restful sleep.

Lavender

Well-known for its calming properties, lavender essential oil may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. A randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of lavender and sleep hygiene practices versus sleep hygiene alone on sleep quality. Study authors separate the 79 college student participants with sleep troubles into two groups. Both of the groups practiced strong sleep hygiene and one of the groups wore an inhalation chest patch with lavender. The study took place over five days, with a two-week follow-up. The group with the lavender chest patch improved sleep quality. 

Chamomile

Similar to lavender, chamomile is also known for its calming effects. Drinking chamomile tea or taking it as a supplement can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. A 2015 study involved 80 Taiwanese postnatal women with poor sleep quality. The researchers split them into two groups, one of which drank chamomile tea for two weeks, while the other was a control group. The chamomile group demonstrated significantly lower scores of physical-symptoms-related sleep inefficiency. Researchers noted that the chamomile group, while the effects were positive, were only limited to the immediate term. 

Passion Flower

Not only does anxiety affect how you sleep, but it also affects the brain’s ability to turn off. Passion flower provides a calming effect that may help an anxious person’s circle of thought. Clinical trials confirm that passion flower can reduce anxiety as effectively as benzodiazepine oxazepam, a commonly prescribed anxiety medication. A four-week, double-blind study of people with general anxiety disorder compared passion flower to that drug. Although oxazepam worked a little faster, passion flower was equally as effective. That confirms that passion flower is a powerful anti-anxiety aid that may in turn benefit sleep. 

Essential Oils

There are many essential oils that help calm the mind and body, and most of them do not cause adverse reactions. One study on cancer patients, a common group with sleep issues, aimed to understand if aromatherapy using essential oils could help them achieve better sleep. Each patient received aroma sticks over a 13-week period. Of the participants, 94% reported using the aroma sticks, while 92% reported that they would continue to use them. Of the essential oils, bergamot, frankincense, lavender, mandarin, and sandalwood essential oils proved most effective for aiding sleep.

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It’s not secret that cherries offer numerous health benefits, given that they are nutrient-dense. Sour cherries, in particular, work to fight inflammation, may reduce muscle soreness, and boost immune function. Some research also suggests that tart cherries, or tart cherry juice, may help people improve their sleep. The key to a more restful night’s sleep could be in the refrigerator!

Why Tart Cherry Juice?

About one-third of Americans report that they do not get enough sleep every night. A lot of people suffer from insomnia, restlessness, and other health issues that impact sleep quality and quantity. Tart cherry juice enters the equation because, although it is not an insomnia cure, it may lead to better and longer sleep. Researchers attribute this to the melatonin and tryptophan in tart cherries. 

Melatonin is a sleep hormone that the body secretes at certain times of the day to signal the body that it is time for sleep. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that helps the body produce melatonin. Tryptophan is not just something people talk about during the holidays when turkeys are cooking. There are nine milligrams (mg) of tryptophan in a 100 mg serving of tart cherries. Evidence suggests that drinking tart cherry juice also increases the available melatonin in the body and promotes better sleep quality. 

How Much Tart Cherry Juice Should You Drink?

One study indicated that participants who drank eight ounces of tart cherry juice twice a day for two weeks experienced improved sleep. When you choose tart cherry juice, make sure to pick the one without added sugar. Adding too much sugar to your diet can negatively affect blood sugar levels and may cause energy spikes before bed. If the sour flavor of tart cherry juice is too strong, you can buy tart cherry extract as a supplement. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplement reports that there are no safety concerns with drinking up to 16 ounces in a single day for two weeks. It also states that it is acceptable to take 480 milligrams (mg) of tart cherry extract capsules once per day for up to two weeks. If you take a melatonin supplement, pill, or gummy, talk to your doctor before adding tart cherry juice to the equation. 

When Should You Drink Tart Cherry Juice For Sleep?

Just like a consistent bedtime routine, consistency is key. Drink the tart cherry juice at the same time every day to help increase the body’s melatonin production. Consider adding tart cherry juice to your bedtime routine, but don’t drink it right before you go to sleep. That said, researchers found that tart cherry juice can improve sleep no matter what time you drink it. If you prefer a glass at breakfast or lunch, you can still experience the same benefits as drinking it before bed. Should you choose to drink it at night, drink it about an hour or so before bed to prevent having to wake up and use the restroom in the middle of the night. 

Additional Benefits Of Tart Cherry Juice

In addition to improving your sleep, tart cherry juice may also provide the following health benefits:

• Reduced pain: It’s possible that tart cherry juice may help reduce pain in instances other than athletic recovery. Studies show that people with arthritis who consumed tart cherry juice experienced reduced pain and stiffness. Those same people also experienced improved biological markers associated with arthritis after drinking tart cherry juice consistently. 
• Improved muscle recovery: There are antioxidants in tart cherry juice that have demonstrated an ability to reduce muscle damage in athletes. Drinking tart cherry juice or taking tart cherry capsules before exercise may help reduce muscle pain and improve athletic performance. 
• Improved memory and brain health: One study found that older adults with dementia who consumed six ounces of tart cherry juice for 12 weeks experienced improvements in both short- and long-term memory. This is because the antioxidants in tart cherry juice work to protect against degeneration and help keep the brain healthy.

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Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? If you do, you are not alone. Although there is no general recommendation that will cure every person’s sleep issues, there is usually a remedy or two that can work for one, some, or many people. Sometimes, the simplest remedies can make the biggest difference. 

This DIY lavender chamomile sleep salve is a helpful tool to naturally support more restful sleep. The herbs in this sleep salve help naturally calm the mind and body, helping you get more relaxed and in the right headspace for better sleep. Not only is it easy to make and gentle on the skin, but it is also full of skin-nourishing ingredients, including coconut oil and beeswax. Keep a little tin by your bed and use it nightly as part of your bedtime wind-down routine. 

Why Use A Sleep Salve?

This sleep salve recipe uses lavender and cedarwood essential oils, in addition to chamomile and lavender flowers. When applied to your body, the oils release their aroma to encourage relaxation and help the nervous system activate rest mode. Both lavender and chamomile work to soothe the nervous system and prepare the body for sleep. Cedarwood essential oil has exhibited sedative effects that support melatonin release. 

How Does Lavender Promote Sleep?

A trial from 2020 found that breathing lavender essential oil for 30 minutes helped reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. A 2019 study suggested that lavender may improve the body’s melatonin levels, which may improve overall sleep. That is why a lot of people find it easier to unwind before bed and fall asleep faster when they inhale lavender aroma at night. Some people drop some lavender essential oil under their pillow to promote sleep, while others use lavender-scented balms or creams at night. Keep in mind that lavender alone will not fix sleep problems. You have to maintain good sleep habits, such as avoiding screens before bed, keeping the bedroom cool and quiet, and following a bedtime routine, to improve sleep. 

How Does Chamomile Promote Sleep?

A meta-analysis of 12 randomized, controlled trials found that chamomile was able to improve sleep quality. Researchers consider it to be a mild sedative, which is why it helps relax the nervous system. One study found that chamomile helped people with insomnia function slightly better during the day. Apigenin, a flavonoid in chamomile, is believed to cause a sedative effect. It binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. Prescription drugs that bind to those receptors typically treat insomnia, seizures, or anxiety. Studies suggest that chamomile is one of the richest natural sources of apigenin. 

DIY Sleep Salve

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup lavender flowers
• 1/4 cup chamomile flowers
• 1 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 cup strained herbal oil (instructions below)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 10 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the lavender and chamomile flowers to a clean jar and cover with avocado oil. Let the jar sit for four to six weeks in a cool, dark place. Strain oil when finished. 
• If you are short on time, you can gently heat the herbs and oil in a double boiler for about three to four hours over low heat and then strain the oil. 
• In a double boiler, combine 1/4 cup of the infused oil, coconut oil, and beeswax. Stir occasionally until fully melted. 
• Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before stirring in the essential oils. 
• Pour the mixture into tins or jars and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Screw on the lids and store in a cool, dark place. Use within six months for best results.

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The leaves change, the weather gets cooler, and the scent of pumpkin spice emanates from almost every coffee shop. If those things do not indicate fall, we don’t know what will. A lot of people also spend more time indoors, due to colder weather, and that just so happens to coincide with the arrival of cold and flu season. If you like to take a more proactive approach to health, which includes strengthening the immune system, that can only benefit you this fall.

Why Prioritize Immune Health Now?

The immune system works round the clock to protect the body from harmful pathogens. There is no magic pill that guarantees full immunity, but there are many practical, science-backed methods that can help you enhance immune defense. Getting a head start on immune support is integral to having a vibrant fall and winter. Build up your resilience before you come down with the common cold or flu. Consider the following strategies to fuel your immune system this fall. 

Get Creative When You Feel Too Tired To Exercise

Movement is better than no movement at all, as physical activity improves circulation, lowers stress, and helps immune cells travel throughout the body with ease. Physical activity can also boost energy levels, enhance digestive function, and improve brain health. Sometimes, you don’t want to go to the gym or spin class on colder fall days. That’s completely fine, but it’s important to get creative in order to fit some movement into your day. That can be as simple as a 15-minute walk through the neighborhood, following a 25-minute yoga video in the living room, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Consistency is key, and even short bursts of activity can help encourage better immune function. 

Stay Hydrated

When the weather is colder, it is more common for people to avoid water. The reason for this is because they don’t feel like they need to hydrate because of the summer heat. Water works to carry nutrients to cells and helps the body flush out toxins, two processes that are vital to optimal immune function. By drinking plenty of water throughout the day (more than you think you need), you can help keep up the body’s natural defenses. You can also enhance hydration by eating water-rich foods and drinking herbal teas. Just remember that caffeinated beverages and sugary drinks can dehydrate the body. 

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is not a luxury; rather, it is a necessity. That is true whether you are discussing immune function, mental health, stress, or digestion. During sleep, the body produces cytokines, which are protective proteins that are essential for fighting inflammation and infection. Sleep experts encourage people to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night. To maintain healthy sleep habits, establish a consistent sleep schedule, even on the weekends, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep. Lastly, make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet to facilitate healthy sleep. 

Keep Stress Levels Down

It’s common to experience stress every now and again. Maybe your in-laws are visiting or you have $20 riding on a football game. Problems arise when stress becomes chronic, as it can actually suppress the immune system and make you more susceptible to illness. Finding ways to manage stress can go a long way in keeping cortisol levels in check. Try spending time in nature, connecting with loved ones, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies that take your mind off things. If stress becomes unmanageable and overwhelming, consider talking to your primary care provider or a mental health specialist. 

Don’t Forget Hand Hygiene

This is a simple act that offers a lot of protection, yet many people neglect proper hand hygiene. Perhaps their hands come in contact with many high-touch surfaces (shopping carts, doorknobs, etc.) and then they put their hands in the eyes, mouth, or nose. If those surfaces had germs on them, those germs could then enter the body and cause infection. If you touch something dirty, take 20 seconds to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. That is especially true after you cough, sneeze, or use the restroom.

Fuel The Body With Nutrition

What you eat impacts your overall health, including your immune system. Health experts suggest people focus on consuming an array of colorful fruits and vegetables as a way to diversify antioxidant intake. Whole fruits and vegetables also offer integral vitamins, minerals, and compounds that encourage healthy immune function. In addition to eating the rainbow, it is best to consume: 

• Whole grains: they provide sustained energy because of the fiber content. Fiber works to enhance gut health, which is closely linked to immune function. 
• Healthy fats: essential for reducing inflammation and enhancing nutrient absorption, you can find these in nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and avocado oil.
• Probiotic foods: sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt, kombucha, kimchi, natto, and miso are all rich in probiotics, which support a healthy microbiome. A higher presence of healthy bacteria in the gut has been linked to better immune function.

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The post 6 Ways To Fuel Your Immune System This Fall appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

When you are sick, you’d give anything in the world to feel healthy. Are we right or are we right? You drink tea, hydrate beyond belief, take hot baths, gargle with salt water, do a sinus rinse or two, and nourish the body with healthy foods to accelerate your recovery. What if you took care of your body like that all the time, though? There is nothing wrong with giving your immune system a helping hand year-round. 

The immune system does a phenomenal job of protecting the body against microorganisms. Sometimes, it fails and a germ successfully invades the body and causes sickness. Now, it is enticing to strengthen and support the immune system to defeat invading pathogens. The first line of defense is to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and keeping stress levels in check. When you do these things, every part of your body functions better, especially the immune system. Boost immune function all year with the following healthy-living strategies. 

Get A Good Night’s Sleep

According to sleep experts, sleep and the circadian rhythm are strong regulators of immunological processes. One study found a bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the immune system. This connection is mediated by shared signals (neurotransmitters, cytokines, and hormones) and direct innervations of the immune system via the autonomic nervous system. Basically, the body releases proteins (cytokines) during sleep. By boosting cytokine production, you can help strengthen immune function. Additional research found that people who do not get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep per night are more susceptible to colds and respiratory infections. 

Keep Stress Levels In Check

Most people encounter stress, at least a small amount, on a weekly (if not daily) basis. The trick is to minimize the amount of stress that you experience, while also finding ways to handle the stress you cannot avoid. Stress can have a variety of effects on mental and physical health, especially the immune system. Chronic stress can decrease the production of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help the body fight off infection. If you want to reduce stress, consider adopting a variety of stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, grounding, and more. 

Exercise 

A lot of research indicates that exercising at moderate intensity for 30 to 60 minutes three to five days per week is highly beneficial to the immune system. You don’t have to hit the gym for hours every single day; rather, a brisk walk in the neighborhood, a bike ride, or laps at your local pool can be highly beneficial. Elevating your heart rate works to increase the circulation of immune cells. These cells are the body’s first line of defense for fighting off foreign invaders, so the more you have circulating, the better you are able to protect the body. As a quick note, though, long bouts of high-intensity exercise can actually weaken the immune system. So don’t think that a marathon a day keeps the common cold and flu away.

Eat Immune-Boosting Foods

It should not come as a surprise that eating a well-balanced diet benefits overall health. Supplying the body with a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, healthy fats, protein, fiber, and more can only benefit you. A balanced diet that consists of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and healthy fats can eliminate the need for taking lots of supplements. If you want a few foods that help encourage healthy immune function, consider the following:

• Berries contain flavonoids, which are antioxidant compounds that have demonstrated an ability to reduce respiratory illnesses. 
• Leafy green vegetables offer lots of beneficial antioxidants that are vital to cellular health. 
• Ginger exhibits antioxidant and ant-inflammatory properties that may enhance immune function. 
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons, and limes) contain lots of vitamin C, which supports the production of white blood cells. 
• Fermented foods, kombucha, kefir, natto, yogurt, and miso can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which is linked to immune health. 

Maintain A Healthy Weight

Obesity, which is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more in adults, has been linked to impaired immune function. Obesity may also lower the efficacy of numerous vaccines, including influenza, tetanus, and hepatitis B. If you are looking for safe ways to maintain a healthy weight, start first by assessing your diet. Develop a consistent aerobic exercise routine, watch your caloric intake, get sufficient sleep, and avoid being sedentary. The Full Body Cleanse may be an excellent option to kickstart your weight loss journey. 

Still need a little assistance optimizing immune function? Try the Dherbs Immune Booster Kit, which contains four of our signature formulas that aim to support optimal immune function. These supplements may assist your body in protecting itself from external threats.

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