People are focussing on immunity building like never before as the world fights off one of its worst pandemics. Here are three everyday lifestyle habits advised by the AYUSH Ministry to power your immune system and stave off an infection or illness.

Drink warm water throughout the day

Consuming warm water helps in easy digestion, enhanced blood circulation, weight loss and eases nasal congestion among others.

It is advisable to have two glasses of water at the beginning of the day. Hot water dilates blood vessels in the gut, there by aiding digestion. It also removes ama (toxic remains left undigested in the intestine).

Similarly, a cup of warm water also aids in enhancing the blood circulation. The benefits range from improved blood pressure to decreased risk of heart disease. Consuming water clears the intestines, prevents bloating and removes excess weight.

Practice Yogasana

“Practice Yogasana, Pranayama and meditation for at least 30 minutes daily,” the ministry tweeted. The regular yoga practice appears to correlate with increased well-being, including better sleep, better body awareness, weight loss, and greater happiness. By improving mindfulness, it simultaneously helps to boost confidence, compassion, gratitude, and mental happiness.

Include spices in diet

Include spices like Haldi (Turmeric), Jeera (Cumin), Dhaniya (Coriander) and Lahsun (Garlic) in the diet. For instance, herbal teas made of herbs and spices can aid in digestion, warm the body, calm nerves, help weight loss and so on. Among the spices used in preparation of Ayurvedic teas include cinnamon, clove, cumin seeds, black pepper, cardamom, fennel and nutmeg.

“Our immune system is our first line of defence against outside invaders like bacteria, viruses and toxins. By following (these) simple immunity enhancement and preventive measures…, we can help improve our overall health,” the ministry said in its social media message.