Swine Flu or as the government would prefer that we call it Influenza A H1N1 is on everyone’s mind. My patients are calling with questions asking if Oriental Medicine can help them if they should come down with it and what they can do to prevent it. First let me say that this blog is not meant to replace medical treatment. Please call your doctor immediately if you have any of the symptoms.
Swine Flu is a respiratory disease and most masks do not offer enough protection as the virus is small enough to slip right through. However, since the focus of Oriental Medicine is prevention. I would like to mention a technique which I recommend to my patients.
Nasal irrigation is an ancient Ayurvedic technique known as jala neti, which literally means nasal cleansing with water in Sanskrit. It has been practiced in India for centuries as one of the disciplines of yoga.
Directions: In a Neti Pot (also spelled Netti) put one teaspoon (5g) of sea salt dissolved in 16 oz of warm water, lean over a sink with your head bent forward and tilted to one side and pour the solution through the upper nostril. It will come out of the lower nostril along with any mucous that may be present in the nasal passages. Breathe through your mouth while doing this. Repeat the process with the other nostril. If you find the salt too irritating you may add a little sodium bicarbonate. You should test different saline solutions to see which is right for you.
This will flush out excess mucus and debris and moisten the mucus membranes of the nose. Those with allergies will find this practice soothing.
Neti Pot
It also cannot be said enough times; please wash your hands – for as long as it takes you to sing Happy Birthday.
Feng Shui
Tip: Place a mirror in your dining room at a level reflecting the dining room table. This symbolically doubles the food on the table. The abundance of food predicts prosperity.
Taboo: Never place a mirror inside facing your front door. The good energy coming inside your home would then be reflected back outside.
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