First off, let me just apologize for the
lack of any new posts or video podcasts last week. To be honest with you, I've lost some
of my mojo. I was so motivated at the end of December finishing the 366 Project
and then continuing it onward into uncharted territory. I'd completed my goal,
run another great marathon and my right hamstring was feeling better for the
first time in six months.
Around mid January I began to get some
serious hamstring and glute pain on the left side. I also caught one of the
worst colds in my recent memory which quickly developed into a sinus infection.
My early pre-season ultra marathon training really suffered. The continuing
onslaught of cold weather and snow took it's toll on me too.
I finally went to see my doctor. After a
five day dose of antibiotics I felt much better. The cough is still slightly there
and I’m still blowing some horrible looking stuff out of my nose. But, my
energy level is beginning to return to somewhat more normal levels.
Over the years I’ve discovered that being
flexible is one of the best skills to have with regards to running and my life.
But, it's one damn hard thing to embrace. My ideas of getting a jump start on
my ultra marathon training have gone up in flames. So, it’s back to starting
over. I wasn’t a total slug when I was sick. I’ve still got a decent base to
work with. I just need to refocus and look on the brighter side of stuff.
Including getting back to writing and video taping. Oh yeah, and stretch more!
What I wanted to discuss today is somewhat
related to being sick. Several years ago, my wife introduced me to something
called nasal irrigation. It sounds really gross I know. Not the nicest of
topics to talk about. But, hear me out. It may be useful to those of us who
enjoy being able to breathe better while running. It's helped me quite a bit.
Nasal irrigation is first mentioned in
ancient Hindu alternative medicine called Ayurveda which
dates to 5,000 BC. There are three basic ways to irrigate your nose. The
simplest is by cupping water into your hands and snorting it into and then out
of your nose. Most people however use something called a “neti pot” with a
saltwater based solution. Finally there’s another process using a string
instead of water called “sutra neti”. I’ve only used the pots. So, that’s what
I’m going to focus on here. Flossing my nose has even less appeal than
irrigating it.
"Neti pots" are commonly made out
of metal, ceramic, glass and plastic. Below is a picture of the plastic pots which
are most common in the US. They typically have a long spout at one end and a
handle on the other. Gravity and the degree of head tilt control the amount of
saltwater solution that flows into your nose, while your mouth is left open to
breathe. This is the type that I first learned how to irrigate my nose with.
They’re a little awkward to use. I never did get very proficient with it.
Modern "neti pots" have been
replaced with softer plastic bottles that have a screw on nozzle. Below is a
picture of that style type, which I use now. A saltwater solution is still
used. But, the amount of flow is controlled by how hard you squeeze the bottle.
Your mouth is still left open to breathe. I like this type much better. It’s
less awkward, easier and faster to use.
No matter which style "neti pot"
you decide to use, both are inexpensive and can be found in most US
Let’s talk about the saltwater solution.
It’s typically a mixture of warmed filtered water and non-idodized salt. Some
companies sell premade packets that also contain a buffering agent like sodium
bicarbonate. Regular tap water isn't usually recommended because it may irritate some
people’s mucous membranes. I’ve used tap water without a problem. I also don’t
use the packets anymore. I just use non-idodized salt by itself. I didn’t
notice any difference without the buffering agent. Both types of pots are
microwaveable and I usually warm the solution for about a minute.
So,
why would you want to try something like nasal irrigation? There’s evidence to
suggest that nasal irrigation can relieve nasal issues associated with the
common cold, allergies and sinus infections. I’ve used it to combat all three
with quite a bit of success. The sensation isn't as bad as you think and can
take some getting used to. The result of doing it can leave some pretty gross
stuff in your sink. The thing that I like most about it is that it’s fairly
non-invasive and doesn't have you putting drugs into your system. If you’re
curious do some research and give it a try. Lots of information out there about them and how to use them. You may be pleasantly surprised and be able to breathe better!
Like I said in a previous podcast, there's no shame in starting over. I still have roughly eight more months to get ready for the next big adventure. There's something nice about having a clean slate again. As always, thank you for your time! Put some miles into your life and
enjoy your day!
No comments:
Post a Comment