By Kreg Weiss, B HKin • January 4th, 2008

*Stimulate the Thymus Gland
The thymus gland is located behind the chest bone (sternum) in the upper portion of the chest. Its' primary function is the production of peptide hormones which appears to be essential for the normal development of T lymphocytes (T cells) and the immune system. The thymus gland is proportionally large in infants and children, but diminishes in size and effectiveness throughout adulthood.

One can stimulate the thymus gland and its' function with a gentle exercise: daily, tap repeatedly on the center of the chest bone for a few minutes. The vibrations of the tapping reach through into the thymus tissues.

*Improve Circulation and Oxygen Flow with Regular Exercise
Moderate exercise (ie brisk walking for 30-60 minutes) daily will improve function and flow of the circulatory and lymphatic system, thus helping provide oxygen and nutrients for immune system organs and cells. Improving oxygen flow creates better transfer of ener

gy from nutrients to cells. Take note: studies have shown that excessive amounts of exercise can decrease immune function as the overloading of tissues from exercise strips the immune system of energy. This energy is taken from the immune system to repair overloaded/strained tissues and to aid in post-exercise recovery.

Other Useful Tips:

*Rest When Symptoms of Colds or Flus Appear
Avoid exercise and heavy workloads as well as make extra efforts to reduce stress. During the pre-stages of colds and flus, the immune system requires extra energy to produce immune agents to combat viruses. Exercise and stress take valuable energy away from the immune system.

*Stress Reduction
Stress has been shown to weaken the immune system. Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques reduce and eliminate stress.

*Natural Antibacterials and Immune Boosters
Finely chopped or grated FRESH garlic produces a natural antibacterial agent. Garlic that has pre-chopped will not have the same effect as this antibacterial agent has been shown to be present only when garlic is freshly cut.

Stimulate the immune system with various natural remedies: mistletoe extract, ginseng, Echinacea, wild indigo, thuja, oil of oregano, and chamomile. Consult a local naturopath/health food professional for recommendations on application and dosage.

*Wash Your Hands
The transmission of many bacteria and viruses are through touch. By washing your hands frequently, you significantly reduce your chances of having harmful organisms moving into the body. Also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when outside of the home and when others in the home are dealing with a cold or flu.

Nourish your immune system with a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper rest, and stress reduction methods. Explore, with qualified guidance, additional natural remedies that can strengthen the immune system. Respect that your immune system requires a proper flow of oxygen and energy to maintain its' ability to defend against unwanted external agents.

Kreg Weiss is a co-founder of My Yoga Online and certified Hatha Yoga Teacher. Several years ago, Kreg discovered yoga while teaching health and fitness. Yoga dramatically transformed Kreg's approach to teaching health and wellness as well as changed his personal life bringing new direction in finding physical, mental, and spiritual growth.

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Location:  Montreal, CA

Kreg is a co-founder of My Yoga Online and certified Hatha Yoga Teacher. Several years ago, Kreg discovered yoga while teaching health and fitness. Yoga dramatically transformed Kreg's approach to teaching health and...