Notes from the Lake

Oh, it is that time of year - and no, it's not the holidays or spring. You can always herald its coming by the sniffles of those around you. Where you live, it may just be cold season, but for those who live in Austin, we have come upon "cedar fever". I am fortunate that I haven't lived here long enough to be affected, but I see the suffering of those around me. Nevertheless, here are a few at-home tips from a massage therapist to make your life more comfortable.

1. Steam – Steaming your sinuses allows for you to breathe deeper. Most of us do not have a steam room at home, but this tip can be done in your kitchen. Boil several cups of water and pour them into a large bowl. Cover the back of your head with a towel and lean over the bowl.  Breathe deeply for five to ten minutes. Adding a few drop of eucalyptus oil or rosemary to the water will also help clear your sinuses while giving you the "steam room feel".

2. Take a hot bath (around 100 to 110 degrees). Fill the tub with Epsom salts to help detoxify the body or use a bath oil specifically designed for decongesting.

3. Have a cup of peppermint tea. Peppermint is a wonderful decongestant as it has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. To make best use of your tea, seep dried peppermint leaves into hot, sippable water.

4. Eat food high in horseradish, which also helps clear the sinus passages. For the sushi lovers, that means pile on the wasabi!

5. Massage your sinus and their pressure points. The pressure points are located above your eyebrows and at the tips of your toes and fingers.

6. Roll up a few bath towels so that the roll is about 12 inches thick and the length of your spine. Place the roll underneath your spine and lay back. Relax your chest and head while allowing them to sink toward the floor. This will help alleviate any back pain caused by constant sneezing and coughing.

Try one of these tips and let us know if you are breathing easier this season!