Healthy Habits

As trees begin to bloom, not to mention lack of fresh air and dust collected at home during winter; allergies and respiratory problem start knocking at everyone’s door. The image of spring cleaning in classic movies comes alive: carpets beaten to death, windows covered in foamy soap, boxes of blankets and quilts stored until next season…  
When we experience recurring sniffling and cold-like symptoms, its time for deep dusting our home and get an old fashion humidifier!

Place facial tissue boxes and hand sanitizer bottles throughout the house. Place picture of your child washing hands next to bathroom sink, as reminder to wash hands frequently.



Wear a mask to engage in springtime dusting. Using a microfiber duster, clean all surfaces, furniture, bookcases and shelves, specially in bedrooms, clean door frames and fans with a wet cloth using a mixture of water and vinegar and, if possible, order a professional air ducts cleaning company to clean air-conditioning and heating ducts. Deep vacuum entire house.  Strong detergents will irritate respiratory tracks; but liberating the house from dust will make a big difference, breathing healthier.

My father used to boil a pot of eucalyptus leaves, letting its smell through the house to ease breathing. Many cultures believe aromatic oils keep bad spirits away; but I am not dispensing medical advice here. Children under two years of age should not directly inhale aromatic vapors or be rubbed with it.

Nowadays, we have access to inexpensive long lasting vaporizers, cool and hot ones, helping maintain appropriate humidity levels, thus helping breathe better. Dropping a couple drops of eucalyptus or menthol oil, is known to help ease congestions.  I use a hot humidifier if having head and chest congestion and a cool humidifier to maintain a comfortable humidity level around the house, throughout the year.