NERD ALERT: DR. B’s checking in!
Hi beauties,
Dr. B, here! I know it’s been a little while since my last Nerd Alert. Thank you for your patience! As you know, things have been a little different lately. Clearly, that’s an understatement… in my two decades in healthcare, I have never seen anything like this.
For the last few weeks, I have been busier than ever with patients. Many people are sick, and we are trying to figure out how to get them tested, and where they should receive care. And, while many patients are seeing silver-linings and finding balance through all of this, others are feeling stressed. Since increased stress can suppress the immune system, here is what I am telling them:
Move your body. Ancient healers recognized it was important to heal our emotional bodies with side to side movements in opposing directions. For example, long walks while intentionally swinging your arms was prescribed to help heal emotional wounds. Now with modern science, we know this sort of movement stimulates and balances parts of the brain that help us process grief and trauma. In addition, research shows aerobic exercise has been linked to improving the symptoms associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. So, take a brisk walk each day to support and balance your nervous system, and if you want to incorporate more movement beyond that, fabulous!! Your immune system will ultimately reap the rewards.
Laugh. Seriously. Science tells us laughter truly is the best medicine. Having a good chuckle each day is shown to support our microbiomes, soothe pain, relax tension, enhance circulation and stimulate organs. It also calms mood and supports your immune system. This is no joke! You really need to do it. Watch a funny movie each day or call a friend who can tell you a joke. (How dirty that joke is, well… that’s up to you.) We want to make you laugh, too. Don’t be surprised if we add funny posts to our Instagram feed, or send you an email just to make you smile.
Sleep. I know my mantras on sleep feel like lather, rinse, repeat, BUT sleep is KEY to good health on every level. Your immune system is at its best when you are asleep—The hormone melatonin, which peaks while you sleep, has been shown to enhance immunity and help immune cells regulate themselves more effectively. Sleeping can be difficult if you are anxious and stressed, and this is one of the most compelling reasons I added calming super herbs to SkinTē. Plus, the amino acid glycine in collagen can be calming and sleep-enhancing as well.
Thank you for being part of our TēTribe. Our connection to you feels more and more special each day. We are here for you, and if you need anything don’t hesitate to reach out. We are all in this together, and we will emerge from this stronger and more connected than ever.