Patients,
I am writing to let you know that we are here for you. We are deeply committed to the health and well-being of our community, on every level. The clinic is open, and we are here--calming nervous systems, boosting immunity and helping people feel better in their bodies and their lives. We are also cleaning more, washing our hands (as per usual!), and stocking up on all of the immune-boosting herbs that have been part of Chinese medicine for millennia. Please don't hesitate to call for an herbal recommendation to help boost your immune system: 571-354-6643 or at sarahalemi@easternrootswellness.com
We will continue to treat patients and monitor the situation as it evolves. Chinese Medicine is an important tool in fostering wellness, and we are committed to supporting our community in this way. As this unique situation develops, we will be in communication. If you have a fever, show any signs of a compromised immune system (i.e. cough and chills), or have traveled internationally in the last two weeks, please contact us so that we can help you in a way that does not involve coming into the clinic or direct contact. Please note that body work will be postponed for anyone having any compromised immune systems (i.e. cough or runny nose). We will be offering distance consults for herbs and supplements, as needed. We do have herbs and supplements in stock now to help boost immunity. Be in touch if you would like some help with this: 571-354-6643 (texting is fine). Here are some of my best self-care recommendations that you can use to keep yourself calm, healthy and resilient.
THE BASICS
Let's start with the ABC's--these are the things you CAN control:
A is for Attitude. This is everything. A calm nervous system helps foster a strong immune system. I like the expression "Proceed as if it is not a problem" because we are super resilient human beings and many of us have been through challenges much larger than this in our lives. Check in with yourself and adjust accordingly. B is for Breath. This is our best tool for keeping a calm nervous system. In through the nose, longer exhale through the mouth. This keeps our nervous systems strong and calm Even better? You do this, and you can help calm others down because you are modeling calm behavior (it goes the other way too, which is an even greater reason for being mindful of your breath). C is for Choice. You get to choose how you move through this situation. Everything can suck, or be full of panic or fear, or you can say yes to what is happening in the present moment and eliminate the friction by accepting the the moment for what it is. And then there are the other basics, which include: 1. Washing your hands. There, I've done my due diligence on what cannot be overstated enough. Wash them every time you come in from the outside, every time you go to the bathroom, every time you think about it. Wash them, wash them good. 20 seconds or more. Make sure you thoroughly dry them; wet hands can transmit the bad guys. Use a paper towel to turn off the water and lights, and immediately dispose of any paper towels into the trash. 2. GET ENOUGH SLEEP. This is the foundation for a strong immune system. Asleep by 10:30. Lights out at 10:20. Pretend you are a kind and loving parent to yourself, and gently admonish yourself that really, it's time for lights out at 10:20. Because you'll thank yourself later and may even develop a good lifelong habit of investing in your health by getting more sleep. 3. Stay calm. See the ABC's above. Anxiety, fear and panic all increase the release of cortisol, which compromises the immune system. That's not what we want. And staying calm feels better anyway. Read the trashy novel. Skip FB. Do some drawing. Do some yoga. Meditate. Breathe. Laugh. Take a nap. Do what you need to modulate your immune system by keeping calm. (Another good lifelong habit to foster!!) 4. Nourish yourself. Eat warm, cooked foods. Avoid sugar, avoid alcohol, avoid dairy right now. This will help your body operate from a place of lower inflammation--boosting the immune system and lowering overall stress. Some great foods to throw into your meals? Apples, blueberries, spinach, mushrooms, and spices - like cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, oregano and garlic. Here's a link to schedule with us if you would like some help and support.
Again, we are committed to our community, and to your health. We are well equipped to help support wellness and to support our community through this unique time. It's what we are deeply passionate about, every day. Thanks for showing up for yourself and your health. Best,
Dr. Sarah Alemi