But when our bodies encounter too many chemicals – and that includes the hormones released during periods of excess stress – our defence system, which is quite strong, can falter if put under too much pressure, and this malfunction results in prolonged inflammation.

As I explained in yesterday's Daily Mail, when any kind of threat – bacteria, toxins, trauma, even extremes of temperature – injures our tissues, they become 'inflamed' as part of the immune response.

Managing stress by reducing its triggers – toxic thoughts, places, people – can help unlock the secrets to better immune health and lowered inflammation.

Called simhasana in Sanskrit, the deep-breathing technique Lion's Breath can help relax your face and jaw muscles, relieve stress and improve your cardiovascular function.

Sleep might not feel like a priority sometimes, but a lot of critical activity takes place in your body when you rest, including the production of molecules that fight infections.

Adapted by Libby Galvin from The Immunity Solution: Seven Weeks To Living Healthier And Longer by Dr Leo Nissola, to be published by Countryman Press on February 10 at £23.99.