At least half of my patients deal with chronic illness on a daily basis, and it can be profoundly discouraging and debilitating. There are some simple steps I share with them that can greatly help the body’s ability to fight chronic disease and grow stronger, not weaker, in the process:

Massage:  Body massage not only feels good, but it can boost immunity, improve sleep, lessen pain, and elevate mood. And remember, it takes energy to keep a muscle in spasm; massage releases that energy to where it’s helpful.

Homeopathy: Used by billions of people around the world, homeopathy relies on the body’s innate ability to heal when given the right energy “message.” It is gentle to the point of being virtually risk-free, and scientific studies demonstrate its effectiveness in a variety of conditions.

Antioxidant nutrients:  All chronic disease – whether it is cancer, heart disease, or auto-immune conditions – involves the oxidation of tissue and its resulting damage. Our tissues protect against this damage by maintaining adequate levels of antioxidant substances like vitamins A, C, and E; the minerals selenium and zinc; and accessory nutrients n-acetyl-cysteine and alpha lipoic acid. Supplementing these nutrients helps combat the ravages of chronic illness.

Movement:  There are almost no conditions in which movement is contra-indicated. Exercise regularly if you are able; if not, then a simple daily walk helps. And if you can’t walk, then seated exercises or even movement in bed has tremendous physiological benefits. Even the simplest movement brings blood and energy to the tissues, oxygenates us, lifts our spirits.

Colorful fruits and vegetables:  Bright colors and tasty flavors result from powerful substances called flavonoids. These substances improve circulation and function of our body tissues. Some, like lycopene from tomatoes, have anti-cancer properties. Others, like hawthorne berry, have been shown to improve heart function. There are hundreds of flavonoids in foods, and these “medicines” are in your salad bowl.

Acupressure:  Acupuncture needles are very slender and rarely painful. However, some people do better with acupressure (also derived from Chinese medicine) which uses finger pressure to move Qi and promote healing. In the hands of a skilled acupressurist or Shiatzu practitioner, this is a safe, non-invasive, and powerful treatment option for problems resulting from chronic illness.

Breathing:  Yes, we all breathe without thinking. But all too often, we fail to breathe deeply and effectively, depriving our bodies of fresh oxygen. Anxiety or pain can limit our chest motion. Trying to breathe slowly, deeply, and fully can increase energy, oxygen, and vitality.

Yoga:  For centuries, yoga has been an integral part of Ayurveda, the native healing system of India. Not all yoga practice involves twisting yourself into knots, like you see in the yoga magazines. Simple yoga postures are doable by nearly everyone, and are in some ways just as effective.

Adaptogenic herbs:  Certain herbs have been studied for their ability to make the body more resilient, and able to handle stress more effectively. These herbs are called adaptogens; commonly-studied ones include eleutherococcus (Siberian ginseng), rhodiola, and astragalus. They’re known for their safety, but should always be taken under the advice of a physician.

Welcome others’ support:  Going it alone is never a good way to cope with chronic disease, and can lead to feeling depressed and isolated. In this age of social networking, there are more ways than ever to feel connected, share stories, and get answers. Having the support of others is a powerful antidote to the worst effects of illness, and is associated with increased life expectancy.