Allergy is far from being just a state of mind, but coping with it becomes easier when it is put into perspective, and when you encourage yourself to follow these 4 tips every day. And even though allergy, at this point, can't be cured, following these suggestions every day will help you keep your allergy at bay.
1. Stay Positive-There's a saying that goes-it could always be worse. And when you're the one suffering with allergy in the middle of the blooming spring or any other time of the year, that's a pretty hard adage to take, and yet it's true. Seeing the glass as half full, rather than half empty, will allow you to enjoy more, worry less, and look forward with anticipation rather than dread. Worrying less means less stress on your body and less stress means your immune system stays stronger which allows you to stay healthier.
2. Take Care of Yourself Physically-Give your body every advantage to stay in top condition. Get plenty of rest each night; stay hydrated with water or fluids that are low in salt and sugar. Maintain a regular routine of exercise. Exercise will not only help you stay fit physically, but will give you an immediate emotional boost, help reduce your stress level, and can even make you feel more relaxed and in control.
3. Quiet Time-Set aside 15 to 20 minutes every day for quiet time for you. This may seem close to impossible with career demands, a busy family life, and schedules that take electronic calendars to keep straight. But carving out these few minutes for you each day can relieve tension and help you cope with whatever the day brings. Quiet time can be as low tech as enjoying a cup of tea in the early morning, lighting a candle, reading a few pages of a book each night before bed, or listening to a CD with sounds of the ocean.
4. Use Your Allergy Management Plan-Your allergist has undoubtedly done tests that have determined your allergy triggers, and based on these results your plan probably includes medication, peak flow monitoring, and an EPI-pen for emergency care. It probably also includes suggestions for environmental control such as dehumidifiers, and air purifiers.
But whatever your plan includes, the most important thing you can do is to stick to it. Consistently following the plan will give you the highest quality of life, and allow you to live life to the fullest in spite of your allergy.