If you are sick and tired of catching viral infections, you're not alone. Unfortunately, the common cold and flu viruses never went away and never will (despite what so-called "scientists" were saying in the last two years). I'm one of the very few lucky ones who have yet to catch you know what. I have not been immune to catching the cold however, and perhaps even the flu (I can't really tell the difference honestly).
As your singing teacher, vocal health is of prime importance so that I can assist you during singing lessons and we can both perform at our best.
Unfortunately, since I earn my living both as a full-time elementary school teacher and vocal coach, when I'm not teaching singers, I spend my day surrounded by (some drooling) kindergarten kids as young as 3 1/2 years old. This makes me particularly at risk of getting ill.
If you are a parent with young children, you know as well that they bring home all kinds of viruses and it puts you at risk too. Or perhaps you work with a lot of people. Taking public transportation and going grocery shopping also throws you in a potentially risky environment. Finally, unless you stay home alone all the time, and nobody wants any more lockdowns, then you're never really safe.
The solution? Be prepared.
There are a few strategies that consistently help me dodge the cold and flu symptoms that I'd like to share with you. But first, here's my disclaimer: sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. But even when it doesn't work that great, I know that the congestion, sore throat, coughing and vocal loss would have been a lot lot worse had I not taken the steps I'm about to reveal...
The good news is that the following strategies work for me MOST of the time. I'm happy to say that I usually eliminate the symptoms of a developing cold or flu within 72 hours with little to no congestions, runny nose or sore throat.
Always consult your doctor before trying new supplements or medication.
Here's how to do it:
1) Body Awareness
Listen to what your body is telling you. Know the first signs of a cold developing. For example:
-Your nose feels dryer than usual
-There is a burning sensation behind your uvula and soft palate
-Your body aches
2) Stop the Virus in its Track
I've had amazing success with applying Methylene Blue to the back of my throat as soon as I feel dryness or irritation behind my uvula. Dip a cotton swab in Methylene Blue and coat the area around the soft palate and at the back of the throat as much as possible. Methylene Blue is a powerful antiseptic for sore throat as specified on the bottle. It certainly isn't the greatest feeling to reach down there with a cotton swab but it's the best medication I know to stop viral infections from spreading to my nose or lower down my throat. Use as directed only.
3) Contain Any Congestion or Runny Nose
If Methylene Blue wasn't enough and I start experiencing some congestion or a runny nose, I don't wait to see if it's going to go away on its own. I take anti-histamine medication immediately. This prevents infected post nasal drip to slide down my throat and carry the virus lower in the vox box.
4) Alleviate Coughing
My symptoms most often disappear after using Methylene Blue as explained at the 2nd step but when it doesn't and the virus travels all the way to the bottom of my larynx, it sometimes end up causing several weeks of coughing. I used a new syrup this time that was recommended by a client and I quite liked it. It's called Nin Jiom.
Although I felt like I was taking in a spoonful of molasses since the syrup is so thick and the taste very sweet, it was more pleasant than most syrups I have tried. I appreciated that it felt smooth on my throat and that it's completely made of natural ingredients.
5) Increase Your Immune System
It's smart to take supplements to increase your immune system while your body is under the weather and most importantly prior to getting ill to avoid getting sick to begin with. Check out the suggestions below to proactively and naturally repel viruses:
-Zinc
-Vitamin D
-Vitamin C
-Garlic supplements
-Oregano Oil
-Probiotics
Many studies during the pandemic determined that patients who died of Covid-19 had low levels of Vitamin D, C and Zinc. The role they play in overcoming Covid-19 was also confirmed by VaxControlGroup.com which determined that a great majority of unvaxxed people stayed healthy thanks to higher intakes of Vitamin D, C and Zinc.
Garlic is my go to supplement for its ability to fight illnesses. Make sure to buy a brand with allicin, one of the main active compounds.
Oregano Oil capsules have been helpful in getting rid of persistent phlegm after a viral infection. Since they are pretty strong and may potentially destroy not only viruses, bad bacteria in your gut and the good stuff too, it makes sense to re-establish gut balance after taking it as well as other medication and especially antibiotics. Replenish your flora with probiotics and you'll be back on your feet in no time!
My naturopath recommended that I'd take St-Francis Herb Farm Deep Immune so I'm going to give this product a try. The goal is to keep viruses at bay instead of treating symptoms. I have yet to get through an entire fall or winter without catching anything but that would be lovely!
Other than being sick, there is absolutely no reason for you to experience a sore throat. If like me your goal is to sing as much as you can, the threat of viral infections is a serious one. But if vocal fatigue is a situation you have been struggling with, what you may have better control over is your actual vocal technique. Take action now! There is nothing more exciting for a singer than being able to sing higher, louder and more beautifully through his/her entire 3 octave range on command and without straining. Singing mastery is EASY and FUN.
Join me on my FREE masterclass to find out the 5 SIMPLE steps my clients do to achieve EXACTLY that:
I look forward to seeing you healthy, happy and singing your heart out every day!
In health,
Val