As a health & wellness practitioner, I feel it is important for me to weigh in on the COVID-19 pandemic. First, and most importantly: STOP PANICKING!
Panic is part of our fight-or-flight response, which is designed to keep us safe in extreme situations such as a mass-shooting or being chased by a hungry tiger. When we become scared, stressed, or panicked our body releases chemical – adrenaline and cortisol – to first get us moving out of danger (or ramping us up for a fight) and then to help bring us down once safe. The problem arises because – unlike a real need to get the hell out of someplace – we sort of live in this heightened state all the time: stress at work, worrying about paying bills, feeding the kids, etc. This constant state of stress taxes our immune system making it easier for us to fall ill. Ever notice that you get sick right as you are preparing a big project for work or during your busiest workloads? Yeah, that’s because your system is worn out and its easier to fall ill.
Next, know he symptoms. Runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, up to difficulty breathing. If you have diarrhea, not COVID-19. S
Finally, know how to protect yourself and others, and know actions to take should you feel ill. The absolute BEST protection against COVID-19 and all virus/bacterias: WASH YOUR HANDS. Not with hand sanitizer, but good ol’ fashioned soap and water. Wash frequently for 20 seconds or longer. Sing Happy Birthday twice or check out WashYourLyrcs.com to create a hand washing poster to your favorite song. Hey, no one said hand washing had to be boring. Save the hand sanitizer for when soap and water is not available; such as when riding public transit, using the ATM, opening doors to public buildings, etc.
Avoid touching people. No handshakes or hugs. Practice “social distancing” by keeping a safe space – 6ft is recommended – around you. If you feel sick STAY HOME. You may not have COVID-19, but you still may have an illness that could be transmitted to others, thus compromising their immune system. Also, if you are sick, avoid contact with at-risk populations: the elderly, the very young (under 5 yrs old), the pregnant, the immuno-compromised, or those with chronic health conditions. If you are concerned about your symptoms, CALL your doctor’s office before going in. If you need to get checked and suspect COVID infection, you want your doctor’s office prepared for your visit to minimize your contact with others.
Clean. Clean surfaces including counters, computer key pads, phones, door knobs, toilets, sinks with increased frequency. Don’t wear your shoes in your house. Change out hand towels more frequently.
KEEP YOURSELF HEALTHY. Continue exercising. If you don’t want to go to the gym, change up your routine. Go for walks outdoors, exercise at home/ Do yoga and meditation. Take time to de-stress each night (remember what i said about stress and the immune system). Drink what my friends call “Magic Tea’ (recipe below). Eat healthy foods. And HYDRATE: drink lots of water.
Still concerned of possible quarantine? Have enough food and supplies on hand to get through 2 weeks of home isolation. This includes soap and toilet paper, any medications that you may need (OTC or prescription). Be prepared but don’t stockpile – remember, other people need these things too.
If we keep our cool, follow recommended guidelines, take care of our helath, and remember to help others we will get through this.
MAGIC TEA RECIPE:
1 pinch turmeric powder
1 pinch ginger powder
1 pinch black pepper
squeeze of 1/4-1/2 lemon
Place all ingredients in a cup of hot water and mix thoroughly. Drink every morning. If ill, enjoy more frequently through the day. Note, as with all natural and homeopathic remedies, if you are in active illness results may not be immediate.
Sayta Wellness 