“Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” — Tori Amos

Healing on many levels is about accepting change. So the question goes, “Are you willing to change?”

If you are willing, then you can create the healing you say you want. All you have to do is change some thoughts and release some beliefs. It sounds simple. However, it’s not always that easy.

Two tools to help on this path of healing and change are meditation and prayer. Some use these terms separately. Some use them as one. It doesn’t matter. Do whichever or both as you feel comfortable.

Meditation and/or prayer is best done daily. Find a quiet time of the day where you can find comfortable (but not too comfortable… no falling asleep!) place to relax and separate from you daily thoughts and stresses. There are many different methods to meditate or pray, but at the core of each is the goal to focus and eventually quiet your mind.

In this place of quiet, it is important to realize that the subconscious mind accepts whatever we choose to believe. Joyous self-acceptance and approval in this state of mind are the keys to positive change in every area of your life. Including your health.

Give your immune system a boost with these simple tips:

Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables – The vitamins (especially A and C) and the phytochemicals that lend fruits and vegetables their colors serve as antioxidants that promote immune function.

Choose lean protein sources – The amino acids that are found in protein form the building blocks of all the body’s cells — including the cells that power your immune system.

Focus on healthful fats – High-fat diets appear to impair the immune system by decreasing the function of T-lymphocytes. Reducing fat, on the other hand, can boost immune function by enhancing T-lymphocyte function. However, the type of fat you consume is equally important as the amount. Trans fats (found in margarines and many commercial baked goods) can contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation in the body.

Make time for tea – Green tea is a rich source of a type of antioxidant called a catechin, and preliminary research has found that a specific catechin — epigallocatechin gallate (egcg) — may give the beverage antigen-fighting abilities.

Take the one supplement that works – A whole food supplement is well worth taking.

Consume friendly bacteria – A yogurt or kefir drink per day might help keep infections at bay.

Exercise – The immune system’s cells don’t function normally when a person is overweight or has high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Maintain a proper energy balance – Practice energy link healing daily on yourself along with daily meditation.