Improving the Immune System, a Psychological Approach
by Dr. Elior Kinarthy
The natural immune system has two main functions.
Instant response against bacteria and foreign organisms that invade the body through breath, pores, and cuts in the skin that needs immediate protection.
Systemic: Specific protection against viruses and slow growing illnesses that may need prolonged attention to a chronic condition.
Many psychological conditions can reduce the effectiveness of these two natural immune systems, but one tendency is prominent in prolonging illnesses and delaying the immune system response: Repetition of indecisive behaviours, thoughts, and feelings.
Most repetitive behaviours are normal, it is part of being a professional and repeating a task provides a consistency of care such as with doctors, nurses, teachers, computer operators, etc. There are many repeated and normal behaviours within professions, occupations, marriage, and social interactions. These behaviours do not compromise the immune system.
Many people have stress in their significant relationships and can have difficulty acquiring enough wealth to pay their bills. Behaviours that are repeated as a function of fear, anger, stress, and anxiety have often originated with indecisiveness and can become clinical. The clinical categories that can cause immune reduction and even immune suppression, are part of the diagnosis of neuroticism. Any form of repetitive behaviours from neuroticism to obsessive compulsive disorders can lead to a constant state of nerve vibrations in your physical body. These vibrations can affect cells and organs with tissue agitation, manifested to speech agitation, nervous tics, and many other physical symptoms.
We all meet individuals that we think are very nervous and anxious but be careful about your judgment, because in most instances this will not lead to immune system degradation. If you suspect that someone you know is very anxious with no friends or family relationships and is not working or volunteering, they may soon be physically ill as the immune system has probably been compromised.
The good news is that treatment options are many, but some methods are less effective than others. One option is to do research and find a good book and develop the intentionality to reduce stress. A healthy diet is a good choice, the goal is to return your immunity response to the level of functioning to when you were years younger. Consulting with holistic doctors and alternative practitioners is another good option. Behavioural counselling with meditation and breathing exercises can also help. It can be a challenge to find the best treatment that fits your lifestyle and values. Improving the immune system is a worthy candidate for your energy and effort and a goal for the new year ahead.
L'shana tova!
To a good year!