DISCLAIMER: The following article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as medical advice, as a substitute for medical treatment for any acute or chronic conditions. Please consult your physician before taking any herbal supplements, as they may alter the effects of your current medication. Self-treating any condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.
PART 1 of 2
SELF-CARE
In these uncertain and trying times, we must do our part to help keep ourselves and our families safe. Let’s face it, right now we really don’t know what is going to happen from one day to the next with the Covid-19 virus. The focus right now is everyone’s health and safety. Many of us are feeling super anxious and even powerless over life and what is happening around the world.
I wanted to share a few ways you can stay healthy, not just during a time of global crisis, but every day and how you can reclaim your power!
I won’t get into the obvious handwashing and the #staythefuckinside movement. Instead, let’s focus on what else is in our power to stay healthy:
Ø Chill- I know…you are probably thinking, “Deyna, we are in the middle of a global pandemic!!! HOW CAN I CHILL???”. Here’s the reality, stress lowers the immune system and leaves us more vulnerable to viral infections and frequent illnesses. Take a few moments throughout the day to be present and practice mindfulness. Even a few moments of listening to music and singing releases the stress and diverts the minds' attention to what is happening on the news. Even “good stress”, in the form of excitement or being “super busy” can take its toll on our bodies. Because stress is cumulative, it may not have an immediate impact on your body, but gradually begins to affect the different organ systems. Breathing techniques and meditation help your body to relax.
Ø Healthy Eating- Mama was right when she told you to eat your fruits and veggies!! If you do fall ill, your recovery time can be faster if your body is healthy. Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins play an important role in building and supporting your body’s immune system. Research suggests that your body absorbs vitamins more efficiently from dietary sources, rather than supplements. Eat lots of green leafy vegetables that are packed with Vitamin C and B6. Now is a great time to start experimenting with some recipes. Watch some how-to videos and look up different ways of making some of your favorite foods.
Ø Drink Up- No not wine…although…hmmm…ok no …sorry, that’s a story for another day…Water is the contender here. Being hydrated helps important infection-fighting immune cells around your body that are largely made up of water. Dehydration also creates stress on your brain and your body, and we already discussed how much impact stress has. Add some fruits such as watermelon, berries or even lemon slices to your water for a delish twist! Lemon was my personal go-to before my citrus allergy kicked in…ah yes…the joys of aging! Now I am a cucumber with mint or a slice of ginger kinda-girl.
The moral of the story today is to practice good self-care. We have the time and space to slow down now. Take this time to do some inventory in your life. Where can you level up to help your body look and feel its best? Take this opportunity to reclaim your body and your life. We are in this together.
Tomorrow I will be sharing my 5 Favorite Immune Boosting Herbs to help you POWER UP!
Blessed Be,
Deyna
Personal Development Coach