After fighting Coronavirus for close to 50 days, these are the ways I am healing my body naturally and strengthening my immune system.
The aftermath of Coronavirus on my mind and body has not been very pretty. The lingering effects include fatigue, tension headaches, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
After receiving my CT Scan results yesterday, the doctors have confirmed there is scarring on my lungs from the virus. I’ll be receiving more information from a pulmonologist regarding my lung recovery soon. While I wait, I’m working hard to heal my body naturally and strengthen my immune system.
Here are the five ways I’m healing my body naturally and strengthening my immune system.
Nourishing Foods and Warm Liquids
Diet is a word I’ve never particularly liked since I don’t enjoy being told what I can and can’t do. But since I’m trying to heal my body – I have to be careful of what I put in it. It is always better to get nutrients directly from food, rather than take supplements. I’ve increased my intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, limited my dairy, and use fresh ginger and garlic when cooking.
Check out this great healthy recipe!
I start every morning with hot water with fresh lemon juice. As a rich source of vitamin C, lemon juice helps in maintaining the body’s pH balance and protects immune system. Lemon juice with warm water also promotes digestion and increases the metabolic rate as well. I have seen a HUGE decrease in bloating, especially in the morning, and my digestion a little more predictable. I have IBS and have struggled with stomach problems for years.
Instead of sipping ice water all day, I try to drink room temperature or hot herbal teas. The warm/hot liquids are important for healing my respiratory system and reducing inflammation. Some of my favorite teas are Echinacea (reduces inflammation), Rooibos (caffeine free, packed with antioxidents), Green (improves blood flow), and Peppermint (eases digestion, soothes headaches, increases energy).
I can’t forget the addition of essential oils back into my life again. There are so many oils I love to diffuse for calming and relaxing purposes. Valor, lavender, and joy are just a few wonderful natural scents.
Chinese Medicinal Herbs
In addition to my primary care doctor, I’m under the care of a licensed Acupuncturist and natural doctor. My friend Heather Hickson LAc created a custom blend of Chinese Herbs for me to drink as a tea three times a day. Each herb in the tea has a purpose, but combined they are strengthening my immune system.
The aim of Chinese Herbal medicine is to help regain a balance in your body and to strengthen your body’s resistance to disease. My herb mixture will nourish and rejuvenate my lungs, help with emotions, anxiety, sleep, my irregular periods, and build my blood supply.
Supplements
In addition to my daily vitamin, plus additional vitamin C and D, I’m taking a few supplements. Once a day I take 1mL each of Colloidal Silver and Cordyceps as immune system boosters. Colloidal Silver is antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial and a natural antibiotic, while Cordyceps (mushroom) nourish the lungs. Heather also sent over a probiotic to take every morning for my digestion system.
In the evening I take 1ml of 1000mg full spectrum CBD Oil to reduce inflammation in my body, help me focus, regulate my emotions and calm my mind to sleep. I’ve noticed a huge difference in how I sleep (much better), as well as how I feel when I wake up in the morning. My body is so much less achy.
Therapy
There is simply no way my body can heal if my mind is not healthy. My mental health has been suffering and therapy is one way I’m working to heal the damage from the virus. I’m meeting with a therapist two times a week to work through any PTSD symptoms from the virus, as well as my increased anxiety levels.
Practicing Mindfulness
One of the parts of therapy is self-guided – a journey in mindfulness. Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. I’ve always thought I was in touch with my feelings, but I’m learning I suppress a lot. When I’m in a “moment” of anger or sadness, I’m now taking time to process why and how I got there.
Painting, reading, and easy yoga are different ways to relax when you’re feeling stressed out. I’ve never been a painter, but I’ve always wanted to try – so what better time than now? Read more about my new love for painting here.
Some of my friends and family members have sent me books about anxiety and gratitude to read during my recovery process as well.
I’m glad you are feeling better and it sounds like you are making a choice to heal and sticking with it. It’s not easy especially when you have kids wanting your attention. When you’re healthy your family will follow suit. It’s a ripple affect. Keep up the good work ?
We are thinking of you as you recover. Be strong and feel the support of those who care about you and want/need you healthy again. This illness has slowed you down, but not stopped you! Keep working back to healthy. I a saddened to learn of the scaring. I was hopeful it would not happen for you.