5 Sensual Comforts When You’re Sick with a Cold
Have you ever had a moment when your body gives you a “time out”?
You’ve been going going going, and finally your body demands you come to a full stop by contracting a cold, or something worse?
Well, that happened to me this week. After all the busyness of my move to New York City, I got smacked down with a big, fat, juicy rhinovirus.
Sensuality, like most things in life, is cyclical. There are peak moments and there are valley moments.
Being sick with a cold is most definitely a valley moment.
That said, there are some tried and true ways to seek comfort yourself when feeling crummy, and assist your body in faster healing, through the power of the senses.
1. Hydrate dry, flaky skin with a healing mask
Ever look in the mirror during a cold and just say…”Yikes”? When you’re sick you lose fluids more rapidly, leading to dry, flaky, reddened skin. We all know the adage “drink plenty of liquids”, but even when you increasing your fluid intake, your skin is the last organ to receive that hydration. Additionally, most colds happen in the winter when the air is naturally more dry.
To combat this I recommend a hydrating, healing mask to help your skin stay fresh and hydrated. My favorite is Multi-Vitamin Power Recovery Mask by Dermalogica. It’s one of my desert island products - one that I can’t live without! It’s healing, anti-inflammatory, and gives my skin a palpable glow every time I use it. Typically you’ll want to use it once or twice a week, but during a cold I use this mask every day for intensive repair.
2. Add Lemon Essential Oil to your rotation
We all know a eucalyptus bath can help open your sinuses, but I encourage you to add lemon when you’re under the weather. Lemon is not only a powerful anti-bacterial, it is also a lymphatic stimulant so it helps boost your immune system. Several direct inhalations a day, plus diffusing it into the air is a great way to help your system stay strong.
3. Give yourself a facial steam
I don’t recommend this if you’re feeling feverish, but once the worst has passed and you’re feeling sufficiently stir crazy, give yourself a facial steam! Toss a tablespoon of dried herbs into a big bowl of hot water and a create a tent with a towel. I like this one from Mountain Rose Herbs that has Comfrey, Chamomile, Rose and Sweet Orange. This is also an awesome treat for your skin!
4. Give yourself a cough relieving massage
Apply a natural eucalyptus balm like this one to the chest, and then perform these two simple movements.
Starting at the center of the chest, apply deep pressure with the fingertips outwards towards the underarms. Start at the sternum (breastbone) and work your way up to the clavicle (collarbone).
Make a fist and with the thumb side, lightly tap your fist over the lungs and chest to loosen up congestion.
5. Meditate
When sick and stir crazy, my mind turns very negative. Having a meditation practice where I consciously observe my thoughts rather than getting consumed by them helps me stay positive and optimistic. Want a little assistance? Check out the Sensual Living Meditation Album.
What are your favorite ways to treat your body with extra TLC when you’re sick? I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
With love and zinc,
Mary