Hello fellow bloggers and readers…due forgive the day late blog….a cold had me delayed. Tis the season and with which its an opportunity to find myself here, sharing with you about the old time yearly reoccurrence.
Yes colds come and colds go and we never know when or where. But I have found some ways to manage colds that have made their way to creating a bit of relief and in my opinion shortened the duration.
With the season upon us and my own personal experience with it this weekend let me share what I have learned. Though I don’t claim to have the cure, I due know some remedies.
Bath time: The healing power of the bath can not be underrated. I have found myself drawn to water whenever I have felt ill; under various conditions. I find water in itself soothing but I also have experienced how well it helps to soothe me when I add a little of this and that to it. Hot water in general relaxes the body but when you add oils and salts it can turn into a real therapeutic application.
The two oils I use most readily are lavender and eucalyptus. Lavender is a calming herb. It is often found in bath products for this as well as its fragrance which is somewhat sweet yet not overpowering. Eucalyptus on the other hand has a very strong smell. Simply placing it up to your nose within a few distance can open up your sinuses. Eucalyptus also helps the body sweat which can be particularly good for a cold running a fever or chill.
Combine 10 drops lavender with 10 drops eucalyptus. Add to 1 to 2 cups Epson salt. Add to bath water. In addition to this you can add a half a cup of baking soda. This these are well worth adding to a bath. The baking soda itself is also a detoxifier along with the Epson salt.
Meal time: I’m sure we have all heard the saying “Feed a cold, starve a fever.” Though I don’t entirely agree with this in its simplicity, I would however say that I find myself gravitating to this naturally when I do experience these symptoms. When I follow this lead it really seems to help. I don’t “starve” but I do lighten up my meals. Going for more soupy meals, pureed and blended.
My belly tends to need such assistance anyway as any food seems to make my intestines feel uncomfortable causing bloating and upset. Being more gentle with our bodies overall with food during this time I think is especially important. You know you are feeling better when the appetite meets up with your physical stamina.
Exercise time: Creating little opportunities to stretch and keep you limber are a good way to make sure your blood flows and your joints keep lubricated. Even as the couch may be your most comfortable place to be a few stretches and can be done. While sitting stretch out your legs, your arms overhead and do a few leg raises.
Put on a light dvd for gentle yoga. If you feel up to it a nice short walk outside in the sun, it can give you the Vitamin D as well as give you a little cardiovascular workout.
Herbs you might research for intake are Echinacea and Elderberry and vitamins like Vitamin C and Zinc. Roots like ginger and garlic too can be helpful.
May we give the season of wellness a good starting point even as we may find ourselves with a cold upon us.
In health,
Safara
