Hista-Me-Time
We spend most of our day on tasks – housework, shopping, work, etc. And all of that is important, but there's one thing you mustn't forget: yourself! That's why me-time is essential.
What is "me time" and why do I do it?
Me-time is a modern expression for taking time for yourself. There are many different ways to relax during me-time – and this can have a very positive effect on histamine intolerance. That's why this blog post offers ideas and descriptions for your own personalized histamine me-time routine. You might even create your own routine that incorporates me-time tools.
How can I do something good for my body?
Drink still, low-sulfate water.
The best time to do this is right after waking up. It's helpful to have a glass of still water next to your bed. This is a great way to establish a routine. Always remember: histamine is water-soluble!
Oil pulling in the morning (before still water)
Oil pulling promotes detoxification in the body. You swish the oil around in your mouth and over your teeth in the morning before brushing. Start with a teaspoon of oil. After 10 to 20 minutes, spit out the oil, ideally into a cloth, which you then dispose of in the trash. Rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth.
Oil pulling causes toxins and bacteria to accumulate. If the oil starts to taste strange or foam, you should spit it out and perhaps take another teaspoonful. This is because a large number of toxins can accumulate in the oil in a short time, and the oral mucosa should not reabsorb the bacteria.
Which oil can you use for oil pulling?
You can use special pulling oils or high-quality, cold-pressed sesame oil (as used in Ayurveda), olive oil, rapeseed oil, linseed oil or virgin coconut oil.
meditation
Meditation relaxes your entire body and can even lower histamine levels. It makes your body more alert, your mind more focused, and helps you think more positively. There's no right or wrong way to do it; just focus on yourself.
Create a cozy atmosphere where you feel comfortable, perhaps light a candle, straighten your spine, let yourself be carried away, and close your eyes – shift your mindset. You can either enjoy the silence, listen to relaxing music, or a guided meditation. Just 5-10 minutes can be enough to relax your body and lower your histamine levels.
Breathing exercises
To energize your cells and relax, breathe consciously in and out. This will increase your concentration and reduce inner tension. Calm, full breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system (the body's "brake pedal"), allowing your body to switch into relaxation mode very quickly.
Positive affirmations
Help your cells regenerate and boost your health with positive affirmations. This happens through neural connections. This is something you can easily make a habit of.
Say positive affirmations to yourself, repeat them, and let the negative thoughts disappear. For example, transform the thought
"I don't want to be sick."
in
"I am healthy.".
Walking in nature
Walks in nature make us happy, keep us fit and healthy, and help us relax. You can decide exactly how you want to spend your walk – do you want to walk in complete silence and let nature work its magic on you? Or would you prefer to listen to your favorite songs and simply enjoy the fresh air? There are no limits to your preferences; mindfully enjoy your "hista-me-time"!
Drink low-histamine tea
It sounds simple, but it shouldn't be underestimated: Consciously holding your warm, fragrant tea in your hand is relaxing on the one hand, and on the other hand, certain types of tea can have a histamine-reducing and/or mast cell-stabilizing effect.
Examples of low-histamine teas include: chamomile tea, peppermint tea, tulsi tea, hibiscus tea, …
Gratitude exercises
You can take a few minutes each day to reflect on yourself and your day.
- What are you grateful for today?
- What did you do well? What are you proud of?
- What made you smile today?
This can be done simply by writing it down in a corner of your planner, in the notes app on your phone, or in a special gratitude or happiness journal. The main thing is that you take time for yourself and observe and reflect on the day.
Sufficient sleep
This point also sounds trivial, but it's so important! Sleep has a positive effect on your histamine levels and your immune system.
Think consciously about what you value in the evenings, what's important to you. Could you perhaps do without one thing and go to bed earlier? Don't put yourself under pressure, simply be aware of what you and your body need more right now.