I have missed you all this week as the family and I have been home sick! I don’t get sick too often but inevitably with young kids it happens!! While it is certainly not easy, it is important to take care of yourself and get the rest you need! So here is what I have been doing to take care of myself this week while sick.
First of all, Lots and lots and lots of rest!
Warm water with lemon, ginger and honey to keep hydrated, help cleanse the body, fight infection and soothe sore throat.
Herbal Tea. I like using dried loose tea. It is easy to grow yourself! For flu cold and fever I use a mix of elderflower, echinacea, lemon balm and thyme to help reduce fever and fight infection. Drink with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a spoonful of honey.
Lots of essential oils! I like eucalyptus in the shower to help with fever and congestion.
Elderberry syrup. Helps to boost the immune system.
Homemade tomato, bell pepper, onion and garlic soup with fresh herbs, turmeric and chili powder. I make a large batch and keep extra in mason jars in the fridge and freezer for a quick healthy lunch or if I ever get sick.
Restorative Yoga. Simple stretching in bed. I like to practice a modified downdog/tabletop stretch over my bed to lengthen my spine and help circulate sore tight muscles that are often affected by infection!! A gentle spinal twist in bed feels nice to help soothe an achy back.
Ayurvedic Face Steam. Face steams are great anytime! They help open pores, clear congestion, reduce sinus tension and cleanse the skin. You can modify what you put in your stream depending on your needs. To make a face steam, use a large bowl or sink and fill it up halfway with steaming hot water. Be extremely careful not to burn yourself! Add your desired essential oils or ingredients. For cold or flu I like fresh lemon juice a drop or two of eucalyptus oil and dried elderflower, echinacea, lavender, lemon balm and thyme to help reduce fever, clear sinuses and fight infection. Take a large towel to wrap around your head to keep the steam trapped in. Gently lower your face near the bowl or sink, drape the towel over your head and wrap around the neck and enjoy your steam for a minute or two! Once again be very careful not to burn yourself. If you are extremely congested make sure to blow your nose or use a netty pot after!
I am feeling much better and should be back to myself by tomorrow for another great week of yoga!! Thanks and enjoy the rest of your weekend! 🧘🏻♀️💕🌿
Carlene Haavig Yoga 