Much can be said about Corona, but the ripple effects of the contractions and expansions are leading us into deeper into (and hopefully out of) the woods for answers, and sending us on a collective medicine journey of dimensions. We are not only confronted with our own values and ways, but also of how we rely on - and treat Nature. Are we choosing fear or love? Disease or ease? Depletion, sustainability or regeneration? Many elders believe we are in the midst of humanity’s ‘rite of passage’ - a recalibration of our compass, which will broaden our vision, deepen our connection to self, the Earth, and to the larger community of all beings. There are many more reflections to be made once the (star)dust settles, but I want to focus on some of the ways you can strengthen your immune system in your dialogues with the virus right now.
For me, one of the more fascinating effects of Corona is how it is making me tune ever-more deeply into my own body to listen for symptoms of imbalance.. When the thoughts still in meditation, you can also listen to the currents of our nervous system, pulse of our heart beat, and flow of life force in your body - bringing attention to blockages, numbness and needs. Before the virus broke, I had a very strong craving for oranges (Vitamin C) and grapefruits (anti-viral) that lasted for several weeks - combined with fasting and frequent enemas with lemon and Chamomile. As if the body was preparing for a wave of unprecedented force.
Last summers harvest brought tinctures of Rose root, Chaga, Mugwort and Dandelion Root - which (I have more left if anyone is interested) are all natural immune boosters and detoxifiers from our wild Norwegian realms (and gardens). If you are already on your Ayurvedic diet, adapted to your body’s dosha/signature - you will be able to feel the signs of dis-ease before they take root, but most people are not used to navigating this way. I can therefore recommend additional anti-virals (Siete Hervas, Tumeric, Tea Tree, Echinecea) and eating non-processed plant-based meals to support your own body’s cleansing mechanisms. The Ayurvedic herbal remedies Ashwaganda and Triphala are also known to strengthen the immune system and gut flora. I have been taking CBD-drops which dampen inflammation, and relax the nervous system, helping me to tune into the endocannabinoid receptors (cell-signalling system) and open the boundaries of my ecology with warmth and love so I am not in a fight-or-flight contraction - and can better tune into the deeper needs of my inner gardens. Hot lemon water is another key - try adding some himalayan salt for managing your body’s delicate pH balance and reducing cellular toxicity.
Immersing yourself in Nature’s own immune system allowing your body to absorb wholeness from Nature is also a way to restore harmony. Practices such as forest bathing connects you to Nature’s own electrical circuits, and allows the Standing People (trees) to shower you in their ‘natural killer cells’ and terpene aromas, which promotes strong immune system health, has anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective effects and eliminates virus-infected cells.
As the Norwegian Crown takes a steep fall, the green Crowns of Pine, Oak and Birch are opening to welcome the Grace of Gaia. Maybe yours will too? BREATHE. MOVE. DANCE. CONNECT with the EARTH, your brothers and sisters, family and beloveds.. I will be offering forest therapy in smaller groups and virtual forest therapy sessions soon.. Follow Norwegian Sage for updates..
Would LOVE to hear your reflections and teachings for building strong immune systems in these times. What have been your greatest lessons so far?
Photo: Kamishikimi Kumano-imasu Shrine, Shinto shrine in Takamori, Japan