A DOSE OF REALITY

by Rebekah Barr, RN

There seems to be an almost continual stream of headlines and news stories about threats to our health and well being i.e. bio-terrorist attacks, epidemics, influenza pandemics, etc. Frequently, information that would balance or mitigate our concerns about the potential health threat is not given, so understandably, we are left to worry. Most of us would agree that it is difficult to function at our best and make wise decisions for ourselves when we are weighed down with fear. I would like to share some facts to broaden perspective and lessen this fear.
Consider biological agents or weapons of mass destruction. Realistically, we can assume that terrorists simply do not have the means or capability to contaminate large areas of the world; otherwise they would have already done so. This view is endorsed by Marc Siegel, M.D. in his book False Alarm, who reminds us that terrorists are not super-human.

It can also be verified through the Center for Disease Control that most biological agents dissipate quickly in the air or easily lose viability when their narrow parameters for life are not met (e.g. ideal amounts of moisture, air and light). Even anthrax, despite all the attention it received in 2001, is difficult to contract - a certain amount of it is required to overwhelm the body’s natural defenses. It was estimated that about 85 million pieces of mail were processed through postal machinery contaminated with anthrax before being shut down. Only 22 people got a dose sufficient enough to cause illness.
On the subject of influenza, the most important fact is that now and as throughout history the majority of people who get the flu recover. And, most flu deaths actually result from complications (pneumonia or bronchitis) that are currently treated with antibiotics. The flu pandemic of 1918 with its reported death toll of between 30 and 50 million occurred before antibiotics were discovered. 
A virus will also frequently ‘run its course’ of which SARS is a good example. To run its course means the virus arises and spreads quickly infecting those who are susceptible, and when there are no more susceptible hosts it dies out. The death toll for SARS was less than 100 worldwide and none of these occurred in the U.S.
No doubt there will always be diseases. And here are two strong points in our favor. One, our immune systems have, all on their own, a natural resiliency and drive to heal. Two, there are concrete things we can do to increase this resiliency and drive thus reducing our susceptibility.

Everyone’s immune system can be bolstered by good nutrition, adequate restorative sleep and an optimistic attitude. Chronic fear grinds down an otherwise healthy immune system.

So for optimum health: stop worrying. Devote large chunks of the day to things you love to do. Laugh a lot and share your joy. Of course, eat nourishing food, get enough rest and drink plenty of water. Wash your hands often using plain soap and water (antibacterial soap may be contributing to bacterial resistance). If you feel yourself coming down with something, go home, rest and take exceptionally good care of yourself. Did I mention, stop worrying?

Rebekah Barr, RN, is an energy worker who addresses the spiritual, emotional, mental and physical connection in her alternative and complementary practice. She also provides assistance in understanding and choosing traditional and non-traditional treatment options. To contact her, call (248) 644-3369.