Convalescence
Convalescence - the gradual recovery of health and strength after illness. Sadly, the art of convalescence is something that has been lost over time. In the past convalescence was deemed as part of the illness itself and you would not return to normal duties until you had completed this process. Of course, these days no one has time for this and the pressures of modern day living means that as soon as the disease or illness has been suppressed enough or 'knocked on the head' then it's back to work we go. The problem with this is that the illness is likely to return, quickly and most often with more force and, more importantly, returning too soon results in the spread of germs.
The cold that never really goes away, struggling to get up in the morning, unable to concentrate/brain fog, aches and pains and feeling irritable. Sound familiar? If you really think about it you will know this is because you've not given your body enough time to rest and recover. So how do we do convalesce...
Sleep - stay in bed to rest and sleep as much as you can, even when you start to feel better ensure you go to bed before 10pm and ensure you are getting at least 8 hours sleep, the body needs this time to rejuvenate and repair
Stay warm - cosy blankets and a hot water bottle - build a nest Gentle exercise - when you feel able do no more than 15 minutes per day, can be basic stretches, yoga or a short walk - this will help you get a better sleep at night
Diet - your are looking to achieve maximum nutrition whilst giving the digestive system a rest so bone broths, light soups, vegetable juices and smoothies are ideal - eggs and fish will provide enough protein
Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, sugar and nicotine as these will only deplete the body further
Herbs
Nettles - nutrient and mineral rich - a tonic for the blood and bones
Cleavers - possibly the best tonic for the lymphatic system (helps rid the body of toxins and waste & transports lymph, a clear fluid that contains white blood cells, around the body)
Warming herbs such as Ginger and Cinnamon for digestion and circulation
Adaptogenic herbs such a Withania or Rhodiola for immune function and to nourish the nervous system
For colds and flu use equal parts Yarrow, Peppermint and Elderflower as a tea- this traditional go to blend will induce perspiration, settle the stomach and aid circulation
For sore throats use strong infusions of Thyme, Sage or Oregano as a gargles
Incorporate these herbs into your diet, thereby, using food as medicine and tailor your herbal tea blends to suit your specific symptoms
The most important aspect is time. Post-viral syndrome and adrenal fatigue are conditions that appear the rise. I can't tell you how many people I encounter in my clinic with these presentations. Although complex, nearly all will have had a serious illness or infection in the past that they did not have the time to fully recover from. It's not always easy to find or allow yourself this time but even if you can manage an extra couple of days and follow the above steps then you will benefit from this enormously in the long run.
