Energy Medicine Techniques and Tips For Seasonal Allergies

Is it just me, or is this the worst spring for allergies everrr? Not only has my family been suffering, but my entire facebook feed is full of desperate cries for help or just some sympathy over horrid and seemingly endless allergies/ colds/ sinus infections. I feel your pain my friends! And so came about this post. I wanted to offer my two cents on best energy techniques for immediate relief, as well as a few holistic preventative measures you can take.

Acupressure Points

These points, when stimulated, help to move energy in systems of the body which support the sinuses. They can balance the energies of the meridians and the organs they govern. By rubbing or gently tapping these points you can help to detoxify the body and strengthen the immune system. The points may be a bit tender but that probably means they need clearing!

Rub or firmly tap these points:

Stomach 1: Drag your finger down from the outer corner of the eye and in toward the center, just below the cheekbone beneath the iris of your eye.

Bladder 2: Place finger at the inside corner of the eyebrow.

Large Intestine 20: Place finger at the outer corner of the nostril.

Stomach 3: Drag finger down and out from corner of nostril to indent.

Some additional points to try: Rub from Bladder 2 across the eyebrow (pressing up into the brow bone), if you find a tender spot be sure to stay on it a bit longer and breathe.

Exercise for Sinus Headache - Alternate Nostril Breathing/ Pranayama

This breathing technique will activate the parasympathetic nervous system; taking you out of fight or flight, and increase respiratory function.

Place pointer and middle fingers on the bridge of your nose. Gently close the right nostril with your thumb and breathe deeply and evenly through the left nostril. Close the left nostril with your pinkie and ring finger, release the hold on the right and exhale slowly through the right nostril. Inhale through the right, then close the right nostril and exhale through the left. Repeat as long as you wish.

Superfoods and Supplements

To fight off allergies and infection, it is also important to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. These are a few supplements/ superfoods that have been proven to help. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, one the main meridians associated with spring is the liver, so it is particularly important to assist it in cleansing the body of toxins during this peak time.

Vitamin C

Tried and true! Vitamin C is one of the best ways to support your system. Make sure you are getting a lot from foods (citrus, peppers, leafy green vegetables, and strawberries which are coming into season now!). I've been adding Camu Camu powder to my morning smoothie. The berries from this plant contain a higher amount of vitamin C then any other known food source.

Stinging Nettle

This plant is a natural anti-inflammatory which can prevent allergic reactions in the body and has been shown to help with breathing-related issues. You can buy Nettle Tea at the store, or for an even more effective remedy, you can try making a Nettle Infusion from dried powder or leaves.

Nettle Infusion: Add 1 oz dried nettle to 1 Quart boiling water, let sit 4-10 hours then strain and drink.

Susan Weed has more information here: http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

*Please note that it may not be recommended to drink nettle daily or when pregnant

Essential Oils

The following essential oils can help to clear sinus issues. Use the oils in a diffuser or place a few drops in a bowl of steaming water, cover your head with a towel and steam away! It may also be helpful to carry one with you if your symptoms increase when outside. Simply put a drop in your palm, rub hands together and breathe deeply.

Pure Oils:

Eucalyptus

Frankinsense

Palo Santo

Young Living blends:

Breathe Again Roll On

R.C.

*Please contact me if interested in purchasing Young Living oils