If you are traveling on a plane for the holidays, there are a few ways to keep your immune system in tip-top shape. Plane travel this time of the year is crowded with passengers all breathing the same recycled, dry, and germ-filled air. Taking appropriate precautions can make your holiday all the merrier!
1. Don’t forget to hydrate.
2. Travel with hand sanitizer and don’t be afraid to use it. For instance, those tray tables on planes are full of bacteria that can make you sick.
3. I highly recommend a few immune boosting supplements such as: Gan Mao Ling (a Chinese formula to boost the immune system), grapefruit seed extract (I prefer the liquid, but the bitter taste can be a bit much for many so pill form is also available), and Kick It Immune by WishGarden herbs (a Kid’s Kick It Immune is also available).
4. A broad spectrum probiotic can strengthen your gut, which is linked to the immune system. Taking a probiotic before, during, and after travel is always a good idea.
5. Take your Vitamin C.
6. Essential oils such as lemon, eucalyptus, bergamot, lavender, peppermint, and thieves oil can all benefit the immune system.
7. Make sure to get plenty of sleep a couple days before you are set to travel. Logging the appropriate zzz’s can do wonders for strengthening your immune system.
8. Pack healthy snacks. Being prepared with good food choices can make a big difference and prevent those unhealthy last-minute food decisions.
9. Exercise regularly to keep your immune system also in shape.
10. Bring extra items such as a scarf, socks, and a long sleeve shirt, jacket or sweater to protect your body from potential cold blasts of air. This can both bolster the immune system and prevent a sore and achy neck and body.
Wishing you a healthy and happy holiday travel!
Contributor:
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.
