First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by the devastating wildfires, both in Northern and Southern California. If there is one thing you take away from this post, it's .. be kind to one another. Emotional pain is not visible and everyone deals with it differently. It can be systemic, debilitating and life changing. The best thing we can do is be supportive and understanding of one another. As believers in food as medicine, we are compelled to share some self-care tips. The air quality remains unhealthy and there are several ways in which you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
For air quality protection,
Wear N-95 masks. These masks filter out fine particles. Wildfire smoke contains a myriad of gases and particles that are invisible to the eye. *Free* at Farmacopia!
Minimize activities that increase indoor pollutants, such as excessive cooking or running exhaust fans.
Everyone should reduce the amount of time spent outdoors, especially older adults, children, pregnant women and those with lung or heart conditions.
The California Air Resources Board recommends using air cleaners with HEPA filters and making sure they do not emit ozone or other harmful substances. Air filters should also be replaced.
Be sure to wash all clothes that are worn outside.
For immune support,
Hydration is key! Your body needs to be properly hydrated to function efficiently. Dehydration can lead to irritability, fatigue and decreased productivity. In addition to drinking water throughout the day, consume water rich foods, such as vegetables and fruits, or sip on tea or broth.
Amp up your vitamin and mineral intake. A multi-vitamin works great as vitamin A, C, D and B vitamins supports immune function. Zinc, magnesium and iron also benefit the immune system.
Drink teas with lemon balm, licorice, holy basil, chamomile or marshmallow root. Don’t have these on hand? Farmacopia recommends making tea from kitchen herbs, such as ginger, thyme, rosemary, turmeric or a blend of a few.
As we are all still reeling over our own devastation from last year, trauma and anxiety can quickly resurface. Please know whatever you are feeling, you are not alone.
For emotional support,
Take a bath or hot shower.
Add boiling water to a bowl and tent a towel over your head. If you have essential oils, add peppermint, pine, eucalyptus or lavender.
Try the 4-7-8 breathing exercise .. In a seated position, place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth, and keep it there through the entire exercise.
Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.
Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four.
Hold your breath for a count of seven.
Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of eight.
This is one breath. Now inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times for a total of four breaths.
Farmacopia and Bonnie Rose Weaver inspired this post and
we are grateful for their knowledge and expertise.
We accredit much of the above information to them.
At the Nectary, our #plantmedicine can provide support and healing during this time.
Adaptogens are great to restore the mind and body from stress, illness, deficiency and overall imbalance. We recommend: Anima Mundi Adaptogenic Powder, Moodbeli’s Calming Adaptogen, Mushroom Adaptogen or Energy Tonic, anything from Sun Potion or Root & Bones. For lung support, the strong lung or wellness syrup from Taproot Medicine can be found on our retail shelves. You can also find essential oils targeting stress reduction from Floracopeia and Nectar Essences.
We have several made to order and pre-made items that incorporate healing and supportive herbs. We recommend any and all green juices, golden mylk and wellness shots: wheatgrass, aloe, ginger elixir, turmeric elixir and golden triangle.
If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart. - Arabian proverb
If you can, donate. Animal shelters, food banks or local organizations. In the first 24 hours, shelters are very limited in supplies. If you are not financially able to donate, simply spreading the word about where/how to donate is helpful. As we come into know of specific organizations, we will share that information through our Instagram and Facebook. If you know anyone personally affected, offer a meal, a warm shower or anything they need off their plate as they begin to heal.
Our hearts go out to all the responders, fire fighters, people in pain, communities that will need to be rebuilt and simply with all those affected by these fires, both emotionally and physically. Take care of yourselves and know we are here to serve you.
In Good Health,
The Nectary