Breathe Easy

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I’ve had a stuffy cold/sinusitis for the last couple of weeks.  There’s something about summer colds that makes them all the more miserable.  Curling up in a blanket with a steaming cup of tea feels more natural in the winter.  In the summer, you feel you should be frolicking outside without a care in the world.

I was determined to manage this illness without taking any extra medication.  I have enough chemicals in my body in the form of my regular meds and I didn’t want to add in any more if I could possibly help it.  In any case, I’ve never heard anyone rave about decongestants – you can’t even take them for long otherwise they cause the exact problem you’re trying to treat!  So I used some of my favourite helpers and did a bit of research to add in some new.  Of course, being given beautiful flowers from my parents’ garden perked me up too.

 

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Lemon, Turmeric and Ginger Tea

Turmeric tea

This is like drinking hot lemon and honey, with the added benefits of warm and comforting spices.  Ginger and turmeric are natural anti-inflammatories.  Turmeric was recommended to me for that reason by a hospital doctor a number of years ago.  I’ve been using root spices (Ocado sells everything!), but you could substitute for dried if you wish.  I’ve made a batch of this in the morning, drank a mugful and put the rest in a flask to sip throughout the day.  The bitterness of the lemon, warmth of the spices and comfort of the honey feels like a real tonic.

 

Aromatherapy

Aromastone - Neals Yard

I’ve used aromatherapy oils ever since my Mum introduced me to them as a teenager.  I have a small wooden box with my favourite oils in, which includes eucalyptus for when I have a cold.  I use my aromastone, which gently releases the oils into the room.  I find it particularly helpful to have beside me at nighttime.  I don’t think you can beat a hot bath with aromatherapy oils, but as I can’t bath due to my seizures, I’ve discovered the next best thing – putting a few drops of oil onto a flannel and placing it onto the shower tray whilst I sit in the steamy water.

 

Self-Massage

Lymphatic drainage self-massage

I love a massage.  There are very gentle self-massage techniques you can use around your face and neck to help drain the lymphatic system and ease congestion.  You only need the lightest of touch.  Repetition is the key – it’s great to do whilst watching TV or reading a book.  I find it makes such a difference.

 

Legs up the Wall

Legs up the wall

Legs up the wall is probably my favourite yoga pose.  I find myself turning to it to ease a headache, relieve back pain, boost my energy, calm me when I feel overwhelmed and help me to sleep.  I made an unexpected discovery when I also found that it clears sinus congestion.  Again, I believe this is due to it stimulating the lymphatic system.  In times of illness, or when I want to make it ultra-relaxing, I use a bolster to support my lower back and a warm lavender pillow across my eyes.  I can happily lie like this for 10-15 minutes.  Bliss.

 

Green Smoothie

Anti-inflammatory green smoothie

I’ve continued to make regular use of the Nutribullet I was given for Christmas, but I felt I was getting stuck in a rut with the ingredients I was using.  I was looking through different recipes to shake it up when I found this one.  It’s delicious.  There’s just a hint of sweetness, lots of green goodness, and once again those warming anti-inflammatory spices.

I hope these ideas help you if you’re feeling stuffy too.  I’d love to hear from you if you have any other helpful tips.  Next week I’m having time off from blogging as I celebrate my birthday and focus on other writing projects. I’ll be back with a new blog post in two week’s time.

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2 thoughts on “Breathe Easy

  1. I found this very interesting and very apt as I’m still struggling with cold like symptoms on and off since mid April.
    Of course, I LOVE the flower picture, knowing its special connection. (Both Ben and Granny) For someone who doesn’t particularly like blue I do like blue flowers with orange ones
    Mxx

    1. Thank you for the flowers! You could try the green smoothie leaving out the banana and adding in some pineapple or mango instead. X

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