Summer Fun: 6 Tips to Keep Your Muscles in Top Shape
Summer is the time for fun and fitness. It is also the time of year I treat the most sports related injuries. In my west village office when summer arrives so do the hamstring pulls, rotator cuff issues, plantar fasciitis, QL spasms and more. Whether you are a runner, or a cycler, or a golfer, or a surfer, the best way to play hard (or train hard) and keep playing is to take care of your body before there is a problem. Some tips!
If it hurts, stop doing it. Training for an event like a marathon or a triathlon takes a certain amount of willpower. But unless you are on mile 21, powering through the pain is not the best option. If it hurts when you run, stop running. If it hurts when you swim, stop swimming. Stop whatever you are doing that is causing you pain, and go see a sports medicine doctor, massage therapist, chiropractor or acupuncturist. The faster you address the issue, the faster it will heal, and the faster you can get back to your workouts.
Get acupuncture or massage regularly. If you are training for an event like a marathon or a triathlon, make body work a part of your training. It speeds recovery time, improves performance, and solves problems before they become injuries. Plan for it the same way you plan your workouts.
Do not ice. I don’t care what anyone else tells you, ice is for broken bones and severe sprains and that’s it. If something is hot, red and swollen and you can’t move it, ice it and go immediately to see a doctor. If it is not hot, red and swollen and you can move do not put ice on it. Most muscular aches and pains are just that -- MUSCULAR aches and pains. Ice makes a tight muscle tighter, and it creates trigger points which will cause more discomfort long term. Heat is a better option. If your muscles are tight and sore after a workout get some heat on them later in the day -- heating pad, hot epsom salt bath, steam room, sauna, hot tub...any which way you like. It will improve circulation, loosen the muscle, and alleviate pain.
Try Yoga. Work at least one day of yoga or stretching into your routine. I always tell my runners that 1-2 days on yoga a week will prolong their running careers, but I think that is true for any active person. Most workouts are designed to tighten muscles, and there needs to be something opening them and lengthening them as well, or you are setting yourself up for injury. Yoga is a great option, but if that is not your thing try one of the new assisted stretch classes, or just plan a stretching day with your trainer.
Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate! Your muscles are 70% water. I can tell the minute I put my hands on someone if they are dehydrated -- the muscles feel hard and stuck together. Drink plenty of water before and after working out and add some natural electrolytes if possible (NOT Gatorade).
Mix it up. Most injuries are from repetitive stress -- using the same muscles in the same way, repeating the same motions over and over and over. Mix up your workouts to avoid repetitive stress issues. You will use other muscles groups and improve overall strength and flexibility.
SPRING CLEANING -- LOVE YOUR LIVER
In Chinese Medicine, spring is all about the Liver. The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood and emotions. Any time there is a blockage or a stagnation of any kind the liver is probably involved. That can manifest as anything from physical pain to digestive issues to diaphragm constriction to irritability. Liver Qi Stagnation is a common imbalance this this time of year and manifests as abdominal distention and pain, sciatica, pms, irritability, depression and headaches.
Western and Eastern organ functions are very different. But when it comes to the liver they are surprisingly similar. In Western medicine the Liver has over 400 functions which do indeed contribute to the “smooth flow” of bodily functions including metabolizing fats proteins and carbs, converting sugar to energy (or fat), and perhaps most importantly breaking down toxins and removing them from the body. These days that is a full-time job.
We are exposed to over 100 thousand chemicals a day. They are in our air, food, water, clothes, prescription drugs, personal care items, cleaning products, carpet fibers, mattresses, and more:
33 carcinogens are found in house dust and 24 in the air
64-80% of people have toxins in fatty tissues
In a recent study OCDD, styrene, 4-dichlorobenzene, xylene and ethylphenol were found in 100% of people.
In 1989, 5,705,670,380 pounds of chemical pollutants were released into the environment. 30 years later that number has significantly increased
Our Livers are designed to remove toxins -- but not at this level! It needs our help! We can do this by eating organic, buying an air filter, switching to nontoxic cleaning products and personal care items, cutting down on sugar, alcohol and processed foods, avoiding plastic and more, but even so I believe that once in a while a “deep clean” is in order. In my west village clinic I always tell my patients that spring is the time of year is the perfect time of year to show your liver some love. If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms it may be time for a spring cleaning:
Fatigue
Muscle aches
Joint pain
Sinus congestion
Postnasal drip
Excessive sinus problems
Headaches
Bloating
Gas
Constipation
Diarrhea
Heartburn
Sleep problems
Difficulty concentrating
Food cravings
Water retention
Weight loss resistance
Skin problems (eczema, psoriasis, rashes, acne, etc.)
Cleansing is controversial. Many debate its benefits. It is overused and often done incorrectly. I myself am not a fan unless done under the right circumstances and with the right support. But if done correctly it can be amazing! I have felt firsthand the difference it can make -- I just got back from a ten-day supported cleanse with the amazing Manu Dawson of Integral Health Food. I experienced an improvement in my energy level, digestion, skin, sleep, mood and more, here are some of the basics things I learned:
1. Cleansing is a two-part process -- Phase one breaks up toxins and dumps them. And Phase two carries the toxins out of the body. It is very important to create balance between the two -- if not you are just dumping toxins into your bloodstream to circulate and cause more problems. The goal is to slow down phase one and speed up phase two. So make sure you incorporate the following:
Broccoli, Spinach, Kale, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage and all cruciferous veggies help push phase two.
Ellagic acid, found in raspberries, apples, strawberries, grapes, blueberries, walnuts and brazil nuts, supports phase two. An apple a day really does keep the Dr. away!
Green Tea Extract floods the Liver with powerful antioxidants that help detoxification. Use extract not tea --Tea is good for you but not strong enough for this.
Glutathione is the most abundant antioxidant in the human body and possibly the most important. It is Necessary for phase two detox. It can be found in Whey Protein or supplement.
Turmeric helps during detox by flooding the liver with antioxidants.
Milk Thistle protects the Liver from damage.
2. You need Protein -- Protein is essential. Juice alone is not enough. Your body needs amino acids to make the enzymes necessary for detoxification. Without supplementation the body catabolizes its own muscle to get them. You don’t want that! So, make sure you are getting some protein with every meal. That does not mean meat! You can get the protein from Veggie sources like Chlorella, Spirulina, Hemp or Chia.
3. Drink lots of water but not tap -- you need lots of fluids to flush things out but avoid tap water! Some of the common toxins found in tap water are: fluoride (which is a neurotoxin and endocrine disruptor. You may want to find a fluoride free toothpaste as well!), chlorine, lead, mercury, PCBs, DDT, arsenic, perchlorate (which attacks the thyroid,) dioxins and more. It is very important to avoid these while you are trying to detox them out of your system! You can also invest in a good water filter -- but do your research and make sure it is strong enough to remove all the above. A Britta won’t cut it.
4. Cleanse your mind -- In Chinese Medicine the Liver is strongly affected by stress and emotion. As you cleanse you may find things coming up -- emotions, memories, dreams…. let them go. Your body and mind are connected, and both are cleansing! It is the perfect time to let go of what now longer serves you, of what may be holding you back. You may find yourself laughing or crying for no apparent reason. Go with it!
5. Cleanse your environment -- If you are not lying on a beach in the Bahamas during your cleanse like it was, it is the perfect opportunity to give your home a good scrub too! Get rid of all that winter dust lurking in corners and under furniture. Wash your curtains, get your rug deep cleaned. Marie Kondo the heck out of your closet. Make space for new things...
6. Do it with a partner or a group -- if you can do this it really helps! The process can be tough and having someone to reach out to can help you stay the course. Things come up -- you may feel achy and feverish, tired and light headed, emotional. There will be times when you want to give up. Having a support group to check in with -- to commiserate and laugh with -- can make a big difference.
7. Get moving and get body work. -- Moving your body and getting some body work are both important parts of any cleanse. Exercise should be gentle, not rigorous -- just enough to get blood and lymph moving. Acupuncture, massage, steam room, sauna, infrared sauna, Epsom salt baths, yoga and pranayama (yogic deep breathing) all help flush toxins out of the system. Acupuncture can be helpful to balance the nervous system, manage stress, and support your liver during this process.
8 THINGS I’VE LEARNED ABOUT FERTILITY
There is so much conflicting information about fertility and pregnancy and so much of it is anxiety inducing! In my years of practice in my west village clinic I have worked with many women going through the cycles of conception and pregnancy, and I have learned a great deal from the experience. So, I wanted to share a few things I have learned that may alleviate some of the anxiety:
It is not difficult to get pregnant. I want you to remember all the years you have been desperately trying NOT to get pregnant. The years of multiple methods of birth control and fear of slipping up. Your body was made to do this. You have to trust it. If it is in balance and you are in good health, you will most likely not have trouble getting pregnant.
Your body must be in balance. Do you have acid reflux? Insomnia? Digestive issues? Anxiety? High blood pressure? Aches and pains? These are all signs that something is out of balance. Basically, any health issue you have is a sign of imbalance, and you must consider the health of all your organs, not just your reproductive ones. Our bodies talk to us all the time, and we rarely listen. One of the best things you can do while trying to get pregnant is listen to your body and feel where and when things are out of balance. And treat that first.
It takes 6-18 months. This is a biggie. It’s going to take way longer than you think, way longer than you want. But that’s how long it takes. What you do today impacts your cycle 3 months from now. So, if you start eating right and sleeping more and going to acupuncture and taking herbs now, you should start trying 3-6 months from now. It takes time to prepare your body for this! You need lots of Qi and Blood and nutrients and rest and time to figure out what your cycles are doing. Know this going in. Be patient, trust your body, and enjoy the prep time!
Enjoy the prep time. The 3-6 months before pregnancy are my favorite! It is the time for unadulterated self-care! You 100% must take care of yourself first if you want to get pregnant. It is a necessity not a luxury. So, have fun with it. This should be a joyful time, not a stressful one. It should be like some sort of extended personal baby moon. Make time for massages and naps and crappy TV and novels and very low impact yoga and nesting and eating pretty much anything you want. Because….
You can’t be on a diet. If you are trying to get pregnant, you can’t be on a diet. You need somewhere around 20% body fat for optimal fertility. And your body needs healthy fat, protein, and carbs to build the resources it needs to create a human being from scratch. You cannot do this on green juice and salad. Healthy eating is not one size fits all. There is a big difference between a cleansing diet and a building one. And you need to be on a building diet. You do this by eating lots and lots of healthy fats and cooked veggies (not raw) and adding carbs back into your diet and upping your red meat intake (if you eat meat, if not I would recommend some blood building herbs). Think comfort food. Think stick to your ribs. Healthy of course, but real substantial food to build strength and endurance, as if you were training for an athletic event...because you are!
You are not too old. If you are healthy and still getting your period, you can get pregnant. The widely used statistics on fertility and age are so ridiculously outdated they are almost obsolete. Take a peek at this article about how most of the statistics used today are from data gathered in 1700’s France -- a time before antibiotics, birth control or even electricity. In my own practice, I have patients getting pregnant naturally well into their 40’s. Naturally. Without intervention. And consider all of the additional fertility treatments we have at our disposal today from IVF and IUI to acupuncture and herbs, and take a breath -- you have some time. And remember….
Stress is your biggest obstacle. The biggest obstacle that I see in my own practice is stress. Basic neurology dictates that our central nervous systems are either in “fight or flight” or “rest and digest”. When in fight or flight, all bodily functions not directly related to our ability to survive are switched off. Non-essential bodily functions include digestion, immune function and you guessed it, reproduction. One of the best things you can do while trying to conceive -- perhaps the most important -- is find ways to alleviate stress. That is going to look different for everyone. It may mean working less, or turning your phone off on the weekends, or cultivating a yoga or meditation practice, or gardening or spending time alone. Truly, whatever works. But spend more time in “rest and digest”. Not only will you have an easier time conceiving, but you will improve your overall health.
Acupuncture and Herbs can help. From the simplest ways to the more complex acupuncture can be instrumental in bringing your body into balance. It helps reduce stress, balance hormones, and with herbal support, can help build the resources you need for pregnancy. It has also been shown to be effective partner for IUI and IVF treatment -- recent studies show a 26% increase in conception rates when acupuncture is used in conjunction with western fertility treatments.
NY YOGA LIFE MAGAZINE SPRING EQUINOX SERIES
Tuesday March 20th I am teaming up with NY Yoga Life Magazine and Modrn Sanctuary for an essential oil event! Part of our spring equinox series! Learn which EO's support the heart chakra and how to use them...all in the beautiful Himalayan salt room!
DON’T STRESS OUT ABOUT FLU SEASON…
They only way to truly protect yourself during flu season is to have a healthy immune system. And the only way to have a healthy immune system is to make self-care a priority. I feel like that needs to be said twice. Make…self-care...a...priority. Your immune system is miraculous -- we are exposed to multitudes of germs every single day and almost never get sick because our immune systems work. Until they don’t. Because they get worn down. They get worn down when we are overtired, when we are stressed, when we are not eating healthy foods, when we are exposed to extreme weather. Luckily there are many things we can do to support our immune systems and a little TLC goes a long way: Add some Herbal support. Herbs like astragalus, echinacea and goldenrod have been proven to strengthen the immune system.
Wash your hands. (NOT with hand sanitizer or antibacterial soap)! In Acupuncture school we learned that the single best way to stop the spread of disease is hand washing. So, wash your hands often. But bear in mind that a healthy immune system starts with healthy gut bacteria! So, don’t kill off the good guys with hand sanitizers and antibacterial soaps. Soap and water will do just fine.
Stress Less. I know this is easier said than done but stress is the number one enemy of your immune system. When your nervous system is in “fight of flight” your immune system is literally switched off. Try and spend some time in “rest and digest’ every day, weather that is meditating in the morning, walking through the park at lunch, yoga after work, or turning your phone off on the weekends. Be disciplined about your downtime!
Wear a scarf. In Chinese medicine, cold and wind are considered an EPF’s (external pernicious factors) They can access your system through a point at the back of your neck and bring on a cold. This may sound a little farfetched, but when you get sick your neck gets achy. And your glands get swollen! So, I think it is best to keep this area protected.
Cook your veggies. Winter is not the time for salads and green juices. It is not the time for a cleansing diet. It is best to eat warming, building foods that nourish and fortify! So, roast your veggies, try healthy grains, cook soups and stews. And add in warming spices like ginger and cayenne.
Add some Herbal support. Herbs like astragalus, echinacea and goldenrod have been proven to strengthen the immune system. Kitchen Herbs like oregano, basil, thyme and rosemary all have antibacterial and antiviral properties. And my personal favorite is mega doses of Vitamin C!
Get 8 hours of sleep. When you are depleted your defenses are down. Don’t get depleted. Winter is the time to rest and recharge -- take advantage of the cold and the dark and stay in! Go to bed early! I think it may be the single most important thing you can do for your immune system, and your overall health.
Get some Acupuncture. As discussed in my last blog post, acupuncture is a great immune booster. It supports the wei qi, or defensive qi, protecting against infections and environmental factors. Studies show that acupuncture increases the number of white blood cells which destroy bacteria and viruses. And it also alleviates stress which in turn supports immunity. My favorite treatment in my west village clinic is a stress relief/immune boosting treatment that almost anyone can benefit from
TOP TEN BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE
As far as I am concerned, acupuncture is magic and can help with just about anything! But there are some conditions in particular, that acupuncture has been proven to provide substantial, documented results. Here are the top ten from my own west village practice:
Back pain -- The benefits of acupuncture for those suffering from pain have been well studied. Back pain in particular responds well. I find that most back pain is caused by repetitive stress and muscle tension. Most patients feel an improvement after one session, and can achieve lasting results with regular treatment.
Fatigue -- Fatigue is almost always caused by a combination of factors. Hormone health (adrenals and thyroid in particular) vitamin and mineral deficiencies, food quality, sleep quality, work habits and stress levels all contribute. Acupuncture is one of the best ways to treat this multi-layered issue. Combined with herbs and nutritional counseling it is one of the best ways to improve your overall energy levels.
Insomnia -- In Chinese medicine, we view insomnia as a “spirit that is not rooted”. Acupuncture -- and points along the heart meridian in particular -- can ground the spirit and improve sleep. Acupuncture increases the production of neurotransmitters associated with relaxation, and in a study of almost 4,000 patients, acupuncture increased sleep duration better than medications
Immune system -- Chinese medicine views the immune system as an invisible “shield” of energy that runs just below your skin called Wei Qi. Acupuncture supports the wei qi, protecting against infections and environmental factors. Studies show that acupuncture increases the number of white blood cells which destroy bacteria and viruses. In addition, stress directly impacts immunity, and acupuncture alleviates stress. If you are treating stress you are also treating Immunity.
Stress -- Chronic Stress affects every system in your body -- From your immune system to your digestive system to your hormones to your heart. One of the best things you can do for your overall health is alleviate the physical, emotional and chemical effects of stress. Studies show a measurable reduction in the amount of stress hormones in patients that receive acupuncture treatments. (Read Don't Stress Out About Flu Season)
Fertility -- A body in balance navigates conception and pregnancy with ease. Acupuncture, herbs, and nutritional counseling help achieve that balance. Stress factors in here too -- when your nervous system is in “fight or flight” your reproductive system is on standby, so relaxation is an important part of the process. It has also been shown to be effective partner for IUI and IVF treatment-- recent studies show a 26% increase in conception rates when acupuncture was used in conjunction with western fertility treatments.
Women’s health -- Acupuncture regulates cycles and alleviates cramps, eases PMS, improves circulation and balances your hormones. It also treats mood swings, irritability, and water retention! It is hands down one of the best methods of treating menopause symptoms. It alleviates many of the symptoms of pregnancy, can turn a breech baby (with moxa!) and even help to induce labor!
Digestive issues -- Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep and overuse of antibiotics can all severely impact our digestion, which in turn affects everything. Research is now showing that almost every bodily function -- from digestion, to immunity, to mood and brain function are all impacted by the health of our gut flora. Acupuncture supports the digestive system and helps “transform and transport” the nutrients we need for overall health.
Allergies -- Allergies are an overreaction of your immune response. Acupuncture is very effective at calming that overreaction. In as few as 12 acupuncture sessions, seasonal allergy sufferers experienced reduced symptoms and dependence on antihistamines. It is best to start treatments before the allergy season hits, so plan to start a few months in advance of the season.
Depression -- Acupuncture can be very effective at moving stuck energy, and elevating the “feel good’ chemicals in the brain. A new study showed Acupuncture and Chinese herbs were proven to be as effective as antidepressants. And with zero side effects!
FLOWER ESSENCE 101
The past year I have been studying and working with flower essence blends and incorporating them into my treatments. I find they treat on a deep level, and can address the often hidden subconscious obstacles we have to healing. I can speak to their transformative powers professionally as well as personally. I recently interviewed the amazing Lindsay Fauntleroy (my teacher, and a master of flower essence therapy!) for NY Yoga+Life Magazine, and here is how she explains what they are, and how they work...
WHAT ARE FLOWER ESSENCES?
Flower Essence are vibrational plant remedies used to help us get out of our own way so that we can live fully and authentically. Often when I am speaking about flower essences, they get confused with essential oils, which are used in aromatherapy. Flower Essences are like a sibling to essential oils, and they are taken internally very much like you could take an herbal supplement. I have a student who once brilliantly called flower essences “vitamins for the soul” and I think that is spot on.
HOW DO THEY WORK?
We often hear that at any given time we are only using 10% of our brain. The other 90% is our subconscious mind. The analogy is like that of an iceberg. The tip of the iceberg that breaks above the water represents our conscious mind; what we can actively perceive with our five senses, study, memorize, and mentally process at any given time. But beneath the surface? That’s where the magic is. Our habits, our instincts, our autonomic nervous system are all relegated to that 90% that we don’t have to think about. And it’s a good thing too, because
imagine how difficult our lives would be if we had to remind ourselves to breathe or remind our hearts to beat…
The problem is that our subconscious mind also contains an encyclopedia of conditioned responses and beliefs that were formed primarily as infants, in early childhood, and in situations of high stress or trauma. In psychotherapy, these patterns are called maladaptive schemas, In Yogic philosophy these patterns are called Samskaras. These emotional responses and beliefs, which are often in conflict to our stated (conscious) intentions, are accessed rapidly without our
even being aware of it.
This is where the magic of flower essences comes in. They bring awareness to the subconscious habits, behaviors, and beliefs that no longer serve us so that we can evolve into our fullest potential. It’s like taking a flashlight down deep under the water to look at “what’s
down there” beneath the waters. As we examine that part of the iceberg, that 90%, change begins to happen. We can start consciously creating new responses to situations, we can start embodying new truths. And as we do so change starts happening around us…
Read the full Interview with Lindsay in NY Yoga+Life Magazine:
For more information or for custom blended formulas contact me or make an appointment!
5SPIRIT OILS FEATURED IN NY YOGA+ LIFE MAGAZINE!
"Witchy Woman Essential Oil Blend. Dark, mysterious, and spiritual, this blend connects you to the divine feminine. With Palo Santo, Frankincense, and more, it nourishes Yin, and supports and elevates the water element and the winter season"
Read full article
GIVE THE GIFT OF WELLNESS!
Scrambling for last minute stocking stuffers? Here are some suggestions from 5Spirit Oils. I created 5Spirit as a way for my patients to treat themselves -- all the oils are therapeutic grade so each oil or product is like an acupuncture treatment in a bottle. They treat the mind body and soul -- Who doesn’t need that? And there is something for EVERYONE on your list….
Winter Goddess Gift Set. Queendom Flower Essence is an elixir specially created for women stepping into positions of leadership and influence. It helps us to trust our intuition and move through the world confidently connected to our Feminine Power.
Combined with Witchy Woman Essential Oil blend - dark, and mysterious. Supports Yang rising from the depths of Yin. Evokes the powerful dark feminine. A delicious blend of essential oils to evoke the Winter Goddess: Frankincense, Ravensara, Palo Santo and Dark Patchouli. $50
For the Sexy Bearded Man in Your Life
Winter Beard Oil. With Vetivert and Rosemary in a sweet almond and jojoba base. Softens, conditions the beard and smells like a man should….seriously the Vetivert will drive you crazy, in a good way. $35
Precious Metal Scalp Oil. With Saro and Holy Basil. Conditions the scalp, promotes healthy hair growth AND opens your crown chakra to the upper realms! It smells divine because it is -- holy basil oil is used by meditating monks to reach enlightenment! $30
For the Constantly Sniffling
Immune Plus Herbal formula and Immunity Essential Oil Blend. Give the gift of a healthy immune system! The herbal blend strengthens Wei Qi, which is like a hidden force field keeping out illness. Immunity is a natural antibacterial and antiviral and can be used in baths and diffusers. Together they will keep you well all winter! $50
For the Stressed Out and Freaked Out
Winter Greens Bath Salts. These are intense times. What better gift than a “time out”? Epsom and pink himalayan salt. Juniper, Atlas Cedarwood, Black Spruce and Birch. The perfect winter soak. Soothes sore muscles, and calms the spirit. Supports the Kidneys, adrenals, and nervous system. Strengthens the constitution. $20
For the Wellness Practitioner
5 Element Practitioner Set. Winter Greens, Spring Fling, Heartbreaker, Earth Mamma and Immunity. One oil for each season and each element. An easy way to incorporate EO's into your practice, and into our life! Mix with massage oil or use on acupuncture points to treat physical imbalances. Point suggestions included. Can also be used in baths or diffusers. $100
CALL OR EMAIL FOR LAST MINUTE ORDERS!
LOULOU@LOULOULAC.COM
917-686-6602
IMMUNE BOOSTERS FOR METAL SEASON
The air is colder and the days are shorter, we are finally entering autumn. In Chinese Medicine, autumn is associated with the Metal Element. Metal rules the Lungs and Large Intestine. It is involved with taking in and letting go, preparing for winter, and developing healthy boundaries (among other things!) In addition, Metal rules the Immune System. Now is the perfect time to give your immune system a little love! Here are some of my immune boosting suggestions:
1. STRESS LESS.
I know this is easier said than done but stress is the number one enemy of your immune system. When your nervous system is in “fight of flight” your immune system is literally switched off. Try and spend some time in “rest and digest’ every day, weather that is meditating in the morning, walking through the park at lunch, yoga after work, or turning your phone off on the weekends. Be disciplined about your downtime!
2. WEAR A SCARF.
In chinese medicine, wind is considered an EPF (external pernicious factor) It can access your system through a point at the back of your neck and bring on a cold. This may sound a little far fetched, but when you get sick your neck gets achy. And your glands get swollen! So I think it is an area we should keep protected. In autumn, especially in recent years, the temperature can drop dramatically from moment to moment. Protect your neck!
3. ESSENTIAL OILS.
Kitchen herb essential oils -- like thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, clove -- are all great for immune support. So effective in fact that in the middle ages, thieves used to douse their handkerchiefs in oils, to steal from plague victims without getting ill. My Immunity Blend is
an updated “thieves” oil, with all of the above plus Eucalyptus which specifically supports the
lungs. It is best when inhaled -- so use with a diffuser, or in a steam room or a hot bath.
4.STOP...USING...HAND SANITIZER.
I know that sounds contradictory but every time you use something with Antibacterial, or Antimicrobial on the label, you are actually damaging your immune system. Recent research has proven that our immune system is directly connected to our microbiome -- a network of good bacteria that is created in the gut. Our healthy bacteria keep the unhealthy bacteria in check. When you use hand sanitizer, it kills the good bacteria...damaging your body’s ability to fight its own battles. Wash your hands with soap and water instead.
5. GARDEN HERBS.
Astragalus, Echinacea, goldenrod and rose hips can all be grown in your garden! And all are great for immune support. I like to make a tea, but you can also make your own tincture, or buy in supplement form.
6. EAT YOUR CHICKEN SOUP
preferably Bone Broth! Your Grandmother was right! Chicken soup
is good for the immune system! In Chinese Medicine the Wei Qi is like an invisible force field that circulates on the surface of the body, protecting the body from pathogens. Chicken, and specifically the broth, supports the Wei Qi. Go one step further and make (or buy!) bone broth. In Chinese Medicine bone broth is used to strengthen and nourish our essence, qi, and wei qi, as well as warm the yang and build blood. The broth is said to enter and nourish our Kidneys, Liver, Lungs and Spleen. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, silicon, phosphorus and other trace mineral, and contains collagen, proline and gelatin...is it the original superfood!
BONE BROTH RECIPE
Broth can be cooked on the stovetop on low heat, or in a slow cooker (crock pot).
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of bones (Include 2-4 chicken feet, or 1 sliced calf’s foot for added gelatin; if using fish, use non-oily only. If using beef bones, you may want to roast them first for added flavor.)
- 4 quarts of cold filtered water
- 2 Tbsp to ½ cup vinegar (to taste)
- Optionally add 1 -3 onions, 2-3 carrots, 2-3 celery stalks, Spices as desired,
- 1 bunch parsley
Directions:
Put bones, meat, vinegar, water, any spices and all vegetables (except parsley) in stainless steel pot or crock pot. Let stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Bring to boil. Skim the scum off of the surface of the water.
Reduce heat, cover and simmer. For fish, at least 2 hours; for poultry, at least 8 hours; for beef, at least 12 hours.
Add the parsley in the last 10 minutes.
Strain, let cool, and refrigerate. Observe amount of gelatin in broth, and make adjustments to cooking time, and vinegar amount, accordingly.
Remove congealed fat that rises to the top.
Freeze any broth that you won’t be using within 7 days.
MY FAVORITE THINGS
I have ALWAYS wanted to do a list of my favorite things...so what better time than my first blog post in December! I think the best gifts are the ones that are a little indulgent, the ones that make you feel good inside and out! So here are some of my favorite things. some I created myself, some are created by people I adore. Mostly created by women and all created by small business owners who care about health of humans and the planet as a whole!
1. EARTH MAMA -- Essential oil blend (in organic jojoba carrier oil). I am a firm believer in strengthening the Earth element. Without a strong center it is hard to do anything else! This blend strengthens digestion, builds Yin, and supports your center. Grounding, Warming, Nourishing. It contains German chamomile, Geranium, Coriander, and a drop of Cinnamon. Apply around your navel, add to your bath, or where on your pulse points. Available at
2. GET UP GODDESS -- Custom Flower Essence. I collaborated with the Amazing Lindsay Fauntleroy of Oceans and Rivers acupuncture on this and we are super excited about it! I see many amazing beings in my practice and it is my mission to help them realize how amazing they are! GET UP GODDESS is a proprietary blend of flower essences which work on a subconscious level. It was created to awaken your confidence, clarity and voice as you step into your own gorgeous power. Available at louloulac.com
3. MERMAID SOAK -- Bath salts from Ariele's Apothecary in Hoboken. Magnesium, Seaweed, Himalayan Pink Sea salt and Essential oils to relax your muscles, detox your cells, relieve skin conditions, soothe achey joints and improve circulation! A step beyond epsom salts...delicious! BTW she also does an all natural bug spray that has people stopping me to ask about my "perfume"! www.arielesapothecary.com
4. FUNKLESS -- Natural Deodorant. I have tried EVERY natural deodorant and this is the ONLY one that works! I absolutely promise! Magnesium and essential oils. Healthy and smells delicious! Available on Amazon.com and Etsy.com
5. NIBI MTK CLUTCH -- brightly colored, tasseled, natural materials....Nibi Mtk is my fav boutique for all things beachy boho and apres yoga! Also check out the Kimonos and tasseled necklaces and bracelets with buddhas and ganeshas! Nibi is the local native american word for water and all sales include a donation to wateraid.org. Available at Nibimtk.com
6. PALO SANTO WOOD -- the new sage. Has the same clearing affect and smells divine. Also! a great alternative to citronella as a mosquito repellent! I use it out in montauk all the time...(also great topically in oil form...) You can buy the wood on Amazon.com and the oil at Enfleurage.com
7. TULSI TEA -- we ALL need to be on adaptogens. They support our adrenal health. They adapt -- so if the adrenals are fatigued they give them a helping hand. If they are overexcited they calm them down. I like the ritual of a cup of Tulsi Tea and the end of the day to hit the "off" switch. Also known as Holy Basil, tulsi was used by spiritual seekers to aid in meditation. It is supposed to help you "see god" -- perhaps that is what happens when we finally relax! It is available as a supplement AND an essential oil, or you can grow it in your garden!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, heart-centered holiday season! I look forward to continuing the journey in the new year.