03/18/2020
When something like the coronavirus hits the news, it can make us worry continuously due to the bombardment of “Updates”, “Alerts”, and “Breaking News”. This raises our stress levels, makes us question everyday decisions, and ultimately lowers our immune system’s ability to perform its job.
Despite the alarm, it is important to remember the original version of the serenity prayer:
“Father, give us courage to change what must be altered, serenity to accept what cannot be helped, and the insight to know the one from the other.”
This presents it is a good reminder to take stock of what is truly under our control and what isn’t. More importantly we can continue with modified versions of our normal lives, doing the things we enjoy and need to stay healthy, while taking reasonable/responsible precautions. Living our lives keeps us healthy and happy, and teaches our kids good behaviors.
You all know the routine: Wash your hands, cough and sneeze into your elbow, and above all if you’re sick feeling or at a higher risk, stay home.
Now for the routine you may not be familiar with: breathe (remember the stress response), get plenty of good sleep, drink 8 glasses of water a day, eat real food (vegetables, even canned will help your body work better. Cereal and other highly processed grains will just impair your immune system.), get up and move and get out into nature (passing someone on the bike trail is not likely going to allow the time required for transmission), and get adjusted!
As many of you know, Dr. James and Dr. Zac are already off for Spring break, but we’ll be back in the office Monday, March 23rd, ready to keep you tuned up and ready to stay healthy!
Last, some supplement advice. Since the office is closed and you may want to get something before we’re open on Monday, EmergenC makes a decent product called IMMUNE+ (don't get the regular EmergenC). It contains a couple of ingredients that are well researched to improve the immune health of mucous membranes. Take 1-2 packets of the Immune+ per day and that should give you a boost.