Did you know that constant infections and illness might be an indication that your immune system is low? Sometimes such conditions may worsen during winter. Ayurvedic drinks are preferred for boosting your immunity naturally. Moreover, they can be made from the comfort of your home. In this article, I will share with you my all-time favorite immune-boosting ayurvedic drinks recipes.

Kadha, Home Remedy for Cold

1. 3 cups of water
2. sweetener (optional)
3. 1 tablespoon each of the following herbs finely ground or coarsely crushed:

• black pepper
• cinnamon
• cardamom
• dried ginger

In a hot pan, dry roast the herb mixture for 30 seconds or until they release their natural aroma. Add water and let the content boil for 5 minutes to allow the ingredients to infuse well. Switch off the heat, strain the drink, and serve. The drink can be enjoyed without sugar but if you have a sweet tooth, go ahead and add the sweetener you prefer. For maximum effect, sip this ayurvedic drink while still piping hot.

The Benefits

Cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger contain anti-inflammatory properties, while black pepper and cinnamon act as an expectorant. Boiling them in water facilitates herb infusion. These ingredients are geared towards fighting cough and cold and are soothing to the throat.

Minty Fresh Infusion

• 4-5 lemongrass stalks (6 inches long)
• 5-6 holy basil leaves
• 5-6 fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup of water
• Brown sugar or sea salt (your preference)

Bring the water to boil. Add brown sugar or sea salt to taste. Meanwhile, roughly chop the lemongrass, basil leaves, and mint and add them in a mug. Pour the boiling seasoned water into the mug and cover tightly. Let it seep for 5 to 7 minutes before you strain and drink.

The Benefits

This drink is ideal for people with respiratory ailments including asthma and the common cold. Lemongrass, basil, and mint combine to boost immunity and heal the respiratory system, by balancing all three Doshas. In addition, holy basil helps to balance your Satva Guna and strengthens your Prana thereby relieving you from mood swings. The Pitta types will benefit most from this recipe.

Hot Rice Water

• 200 ml of water
• 10 g rice
• a pinch of ginger powder
• 1 kernel of long pepper
• 2 kernel of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of Sesame oil
• A pinch of asafetida
• A pinch of rock salt

In a medium pot, heat the sesame oil under medium to low flame. Meanwhile, use a mortar and pestle to crush both peppers. Add the crushed peppers, ginger, and asafetida to the hot oil and sauté for two 2 minutes.

Now rinse your rice with clean water and add to the pot. Sauté for a minute before adding water. Cover the pot and simmer under low heat until the rice is cooked.

Now switch off the heat and add the rock salt. Allow the drink to sit in the pot for a couple of minutes then use a cheesecloth to strain and collect the clear liquid in a glass. 

The Benefits

Pepper and ginger pacify Kapha while providing warmth to your body. On the other hand, Asafetida and rock salt balance the flow of Vata. Taking this drink during winter will keep you warm and energetic.

These three immune-boosting ayurvedic drinks help to improve your immunity naturally and balance moods.

Vishnu mudra, also known as “Universal Balance Gesture“, represents Lord Vishnu, who maintains the illusion of the manifested universe. The subordinated to Vishnu universe unfolds from the primordial unity as an endless interaction of opposites: creation and destruction, feminine and masculine, darkness and light. Combining these polarities through yogic wisdom is the highest level of understanding of the essence of things. And Vishnu mudra can help us with this!

In this article, I will share with you what Vishnu mudra is, what are its benefits and how to perform it correctly.

What Is Mudra?

“Mudra” can be translated as “seal”, “mark”, or “gesture”. Hence Mudras are symbolic gestures practiced with the hands and fingers.

Connecting the fingers in certain combinations, we can activate the meridians and direct energy throughout the body. Different positions of the fingers have the ability to close or clear the energy channels. In addition, performing this or that mudra, we affect the biologically active points of the palms and fingers.

Mudras are invented for the correct redirection of energy in the body, for the control of prana and for changing the psycho-emotional state. Also, with their help, you can eliminate problems in the body and in the mind by pressing on particular acupuncture points.

Vishnu Mudra

In Indian mythology, Vishnu is the protector of the world. He is a Hindu deity whose mission is to protect humans and to keep the Universe in balance. Thus balance and harmony should be our main focus when we are practicing Vishnu mudra.

This mudra helps us to attain balance through the activation of the energies of the first three chakras: Muladhara, Svadhisthana, and Manipura. We activate Muladhara chakra for grounding and stability. Svadisthana activation brings us enjoyment and harmonious relationships. When we activate Manipura chakra we open up our inner power and inner fire.

Vishnu Mudra Benefits:

• Brings balance and peace;
• Detoxifies the body;
• Boosts immunity;
• Reduces stress and anxiety;
• Calms the nervous system;
• Balances hormones;
• Brings balance to the right and left hemispheres of the brain;
• Supports respiratory health;
• Infuses the body with oxygen;
• Cleanses lungs;
• Encourages mental clarity and focus;
• Increases the positive effect of pranayama if performed with it.

How to Practice Vishnu Mudra?

1. Come into a comfortable seated position.
2. Breathe easily and focus on your breath.
3. Keep your spine straight.
4. Place your hands on the thighs or knees with palms facing upwards.
5. Raise the right hand with the elbow bent.
6. Curl the forefinger and middle finger in towards the palm of the hand. Allow your thumb, ring and little finger to extend.

This mudra can be performed during pranayama practice – specifically, Nadi Shodana (alternate nostril breathing).

How Does It Work?

When the fingers of our hands are connected in a certain mudra, we are in connection with the power of the cosmos and the energy of the Universe. Each of our fingers is a symbol of connection with a certain planet and life-creating elements.

Each finger of the hand corresponds to certain energy. And each phalanx of each finger is responsible for a specific part of the body.

In addition, each finger is connected with different parts of the body and internal organs. By performing mudras with your hands, you definitely stimulate those parts of the body and organs that are directly connected to the energy channels that pass through the palms and fingers.

The thumb symbolizes the Fire element and is linked to the Manipura chakra.

The ring finger represents the Earth element and is linked to the Muladhara chakra.

The pinkie is associated with the Water element and is linked to the Svadisthana chakra.

By extending these fingers you are encouraging the flow of energy to the corresponding elements within you. The other fingers bow down to allow space for these to expand and flourish.

Additional Recommendations

• It is best to practice Vishnu mudra on an empty stomach. Early morning before breakfast is a perfect time for this practice.
• Start with practicing this mudra for 5 minutes a day. Then gradually increase the time. But keep in mind that a maximum duration for this mudra is 15-20 minutes.
• Make sure your breath is smooth and full. You should be relaxed and focused on your breath while practicing this mudra.

In Ayurveda, there is a whole section dedicated to strengthening the immune system. And it is not about how to treat and remove the symptoms of a particular disease, but about how to prevent the weakening of the physical health of the body. And even though we live in the era of technological progress and advanced medicine it can still be very useful to apply the tips of ancient teaching. In this article, we will share with you 10 ayurvedic tips on how to boost your immune system, which is especially important in connection with the widespread of coronavirus.

Immunity and Ayurveda

According to Ayurvedic teachings, the source of immunity is the subtle essence of all body tissues called ‘Ojas‘. It is vital energy, concentrated in the Heart chakra. Ojas controls all the functions of the body and if it is depleted, the entire body suffers. It is a subtle substance that nourishes and unites the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies. If it is depleted, the immune system is reduced, and we can get sick.

Thus, the immune system is reduced not only because of the weakening of the physical body but also because of the weakening of the emotional, mental and spiritual spheres of our lives. That is why ignorance, negative thoughts, fears and worries negatively affect the Ojas and lead to a decrease in the body’s resistance to various diseases. Also, our lifestyle can reduce Ojas. Improper sleep and nutrition, accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body, reduced Agni (digestive fire).

Thus, from the Ayurvedic point of view, in addition to physical immunity, we also should take care of our spiritual and psychological immunity. Therefore improper lifestyle, negative emotions, and bad attitude lead to a decrease in the body’s protective functions. That is why focusing just on a physical aspect is not enough.

Ayurveda also believes that poor immunity is the result of aggressive actions towards others in the past or current life. If we committed aggression against someone, we attract aggression against us. And this aggression can be expressed as flu, viruses, and other respiratory diseases.

In this regard, it is very helpful to perform spiritual practices, since they purify us and raise our vibrations. Radiating love and peace increases immunity.

Now is the time to dive deeper into Ayurvedic tips on how to boost your immune system.

10 Ayurvedic Tips On How to Boost Your Immune System

1. Eat well

In order to boost our immunity, we need to strengthen Agni. We can strengthen Agni by minimizing stimulants, refined sugars, and processed foods. Instead, emphasize healthy, whole foods. Make sure you eat with mindfulness and maintain a regular eating schedule and when necessary.

Recommended food:

• Light food prepared with a minimum amount of water;
• Give preference to spicy, bitter and astringent food;
• When cooking, don’t forget to add spices;
• Eat wheat, barley, and millet porridge.

What to avoid:

• Heavy meal;
• Cold food;
• Fatty food;
• Sweet and sour food.

It is important not only what you eat, but also how the process of eating is organized. Pay attention to these Ayurvedic tips:

• Sit down at the table in a state of peace of mind. No background sound around and unnecessary fuss.
• Chew food slowly.
• Enjoy the taste of food, inhale its pleasant aroma.

2. Do not overeat

According to Ayurveda, our digestion is directly related to immunity. So keep track of exactly how much you eat for lunch and dinner. No matter what kind of food we are talking about, you can not overeat!

If you have never restricted yourself in food portions, reduce the usual amount of food by at least a quarter. Ayurveda recommends that you leave your stomach empty after dinner – this will free up “space” for faster digestion of the food received.

Ayurveda teaches that the largest portion of food should be eaten at lunchtime. It is during this period that our body is most active and releases significantly more digestive enzymes for fast digestion. And if you eat a lot before going to bed, when the body is already preparing for the upcoming night’s rest, you will have problems with sleep and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach.

3. Minimize stress

Stress hormones suppress the immune system. By reducing the number of stressful situations, you maintain the balance of Ojas, and thus strengthen the immune system!

For overcoming stress Ayurveda suggests including meditation, yoga, and aromatherapy in your daily routine.

4. Prioritize Balanced Sleep

With balanced sleep, the body works as it should – cells and tissues regenerate and you wake up in a good mood. Lack of sleep weakens the immune system. A constant lack of sleep can provoke the development of certain diseases, such as diabetes, depression, obesity, hypertension, etc. Therefore it is very important to have a good night’s rest.

5. Use essential oils

Essential oils have a beneficial effect not only on the psycho-emotional but also on the physiological state.

Ayurveda recommends us to use peppermint, lavender, tea tree, thyme, and eucalyptus essential oils for boosting the immune system.

The easiest thing you can do is to regularly light an essential oil burner with one of the essential oils for immunity. It fills the room with pleasant scents that will help strengthen the immune system.

Other ways to use essential oils are massages, baths, and rubbing a mixture of base and essential oils into the skin.

6. Meditate

Regular meditation practice helps to relieve stress — this primarily affects the strengthening of the immune system. For maximum benefit, meditate twice a day for 20-30 minutes – in the morning and before going to bed.

To learn more about meditation read our article “Meditations For Beginners: Best Ways To Start Your Practice”.

7. Practice yoga

Yoga is a great way to boost your immune system and reduce stress levels. It moves prana in the body, helps to dissipate tension, clears stagnation, and encourages fluidity throughout the tissues, the subtle body, and the mental and emotional spheres. No wonder people who have been practicing yoga for more than a year are less likely to get sick.

8. Drink ginger tea throughout the day

Ginger is known in Ayurveda as a universal remedy for the prevention and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and strengthening the immune system. Ginger improves the functioning of the digestive system.

To make ginger tea is simple. Just pour a glass of boiling water 1 tsp of crushed ginger root, let it brew.

9. Use herbs

Each ayurvedic herb has its own unique power that can help your body stay healthy. Herbs should be added to the diet not only when you are already sick but also for the prevention of the disease.

There are five herbs that are popular in Ayurvedic practice and that can be introduced into your diet.

#1 Basil

It is considered a sacred plant in India. It is often grown in local temples for the treatment of respiratory diseases (as an antitussive). The pleasant aroma of the plant reduces stress levels.

Make sure you use lots of basil when cooking!

#2 Indian gooseberry (Amla)

It contains ascorbic acid. This berry not only strengthens the immune system, but also normalizes the digestive processes, and helps the body absorb nutrients from food better.

Indian gooseberries are often added to Ayurvedic detox diets.

#3 Cardamom

In Ayurveda, it is believed that cardamom relieves tension and helps to relax.

#4 Turmeric

According to ancient Indian teachings, turmeric has lots of benefits:

• Turmeric is rich in antioxidant compounds, which block free radicals. In other words, the compounds stimulate your body defenses.
• It fights off coughs and colds, especially on those cold winter nights.
• Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that fight against arthritis.
• It will boost your immune system even when down with a sickness.

Golden milk latte is a perfect way to include turmeric in your immune-boosting diet!

#5 Cumin

It is believed that cumin will help improve digestion and speed up metabolism. According to Ayurveda, the plant promotes the absorption of nutrients that you consume with food.

10. Perform Ayurvedic cleanse

Those toxins accumulated in your body from undigested food often cause a weakening of the immune system. In a “cluttered” body, it is much easier for pathogenic bacteria to develop. Therefore it is very important to do ayurvedic cleanse in order to boost your immune system. To learn how to do it, read our article “9 Ayurvedic Detox Tips to Cleanse Your Body“.

The Bottom Line

Unfortunately, many people are still looking for a “magic pill” and other easy ways to improve their health: they abuse antibiotics even as prevention, use antibacterial soap and drink synthetic drugs, believing in their “wonderful power” without consequences. The role of these “tools” for prevention is so ambiguous that they are more likely to cause concern.

The above suggestions are natural holistic ways to help you to boost your immune system. However, during an epidemic of diseases, it is sometimes wise to give up group yoga classes, where the risk of getting infected or infecting others is higher, and stay at home and practice yoga at home through online resources.

We are wishing you to stay healthy during this flu season!