As the world enters another season in this 'new normal', we have been brainstorming ways to best support our client families to stay healthy. One subject that is on everyone's minds is immune health, which is especially critical as we shift into autumn. With this in mind, we have called in our friend Sarah from BLOEM BOTANICALS to offer some wildly holistic tips to help keep your family healthy and happy this year!
Sarah T., BLOEM BOTANICALS, Kimberley, ON
Especially during this time of year, focus around family immunity is crucial because it gives our bodies a chance to be strong and ready to fight off any cough, cold or bugs that come our way.
One often overlooked but fundamental component of a healthy immune system is a healthy digestive track. After all, we are what we eat, or better yet, we are what we digest. So, how do we improve digestion? Get ready to dig into your spice drawer!
Most spices are carminatives which are herbs that aid in digestion and are anti-microbial. This means they help our bodies break down fats and proteins. This results in better absorption of nutrients, and kills off harmful viruses and bacteria.
There are some simple things you can do on a daily basis such as making spice mixes and placing them on the table for the kids to sprinkle on their food! Putting them in little bowls makes them easy and fun. I suggest mixing up Cinnamon with a pinch of Ginger, Cardamom and Clove with breakfast; I mix this blend into porridge, pancakes, or simply sprinkle on cereal. I love to add Chives to eggs and Paprika to my dinner; they add a little flare to the meal, and it does not take much time to add a dash or two in while I cook.
Another crucial way to build and maintain immunity, is to keep our nervous systems as calm as possible. There are so many changes happening around us that can have an impact on our mental and physical health, and our kids can pick up on this stress while adjusting to their new routines this time of year. Increasing herbs that soothe and tone the nervous system is huge in supporting immune health. We can do this with Chamomile, Lemon Balm or Catnip. I make herbal tea with a touch of raw honey for my children every evening; it has become part of their bedtime routine and it is an easy way to get these herbs in to them. You can find these individually or in tea blends at most grocery or herb stores. Make sure to avoid any bagged tea with added flavour or colour.
Now, let's talk about BODY OILING! This is by far my favourite way to calm the nervous system and administer herbs to my kids! We can absorb all the benefits of herbs through our skin just as easily as through our digestive system. (One thing I’ve learned over the years is if I can’t put it in my mouth, I won’t put it on my skin. Now is a great time to look into your laundry detergents and softeners!). You can make your own by gently heating a cup of olive oil in a double boiler with some herbs for a few hours (you can use a tea bag!). Strain and let it cool, then use this to massage your children’s legs, feet, arms or back at bedtime. This gentle touch, combined with herbs, engages our parasympathetic nervous system, which allows for deep rest and time for the immune system to do it’s work. Body oiling is also just a wonderful opportunity to connect with our children and provide loving attention. Sometimes they may even offer to do your own feet after!
Be sure to follow along on my IG feed as my immune supportive Elderberry Elixir will be available shortly! It not only tones our immune system but it also attacks flu specific viruses!
I would also like to personally invite you to my FREE 1 hour Masterclass "Kitchen Hacks for Building Immunity" on October 1st, at 1pm.
Click here to sign up, or to send me any inquiries!
In health,
Sarah
Handcrafted Herbals