Spring allergies are a thing and they’ve gotten worse in the past few years. My understanding is that global warming affects the natural processes of the earth which in turn affect the way our immune system is supported by our body. In parts of the world where we have the 4 seasons, it’s important for it to get cold enough for the ground to freeze. I’ve noticed in years where it hasn’t gotten cold enough or we haven’t had enough snow, I experience a version of allergies in the spring when I normally wouldn’t.
Something different happens with the plants and trees that grow from the earth when that freeze doesn’t take place. The ground should have a process of thawing just like we as people do as spring comes around. There’s way more in the air because the living things didn’t get the break they needed. There was no sleep and no vacation.
I just went away for a couple of days with my mom and for the first time, I didn’t explore the culture. I just laid in the sunshine with my books and swam in the water. I can’t tell you how inspired and refreshed I felt upon my return!
So back to your body…. I want to talk about stagnation which to me relates to the lymphatic system. The lymph is part of the immune system that helps fight off infections by balancing the fluid in the body. When we’re feeling stuck, whether it’s mental, physical or emotional, it’s harder to move or take action. This can happen when stuff piles up because we haven’t gone through our normal processes. Over time more things get added to the pile and then it’s either too overwhelming that we avoid it or we’re forced to seek professional help in order to feel better because we can’t do anything else.
If you think of your lymph as a way to strengthen your immune system, then moving the lymph can be a way of keeping things flowing so they don’t get stuck and hinder your healing. Also, you’ll have more energy once things are moving better.
Ways to move the lymph:
Dry brush (3 minute sequence in this month’s video)
Exercise (walking counts and swimming is great)
Avoid long periods of sitting or make sure you get up and walk around regularly (I know it’s hard to prioritize but I believe in you)
Deep breathing (also in this month’s video)
Drink enough water (you’ll feel a difference once you’re consistent in not having to moisturize your lips and also great poops in the morning once you find the amount that works for your body)
Avoid tight fitting clothes and opt for natural fibers if you’re noticing stagnation (I noticed I would have pitting edema on my sock line at the end of the day that stayed for a bit)
Lymphatic drainage massage is so beneficial if you struggle with swelling. I have a great referral if you need!
Incorporate kelp or seaweed in your diet because of the minerals. I add kombu when I make beans in my instant pot to avoid gas since it softens the tough fibers and makes digestion easier.
Issues in the lymph can also feel like a body that aches all over. You may feel stiff and sluggish or bloated. Doing exercise or dry brushing before a shower, bath, or infrared sauna is the best time as it supports your body’s process of clearing out toxins. If you’ve had mold poisoning or are getting off a medication, this is a great way to support the process faster. If you’re recovering from mold poisoning, you definitely need guidance because there are a lot of moving parts and you want to be specific and do things safely.
If you’re someone who’s often sick, has a weakened immune system or struggles from allergies, these are great techniques to try and see how your body responds. Rebounding can also help with the lymph but I haven’t tried it. What are your thoughts and experiences?