In the wake of COVID-19, several schools and colleges were shut to contain the spread of the virus. However, with the ensuing decline in the number of cases and increased vaccination throughout the country, now the schools have started to open again.
Even though the schools are taking all the necessary precautions for the safety of the children, parents are still concerned about sending their kids back to school. They want to ensure that their kids are safe and prepared for any health risks.
Therefore, now, more than ever, we need the help of Ayurveda to build immunity in kids through natural and holistic means. There are many Ayurvedic tips, practices and herbs that can enhance the immunity of the kids and improve their overall health. Let’s know some of these excellent Ayurvedic tips in detail.
Ayurvedic Tips to Boost Immunity and Keep Children Safe
- Abhyanga
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic practice that involves self-massage of the body with warm oils. It helps nourish the tissues and boost the functioning of the immune system. All you have to do is warm some sesame oil and rub it on your little one’s body for 10-15 minutes.
Abhyanga must be done at least three times a week to increase the cytotoxic capacity of the immune system and reduce the number of T-cells in the body.
- Snana
Ayurveda recommends giving Snana or warm water baths to kids every day in the morning and evening to improve the level of cell regeneration in their bodies. Snana also helps stimulate the lymphatic system, enhance white blood cells production, remove surface bacteria and prevent infections.
- Yoga and Pranayama
Make it a habit for your kids to practise Yoga and Pranayama every day. It helps to boost their immune system by synchronising their bodies and minds. Some of the best Yoga Asanas to stimulate their thymus glands and reduce the circulating pro-inflammatory modulators like cytokine are Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) and Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose). Pranayamas are also essential as they help increase the circulation of oxygenated blood to various organs of the body.
- Adequate Sleep
In Ayurveda, Nidra or sleep is one of the most important factors for enhancing immunity. Sleep deprivation can suppress the functioning of the immune system and increase the risk of infection in children. Therefore, make sure your kids sleep for 8-10 hours every day to rejuvenate their bodies and improve their health.
- A Balanced and Nutritious Diet
Serve your children a balanced and warm meal full of leafy green vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains. Use digestive spices like garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and fennel to further boost their immunity. Also, include immune-strengthening foods such as jaggery, ghee and dry fruits. Antioxidants-rich herbal decoctions such as turmeric milk, Tulsi tea, etc., also help keep children safe.
- A Healthy Lifestyle
Always staying indoors can adversely affect the immunity of children. Therefore, make sure that your kids are physically active for at least one hour a day. They should also spend some time in sunlight every day to stimulate their pineal glands and keep their immune system b.
- Swarnaprashana
Swarnaprashana, also known as Ayurvedic immunisation, is an ancient Ayurvedic practice in which gold ash mixed with honey and medicated ghee is administered every month on Pushya Nakshatra. According to Ayurveda, this practice helps to enhance immunity and increase psychological and physical development in children up to 16 years of age.
- Ayurvedic Herbs
Many Ayurvedic herbs such as Guduchi, Amalaki, Yashtimadhu, Draksha and Shatavari help to improve immunity and keep the children safe. They are excellent sources of antioxidants that help prevent free radical damage and build immunity in the body.
On a Final Note
Ayurveda has mentioned many practices and measures to boost immunity and improve health in children. As kids go back to school, these Ayurvedic tips will help prevent the risk of Covid-19 infection and keep them safe to grow and thrive in the world.
