SIMPLE WAYS TO KILL GERMS
SIMPLE WAYS TO KILL GERMS
Did you know there are a few simple and very effective ways to kill germs? Primarily I’m referring to germs we pick up on our skin. Back in 2020, when we were all dealing with the global pandemic, I discovered a secret--I quickly realized I didn’t need to carry a package of wipes everywhere I went. Or keep a huge bottle of sanitizer in my car or on my kitchen countertop! I just never felt the need. Mostly it’s because I’m always a bit leery of chemicals and artificial products. But more so, it’s because I’ve always believed simple is best. And whatever is closest to nature. Since those days, I’ve been committed to using extremely simple methods to kill germs that barely cost a dime. May I share?
RUBBING YOUR HANDS TOGETHER DOES WHAT?
In the photo above, you will see a very effective germ-killing method. Did you know that vigorously rubbing your hands together for 15 seconds does the trick, especially if you don’t have access to sanitizer, or soap and water? The friction itself actually kills germs. I learned this from my baby's nurse many years ago. I was amazed at that and didn’t quite believe it at first. It’s just too simple! But it’s true. Since then, I’ve run across the information several times. It’s been a very handy thing to remember. (Unintended pun:)
WASHING YOUR HANDS KILLS GERMS
Another simple way to kill germs is, of course, heeding the frequent admonition, “Wash Your Hands.” We really can’t beat this sound, old-fashioned advice. As we have discussed already, rubbing our hands together itself will kill germs. Then when we add soap to the action and rinse it away with water, our hands are thoroughly sanitized. Once it all goes down the drain, the germs go with it, leaving our hands clean and germ-free. To confirm this, years ago on a family cruise, a stomach bug infected some of the crew and guests on the ship. Our captain admonished everyone to wash our hands with soap and water rather than use sanitizer. It’s just a safer and more effective way to get them clean.
WHAT'S THE BEST GERM-KLLING SOAP?
If you’re wondering what kind of soap to use, virtually any basic soap will suffice. The purer the better, like Ivory or Castile soap. I don’t recommend “antibacterial” because some of those chemical ingredients can be harmful. In fact, I believe we can be “too clean”. (More on that below.) As I’ve mentioned, the simple act of rubbing your hands together is “anti-bacterial”. Thus, the soap is just an added benefit—redundant really. But you’re probably like me—who doesn’t want nice-smelling hands after they’ve washed them? Especially if the soap has lotion and essential oils in it. Always an added pleasure for us as women!
A STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM IS THE BEST DEFENSE AGAINST GERMS
As I mentioned, sometimes we can be “too clean”. In other words, we can be so concerned about killing every possible germ that we go overboard with it. I believe everyone needs to get a little dirt under their fingernails from time to time. Even children--it won’t hurt them and is in fact, to my knowledge, rather beneficial. All things considered, I believe the greatest defense against germs, disease, and infection is to build a strong immune system. Starting with a clean healthy diet, free from processed food and sugar, however feasible. Taking high-quality supplements and engaging in simple everyday activities such as walking outside in sunshine and fresh air is also wise. Additionally, getting enough nightly sleep, and periodic times of rest greatly contributes to overall health. Granted, this can all be very challenging to maintain but every attempt we make to promote good health is well worth it!
THE FEAR OF GOD IS THE GREATEST METHOD
Above all else, I believe the best way to boost our immune systems so that we can resist harmful germs and disease, is to have a healthy fear of God. By this I mean having a hefty respect, a godly fear of God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) Who loves us fiercely. This clean kind of fear comes out of a close personal relationship with our heavenly Father through Christ. If we have an intimate friendship with God, we understand He would never cause us harm. That to trust Jesus and obey His Word is the best possible life we could imagine.
GOD'S WORD IS A GERM-KILLER!
Clearly, if germs cause many diseases, and a weak immune system can make our bodies susceptible, then a healthy heart is absolutely essential! God says in Prov. 14:30 "A sound heart is the life of the flesh…”. He also says in Prov. 19:23 “The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.” As we can see, the best prescription of all is choosing to believe the Word of God. When we do, we will experience peace and joy, and ultimately possess a sound heart.
Another related piece of wisdom — you have probably heard the old maxim, “Laughter is the best medicine.” It’s from Proverbs 17: 22 “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” Scientific evidence abounds that proves laughter itself is very healthy for our bodies and minds. (See * below.) Without a doubt, knowing and loving God is truly the simplest and best germ-killing medicine and health-promoting protocol of all!
Note: I will be discussing the fear of God in other blog posts as well. The fear of the Lord is perhaps not what you think, but so much more…..and absolutely GOOD!! I also discuss the subject of killing germs and its remedy in my book, GROUNDED, Simple Tips for Living Well, 2nd Ed. under ‘Wooden Cutting Board’. Check out my SHOP for a description and ordering information.
* Read the benefits of laughter here -- https://www.thehealthy.com/habits/health-benefits-of-laughter/
