7 Surprising Habits of People Who Never Get Sick

You’ve heard about eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. But what about the unique habits that could give your immune system an extra edge? Those who rarely get sick tend to adopt some lesser-known practices that might not make the usual list but still have a significant impact on immune function. Here are seven unconventional yet effective habits that could help keep you healthy.

1. Cold Exposure for Immune Resilience

Deliberate cold exposure—whether through cold showers, ice baths, or winter swims—has been shown to boost immune resilience. This practice increases norepinephrine levels, a hormone that helps reduce inflammation. Additionally, exposing your body to the cold can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections.

Tip: Start by ending your warm shower with 30 seconds of cold water and gradually increase the time.

2. Grounding (Earthing) to Reduce Inflammation

Grounding, or direct physical contact with the Earth, is an often-overlooked habit that may reduce inflammation in the body. When your skin touches the ground (walking barefoot on grass, dirt, or sand), electrons are absorbed, which can help neutralize free radicals. Emerging research suggests grounding may positively affect immune function by lowering inflammation levels.

Tip: Spend at least 15-20 minutes each day walking barefoot on natural surfaces, such as grass or sand.

3. Optimizing Circadian Rhythm with Natural Light Exposure

Your circadian rhythm doesn’t just regulate your sleep-wake cycle; it plays a crucial role in immune health. Getting natural sunlight in the morning helps set your body’s internal clock, boosting immune function and improving sleep quality. People who spend most of their time indoors may have a disrupted circadian rhythm, weakening their immune system over time.

Tip: Try to get at least 15 minutes of natural sunlight exposure within an hour of waking up. thing for Respiratory Defense

4. Nasal Breathing for Respiratory Defense

Nasal breathing may sound too simple to be an effective habit, but it’s an essential practice for optimal immune function. The nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs, trapping pathogens and other harmful particles. This natural filtration process can help reduce the likelihood of respiratory infections.

Tip: Make a conscious effort to breathe through your nose, especially during exercise or while resting.

5. Using Functional Mushrooms for Immune Health

Functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, and Reishi are packed with bioactive compounds that help strengthen the immune system. They contain powerful polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, which modulate immune function and promote a balanced response to pathogens. The Genius Brand offers a variety of products to suit different needs: Genius Mushrooms, Genius Lion's Mane, and Turkey Tail, each bringing unique benefits to your daily routine.

• Genius Mushrooms: This blend combines Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi for comprehensive immune and overall health support. Lion’s Mane helps reduce inflammation and supports cognitive function. Cordyceps is known for boosting energy and respiratory health, while Reishi promotes relaxation, reduces stress-related inflammation, and supports immune balance.
• Genius Lion's Mane: For those who prefer a dedicated Lion's Mane supplement, Genius Lion's Mane offers targeted support for cognitive health and immune function. It's ideal for enhancing mental clarity while also helping to reduce inflammation.
• Genius Turkey Tail: A single-ingredient product, Turkey Tail mushroom is well-regarded for its immune-boosting properties. Rich in polysaccharides, Turkey Tail helps regulate the immune response and supports a balanced gut microbiome, essential for strong immunity.

Tip: Choose the Genius mushroom product that best fits your needs, or consider stacking them to create a comprehensive approach to immune support. Whether you need a blend for all-around health, a focus on cognitive enhancement, or targeted immune-boosting with Turkey Tail, these products offer natural ways to strengthen your immune defenses.

6. Eating Fermented Foods to Boost Gut Health

Many are aware that a healthy gut is essential for a robust immune system, but fermented foods can take gut health to the next level. Foods like kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso introduce beneficial bacteria into the digestive system, promoting a balanced gut microbiome. A diverse gut microbiome is linked to stronger immune responses and reduced inflammation.

Tip: Try adding one serving of fermented foods to your daily diet. Start with a small amount to allow your gut to adjust, then gradually increase the quantity. Complement this habit with Turkey Tail mushroom, which has prebiotic properties that help support a healthy gut environment.

7. Intermittent Fasting for Immune Regulation

Intermittent fasting (IF) is more than just a weight management tool. It helps regulate the immune system by triggering autophagy, a process in which the body cleans out damaged cells and regenerates healthier ones. IF can reduce inflammation and improve the body’s ability to respond to pathogens.

Tip: Start with a 12-hour fasting window (e.g., 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.) and gradually extend the duration as your body adapts. 

Conclusion: Adopt These Lesser-Known Habits for Better Immune Health

Incorporating these lesser-known habits into your daily routine can have a significant impact on your immune system. While no one can completely avoid getting sick, adding cold exposure, grounding, or incorporating functional mushrooms can help build resilience and reduce your risk. Start by integrating one or two habits, and expand your routine over time to maximize immune support.

Supporting these practices with high-quality supplements from The Genius Brand can provide the essential nutrients needed for a stronger immune system. Our products, like Genius Mushrooms, Genius Lion's Mane, and Genius Turkey Tail, combine the benefits of these powerful mushrooms to complement these habits and help you maintain peak health.