Covid update and how to improve your immunity

Covid Update

So how are you all doing?  It’s been a tough January that’s for sure and I’m disappointed to report that the Just Be Clinic will remain closed for now.  I won’t give a reopening date as it’s so unpredictable at the moment but suspect it won’t be during February.  Those of you with appointments for February will have received a cancellation email by now.

I hope you are all coping and have things to keep you occupied.  Thank you to those that have kept in touch.  I know some have been unwell but thankfully you have pulled through.  Remember, I’m here at the end of the phone of email if you need anything.

I signed up for an online course in Face Reflexology and will be adding this wonderful treatment to the Just Be Clinic once I qualify.  I also did a webinar with Prof. Luck O’Neill about the Covid vaccine, organised by the Irish Reflexologist’s Institute, to hear first hand the facts about the vaccines coming to the market and here are some of the highlights:

• there are 40 vaccines currently under development and each will improve with time and protect us from all variants of the covid virus
• It is ok to take the vaccine if you are on immune suppressants as the covid vaccine is not a live vaccine
• If pregnant and called for the vaccine, chat with your GP before deciding on what to do.  Pregnant women that have taken the vaccine did not have side effects
• If you suffer from allergies, you will be monitored for 30 minutes after the vaccine is administered for any side effects.
• Vaccine benefits far outweigh any minimal risk of side effects

How to support your Immune System 

As an Immunologist, Prof. O’Neill also highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy immune system.  Here are his top tips:

• STRESS is a big negative on the immune system.  Avoid stress where possible and do everything to relax the body, mind and spirit.  Normally I would help here but remember to practice mindfulness, breath, take a bath, read a book, anything you love to do to help relax.
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Take a Vitamin D supplement in winter
• Iron is required to absorb vaccines, so if required take an iron supplement (check with your GP).
• Exercise – walk outside at least 15 minutes a day
• Good sleep – even 1 bad night’s sleep can reduce your white blood cells by 50%  I’ve also attached some research to show how massage can boost white blood cells by up to 70%.  Again, something to look forward to when I reopen.

For now stay well and stay safe
Yvonne