A holistic approach is the best way to deal with the anxiety or panic that can arise now that so much is uncertain. Keep in mind that these ten tips are not intended to cure any kind of illness or prevent the virus. With regard to the virus, we urge you to follow the Public Health Authority’s advice and stay up-to-date on the rapidly changing situation that now prevails.

Dr. Sangeeta’s advice below will help you stay calm, grounded and healthy and support your immune system.

Reduce stress and anxiety that comes from uncertainty by practicing pranayama. Pranayama is a collective name for various yogic breathing techniques. For example, try alternate nostril breathing – in English alternate nostril breathing and in Sanskrit Nadi Shodana. Take walks in nature where you try to be consciously present. Meditate, or just sit with yourself and observe your thoughts for a moment of inner reflection.

Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. Both too little sleep and too much sleep are very bad for health and the immune system. Create a good routine around sleep and be disciplined. Don’t go to bed later than 10.30pm and try to get up before 6am.

Late winter and early spring is the period when our kapha qualities increase, sometimes so much that it has consequences such as colds, coughs or allergies. It is therefore good to eat kapha-balancing food during this period – preferably warm and light food, avoid cold, heavy, frozen and fatty food. Reduce the intake of red meat and wheat. Eat less sweet and use more spices.

The best herbs to boost your immune system are amalaki, tulsi and guduchi. Amalaki is prepared with plenty of vitamin C and is a natural antioxidant that helps you restore your immune system. Tulsi supports the respiratory tract, provides increased mental clarity and contributes to a feeling of peace and tranquility. Tulsi tea is available in various combinations, for example with turmeric and ginger. Guduchi supports the function of the liver and helps the body get rid of toxins and strengthens the immune system. These herbs can now be bought in well-stocked grocery stores, health food stores or on the internet.

Nasal irrigation with warm salt water using a neti pot is recommended. This clears the nasal passages of excess mucus/snot, allergens and pollen. Do this every morning before breakfast. This is something that can be strongly recommended for anyone who has problems with pollen.

Dripping medicated oil into the nasal passages is called nasya and is preferably done in the morning after rinsing the nose to prevent colds and allergies. Nasya counteracts dryness in the nasal passages, nasal congestion and headaches. It contributes to increased mental clarity and improves the sense of smell.

If you have pain or irritation in your throat, you can gargle with a mixture made of a cup of warm water, a pinch of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon of Himalayan salt.

Treat yourself to a detoxifying Ayurvedic herbal massage called Udwartana if you can find it where you live. You can also give yourself daily self-massage with silk gloves, which helps circulation in the lymphatic system. You can finish with an oil massage to take care of your dry skin.