I often get asked what I do when I feel a bit under the weather…
First and foremost, I am a firm believer in the power of prevention. I am amazingly unyielding about getting at least five complete sleep cycles a night (a sleep cycle constitutes approximately 90 minutes, thereby affording roughly 7.5 hours of sleep). I consume copious amounts of green vegetables and clean water. I consume good quality fats and high quality protein. I supplement my diet with vitamins and minerals in the winter months. I move my body with stretching, aerobic activity, or weight-bearing exercise at least 30 minutes every day. I enjoy creative expression and supportive relationships. I vehemently reject clutter. I wash my hands often. I leave my shoes at the door and I use non-toxic products in my home. I pray. I take responsibility for what is mine and I let go of what I cannot control.
AND… usually… my preventative efforts keep me healthy.
And… sometimes, I get “sick”.
It is then, when my alter-ego remains unchecked, I am forcibly reminded that “sick” is simply my body’s way of attempting to regain homeostasis (balance). I look upon this unpleasant process as my inner brilliance doing what needs to be done to get back to “normal”. Feeling “sick” is a toolbox of symptoms that my vital force uses to heal. For example, a runny nose is my body’s version of collecting microbial refuse into the sticky medium called “mucous” and giving it an eviction notice when I need to blow my nose. Spiking a fever is my body’s method of cooking out a pathogen. Fatigue is my body’s attempt to get me to rest and rejuvenate. For me, feeling sick is an opportunity to support myself and my immune system.
In the morning, if not yet “back to normal,” I close my eyes and identify exactly how I am experiencing my symptoms. I then consider a well-indicated homeopathic remedy that covers how I’m feeling in mind, body, and spirit. The same cold or flu bug is experienced differently by each individual, and two people may often need completely different remedies. Luckily, I’m a homeopath. If you’re not, and would like some guidance on which remedies work for acute bouts of cold and flu… stay tuned for my next blog post!
AUTHOR:
Jennette Cable is in private practice as a Traditional Naturopath, Classical Homeopath, and Sound Therapist. She is the founder and director of Creative Care & Wellness Center, a holistic wellness educational facility that celebrates the synergy between the creative expressive arts and holistic health.
