MANILA, Philippines—In going about the business of living, one thing is certain. The constant routine that structures our life may at times need a little fine-tuning. Much like a radio when we are searching for the perfect frequency, there is a desire to get the sound just right.
Here are things that may be small but could impact your health and well-being. They may make you feel better and, possibly, even save your life.
Lower your blood pressure naturally
If you are one of unlucky millions whose blood pressure soars beyond the normal, take heart. There is always hope.
Did you know there are natural ways to control your blood pressure? Tell your doctor you plan to use natural medicine in combination with convention therapy. Here’s how:
Take magnesium supplements. Studies have shown that this mineral, which is found in milk, yoghurt and kefir (a potent probiotic milk protein food), neutralizes stress-induced hormones that hike blood pressure. Take your daily dosage of magnesium or drink half a cup of kefir twice daily. This also calms the nerves and promotes good sleep.
Lose weight. By shedding 10 lb, you will instantly lower your blood pressure.
Walk daily for 30-45 minutes. Regular exercise releases feel-good hormones and promotes weight loss.
Meditate. Prayer and meditation are proven to reduce stress.
Ease stress on your back
You can protect your spine in many ways:
Stretch your back when you wake up in the morning.
Sit on the floor, bring your knees to your chest. Hug your folded legs, hold this position for 10 seconds. Release. Repeat five times.
At the office, sit in a chair. Simultaneously raise both feet 1 inch off the floor. Hold. Repeat 10 times.
If you have back pain and want instant relief, get an ice bag and apply it on the affected area. Better yet, make your own ice roller. Get a paper cup, fill it with water. Allow it to freeze. Once frozen, peel off the paper from the cup. You now have a natural ice roller. Ask someone to roll it over your back for 10 minutes. You will feel a slight numbness, then warmth, and finally instant relief.
See your doctor after this.
Whenever possible, use flat shoes and avoid high heels.
Avoid crossing your legs. It twists your spine.
Sit and stand like a beauty queen, with your back straight at all times.
Keep the fungus away
If you are in the habit of wearing shoes without socks, chances are you may have fungus.
Keep your feet dry by applying cornstarch between your toes daily.
If you have sweaty feet and hands, soak them in the following solutions for 10 minutes:
Tea. In a pail of warm water place two tea bags. Allow water to turn brown. Tea contains tannins that help absorb the excess moisture.
Vinegar. Mix 10 parts water to one part vinegar.
Epsom salts. To remove fungus, mix one gallon of water with 2 tbsp of Epsom salts. A daily soak will prove very effective.
Fight bladder infections fast
The worst thing that can happen to you while on a trip is to suffer a bladder infection. Telltale signs: burning sensation when you urinate, and a frequent urge to urinate even after having relieved yourself. Also, cloudy urine.
Remember, the more often you urinate, the faster you get rid of the bacteria. Try these:
Drink 15 glasses of water daily.
Take one glass of coconut water every three hours.
Drink cranberry juice three times daily.
Drink sambong tea (bluema camphora), which is native to the Philippines. Its leaves made into tea can flush out toxins from your kidneys. Or, take it in tablet form three times a day.
Your meditation for today: “My life will get better day by day.”
Love and light!
Cory Quirino - World of Wellness, the health, beauty and wellness shop opens Friday, Nov. 28, at Virra Mall, Greenhills shopping center. Celebrate Life, Wellness Day 2 p.m. onward. Free admission. Call 4114448, 3718197.
