First things first, staying home and social distancing is crucial right now in order to reduce the spread of this virus. That said, many of us are still likely to come into contact with this virus. So what do we do?
Earlier this week one of my favorite authors and herbalists, Kami McBride shared a video with some great information about how to create an undesirable environment for the coronavirus. I wanted to share with you some of her insights, as well as some of my own.
long story short, this is a cold, damp-loving pathogen, and one of the best ways we can be an undesirable host for it is to stay warm - inside and out.
1. Eat warm foods
As I mentioned above, this is a cold-loving pathogen so the more we can keep our bodies warm, the less desirable we'll be as a host. As herbalist Kami McBride says, "this is not a time for salads!" Rodger that! :)
The temperature of your food is just as important as the food itself. If you're eating a sandwich, grill it. If you're eating left overs, heat them up. Soups are especially ideal right now as you can serve them hot and include lots of immune boosting herbs (see tip #3).
2. Drink warm drinks
Staying hydrated is important to strengthen the immune system, so drinking plenty of water is especially important. Additionally, warm beverages will help keep your body warm, and promote the flow of lymph in your system.
Our tea pot has become our best friend. Herbal teas (see the next tips for tea specifics), and even just pure warm water, or warm water with lemon are ways to stay hydrated and consume other immune supporting ingredients as well.
3. Consume warming aromatic herbs and spices
In my post, 5 herbs to boost the immune system, I shared ideas for which herbs to turn to and how to use them to boost our immunity. Here's a couple others to consider:
Cinnamon
Among many other benefits, cinnamon antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It increases warm and circulation and supports the digestive system. It is especially helpful to counteract congestion and help with the digestion of cold dairy foods. We often put this on yogurt and ice cream, or sprinkle it on toast with butter. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon to your warm beverages like coffee or tea.
Clove
A favorite aromatic spice for the fall season, clove has a warming effect from simply smelling it, but did you know it also contains antiviral properties (among MANY others)?! There are some great pre-packaged teas including clove, but you can also make your own! Combining clove, cinnamon, and ginger creates a wonderfully warming and immune boosting tea.
4. Embrace sunshine
If this is a cold-loving pathogen, then we need to love our time in the sun. During the spring we can go from rain and wind, to sunshine in the span of an hour. When the sun does peek out, go out to welcome it. Spend time basking in the sun to help encourage circulation, and warming the body inside and out.
Additionally, exposure to sunlight helps us produce serotonin - the chemical in our brain that elevates our mood. In times of fear and uncertainty, this is especially helpful.
5. Stay light hearted
As I wrote about in today's Monday Motivation, it's important to remember that this is simply a moment in time. It's an unprecedented time, no doubt, but it will soon be a memory. One of the most important things we can do, is keep leaning back into the lighter side of things.
Finding things to do that bring you joy, that makes you laugh, and that make you feel love is incredibly important for mental peace. This experience is a mental exercise in choosing optimism and hope over fear and frustration on a minute-by-minute basis.
One of my techniques for this is creating a vision for the future - or as I like to refer to it, a 'light at the end of the tunnel vision.'
What will your life look like after this is over? What will you do? Where will you go? Who will you be with? How will you feel? Create that vision with clarity, maybe even make a vision board for it, and let this vision be a beacon for you in times of darkness.
May the light be with you.
Wishing you and yours health and happiness.
With love and gratitude,
Robin Angela
PS - looking for tips to create a vision board? I have a FREE vision board guide and video tutorial for you in the FREEBIES section of my website. Simply register to receive instant access!
Enjoy!