Q&A: Are there self help holds for viral infections?

Answer: A viral infection is what causes a cold or flu, and more serious illnesses like mononucleosis (kissing disease or glandular fever), hepatitis, and even AIDS. Just a note on the difference between viral and bacterial infections.

A virus is smaller than a bacterium and needs a living host to stay alive and reproduce, while bacteria can survive on inanimate objects like door handles and counter tops, which then become contaminated.

Usually the form of treatment for bacterial infections is to prescribe antibiotics (although, the overuse of antibiotics has caused problems because bacteria become resistant to them and then they don't work, but that is another story). Bacteria can gain entry into the body via food and water, cuts and contaminated objects.

A virus usually involves the respiratory system, i.e. entry via nose, mouth and throat. But this is something that not everyone knows - also through the eyes!

The most important way to prevent viral infections or reduce their impact is to ensure that we have a strong and healthy immune system. The immune system is one of the most wonderful systems of our body. Eating a varied, healthy diet, as well as drinking water regularly, is good common sense. Getting enough rest and sleep, and exercising moderately also helps manage stress levels (a 30 minute walk every day if you can is good practice). Laugh a lot as well! Laughter and happiness boost your immune system.

In terms of self help holds, there are several things we can do to stimulate the immune system. Below are three of my favourite exercises:

1. The Immune Boosting Hold: For the right flow, place the left hand over the right shoulder and right hand on right groin. Do for 20 minutes minimum. For the left flow, place the right hand over the left shoulder and left hand on left groin. My experience with this is that if I have a sore throat (beginnings of a cold) and I do this hold I can get rid of the sore throat in minutes and the cold will not materialize! See the immune boosting hold diagram

2. General Revitalising Exercise: This is a very powerful sequence of holds which help stimulate the immune system, helps the digestive system, helps regulate our temperature, regenerates and calms. Do it for at least 20 minutes (every day) and you'll feel like brand new. Known also as the 'Spleen Flow' (the spleen is the biggest lymphatic organ in the body and is very important for the proper functioning of the immune system. To do the left side just change left for right and right for left everywhere, so 'left hand on left inside of heel'
GENERAL ENERGY REVITALISING FLOW
(Right energy pattern)
Step 1
Place Left hand on base of spine (coccyx)
Place Right hand on right inside of heel
Step 2
Move Right hand and place on left base of rib cage and hold
Step 3
Move Left hand and place on right above breast area
Step 4
Move Left hand and place on left center of collar bone

3. Check out the Main Central Source of Life exercise. Very powerful for helping everything.

And of course, it makes sense that if you don't feel well and symptoms persist that you seek medical advice!