07/01/2024
Well folks, Here's hoping you are all enjoying a healthy winter and an excellent start to 2024.
A quick word about the high likelihood of catching a bug or 2, (I've got one now in fact).
Even in colder temps try to breathe nasally as much as possible. Your airways will stay more moist and dilated. (That's their way of thanking you for not sucking in a bunch of cold dry air).
Maintain good personal and sleep hygiene, along with frequent hand washing, and you'll cut your own risk and that of those near you quite a bit.
IF YOU DO HAPPEN TO GET SICK, here are a few things to try at home.
1) Wear a breathe rite strip while your sleeping (this will gently open your nostrils to maximize your natural nasal aperture).
2) Consider sinus rinsing. Neti pots are fine, but I prefer Neilmed Sinus Rinse. (Shout out to my crucial stromey Matt Carlson at TCSamuraiArts for introducing me to this a few years back. LIFE-CHANGING). You can buy them at a pharmacy, or off Amazon. Whatever works best for you. They are reasonably priced and a kit generally includes 1 squeeze bottle, and like 50 pre-mixed sachets. Check them out. There are several good YouTube videos on proper usage should you require, but bottom-line, they are simple and effective. They're not even paying me.
Sinus rinsing has been shown to reduce viral load (should a virus be present) in the sinuses.
It goes without saying that none of this info should be substituted for the advice of a medical professional.
Also, I didn't include mask-related info because I know how I roll, and assume you know how you roll, (and if you don't, don't take my word for it).
Fun fact on masks though. For you jocks, (with all the respect), who are familiar with sport masks for restricting airflow during aerobic exercise, a good old fashioned N95 mask is Waaaay cheaper. Think of it as an easy way to dip your feet in on a gently paced walk or light jog, with the added benefit that you won't freak your neighbors out by walking your dog looking like Bane.
Cheers-
