5 Tips for Respiratory Wellness!

Aromatherapy, Massage

5 Tips for Respiratory Wellness!

February 18, 2020

Respiratory wellbeing (especially healthy lung function) is essential to living a healthy life. Now more than ever, respiratory wellbeing should be something you are looking to support. Your lungs bring oxygen to your organs by removing the carbon dioxide from your body. I know, it sounds pretty important, right? Now, you might be asking yourself “What the heck do I do to support my respiratory system and it’s wellbeing?!”. Well, you’re in luck! We have gathered our best tips that have been known to help support your respiratory system.

#1 Avoid Infection!

  • We know you have probably heard it 1000 times but, wash your hands!!!! Every Time you have to leave your house or come into contact with other people make sure you are washing your hands for 20 seconds to rid yourself of bacteria and possible viruses!
  • Limit exposure to possible infection!
    • The most important thing right now is limiting your possibility of exposure to infection. This protects not only you but your family and those in your community that are more at risk.
    • Only leave your house for the grocery store, essential appointments or if your job is considered essential!

#2 Try to Stay Calm!

  • Staying calm during this time is essential to not only your mental health but your respiratory health. Stress and anxiety can cause rapid breathing and shortness of breath. We know there are many stressors and uncertainties in everyone’s lives right now so we want to provide you all with tips to help ease your stress.
    • Meditate and practice deep breathing! Download apps such a Calm and Headspace that will lead you through your meditation or breathing exercises.
    • Limit your news intake! We know the information overload right now can lead to stress and while it is important to know what is going on try to limit yourself to watching or reading the news once a day!
    • Exercise! Get your body moving! Exercise releases endorphins that reduce the effects of stress and can improve your mood!
      • Follow us on instagram as we will be sharing how some of out memebers are still getting in their exercise at home! https://www.instagram.com/thriveproactivehealth/
      • In the following weeks we will be posting specific exercises that can be done at home that will incorporate breathing exercises! Make sure you look out for our future blog posts!
  • Check out the CDC’s helpful information on how to reduce you and your families stress during this time.

#3 Use Essential Oils! 

Did you know that certain essential oils contain elements that have immune boosting and protecting properties? We have provided some of our favorites and links to purchase them without leaving the house!

  • Eucalyptus Globulus is widely known for its ability to reduce or eliminate harmful surface and airborne bacteria, and infections upon contact. Eucalyptus Globulus has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and stimulating qualities, among other valuable properties.
    • Here is an easy link for purchase from Amazon.
  • R.C. provides a refreshing respiratory experience when applied to the chest. R.C. is a powerful blend of Spruce, Cypress, and three types of Eucalyptus oils (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora) which support respiratory health.
    • Here is an easy link for purchase from Amazon.
  • Rosemary Oil is known to support the respiratory system and reduce stress levels.
    • Here is an easy link or purchase from good ole amazon.
  • Eucalyptus Radiata has been known to help provide relief from respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis and upper respiratory colds.
    • Here is an easy link for purchase from Amazon.

#4 Schedule a Raindrop Massage or Fire Cupping!

  • Raindrop Massage:
    • Our certified Aromatherapist and Massage Therapist, Chantal, practices Young Living’s Raindrop Massage Technique®. This technique uses a combination of essential oils in a specific order that are known to have properties that support the respiratory system.
    • Young Living’s proprietary Raindrop Technique® combines unique, targeted massage and energy approaches with pure, authentic essential oils for a deeply harmonizing, rejuvenating, and relaxing experience. Check out Young Living for more information!
  • Fire Cupping:
    • Aromatherapy used in conjunction with a Fire Cupping session is known to have important benefits such as boosting and protecting the immune system from respiratory conditions. Check out the video below to see what to expect in a Fire Cupping session!

Call us at (757) 416-6700 to schedule an appointment!

#5 Reduce Inflammation!

  • Lung inflammation can cause tight airways, restricting proper breathing. Inflammation can be reduced by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet such as the following!
    • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon, tuna, walnuts or chia seeds.
    • Vitamin E: Dark leafy greens are extremely high in this such as; collards, spinach, and kale.
    • High antioxidants: Blueberries, nuts, strawberries and goji berries.
    • Reduce your processed sugar intake! High sugar diets have been linked to high inflammation in the body.
    • Drink a lot of water! Increasing your water intake can help reduce the mucus that accumulates in your lungs on a daily basis. The buildup of mucus can restrict your airways.
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