The end of this week has taken an unexpected turn since my husband woke up sick yesterday. I’ve been spending my free-time making sure that everything that has the power to make him possibly feel better is getting accomplished. I figured that this would be a great opportunity to talk about how I maintain good health. Throughout my lifetime, I have only been sick a handful of times, and I have yet to get sick since graduating high school three years ago. I owe this to my parents for raising me to make positive health and lifestyle choices. I try to avoid highly processed foods; I don’t and have never eaten any red meat; I make sure to stay active; and I try to sleep as much as my body allows me. This last point is the hardest for me since I have a stubborn internal clock that wakes me up around 6:45 am no matter the circumstances. Anyways, if I do sense that a cold or illness may be trying to come over me, I have specific go-tos that normally clear anything before it has the chance to take hold.
First, I strongly believe in Traditional Medicinals Teas, (http://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/), especially Throat Coat and Gypsy Cold Care. It’s as if they go straight to theissue and soothe my soul in the process. I also drink herbal tea on an almost nightly basis. Personally, I reccommend peppermint, chamomile, ginger, and lemongrass teas.
Second, I love taking warm baths with Epsom Salt. Often times this coincides with the tea drinking. The salt helps with muscle relaxation and can smell wonderful if it has been scented.
Third, I lift weights. This may sound contradictory to how most people urge total rest, but I have found that getting my blood pumping helps me feel energized. I don’t really have scientific evidence to back my next claim, but I honestly believe I am strengthening my immune system alongside my muscles. On the flip side, I have found that doing cardio makes me feel worse, so I only reccommend light intensity strength training. If you are already achy or experiencing full-on sickness, then this third point does not apply. At that point, you just need to devote all your body’s power to recovery.
If all of these “treatments” fail, then by all means go to the doctor. There is a time and a place for medical intervention, and this is that time. Such was the case for my husband. With some medication, homemade asparagus soup, and a good night’s rest in him, I can only hope all will be back to normal soon. As for me, I am going to continue on and fight for both of our bodies: sipping, soaking, and lifting.
