Yes, one more post about COVID-19.
I know we are all being inundated with news and information about this daily, but I want to let you know you’ve got support during this time.
If you do find yourself feeling under the weather with an active fever over 100.4, cough or other respiratory symptoms, we are asking that you reschedule your appointment for an herbal consultation over the phone. At that point I can make you a formula, and either somebody can pick it up for you, I can ship it, or I can deliver it if you live close-by.
In addition, we are having everybody wash their hands at the office, before they enter the clinic space. We are also actively disinfecting all door handles and surfaces multiple times during the day.
Virus Prevention
As far as prevention goes, please take all the precautions we all are very familiar with at this point.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow,
- don’t touch your face,
- and everybody’s favorite: wash your hands, often, for 20 seconds. Get between your fingers and under your nails. Invest in a $5 nail brush.
For those of you with spiritual leanings, the Buddhists at the SF Zen Center recommend a lovely practice of reciting a sutra while washing your hands, instead of singing Happy Birthday. Prayer or mantra works too…basically, use these moments to up your vibration!
Immunity Enhancement
Acupuncture is definitely a good practice for improving/maintaining a healthy immune system. Other than the fact that it’s been used for this purpose for millenia, there is also modern research showing acupuncture increases T-cells and killer cells (types of white blood cells), cytokines, red blood cells, etc., etc., etc. All important parts of our innate immunity. Here is an overview of a few of the studies.
Food and nutrition are very important. Make sure you eat plenty of cooked vegetables, whole grains and legumes, small amounts of high quality (organic, grass fed, pastured) meats, a little bit of fruit. Sugar is an immunity drainer, as is alcohol and smoking. Mushrooms, garlic, ginger, dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, and bone broth from happy, healthy animal sources are all great additions to your diet.
Good quality sleep and moderate exercise are also very important. But be mindful of over-exercising. Too much sweating is a drain to your system, you lose vital heat and fluids that your body needs to create protection from external pathogens.
Stay Calm
And last but not least, do not panic. Fear and stress are also major factors in decreased immunity. Do your best to stay calm, while practicing due diligence in keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy.