Natural Allergy Prevention

Summer allergies can drive us crazy while pollen from grass, weeds and trees fly through the air. These tiny spores can challenge our immune systems, causing our bodies to release histamines that trigger itchy eyes, runny noses and lots of sneezing.

While over-the-counter antihistamines are available to relieve symptoms, there are natural remedies you can try as well, that have fewer side effects. Jazzercise Founder and CEO Judi Sheppard Missett recommends talking with your doctor if your symptoms persist more than one month.

Here are some natural ways to relieve allergies:

Allergy-Proof Your Home
We often think of our home as our safe zone from allergies. But pollens and mold can be trapped indoors as well. Make your home inhospitable for them. Shampoo carpets, and if possible, replace carpeting with wood flooring. Wash all bedding, drapes and upholstery regularly. Change window shades to wood, vinyl or other non-fabric material.

Rinse Off
We might not realize it, but we bring pollens into our homes and offices with us. Wash your hands and face after being outside. Shower before bedtime to wash pollens out of your hair and off your skin.

Filter Your Air
Make sure you’re breathing the most allergen-free air possible by installing HEPA air filters and cleaning your air conditioning filters regularly.

Spice it Up
The heat in certain spices can act as natural decongestants when pollen has you stuffed up. Add chili peppers, hot mustard, horseradish or other heat to your meals.

When allergies get you down, stay indoors as much as possible, especially when it’s windy or dry outside. Keep doors and windows closed in your home and your car. Know that it’s only temporary and try some natural ways to relieve your symptoms.

Judi Sheppard Missett, who turned her love of jazz dance into a worldwide dance exercise phenomenon, founded the Jazzercise dance fitness program in 1969. She has advanced the business opportunities of women and men in the fitness industry by growing the program into an international franchise business that today, hosts a network of 7,800 instructors teaching more than 32,000 classes weekly in 32 countries.

The workout program, which offers a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, cardio box and Latin style movements, has positively affected millions of people worldwide. Benefits include increased cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility, as well as an overall "feel good" factor.  Additional Jazzercise programs include Junior Jazzercise, Jazzercise Lite and Personal Touch.  For more information on Jazzercise go to jazzercise.com or call (800)FIT-IS-IT or (760)476-1750.

Courtesy of Jazzercise, Inc. - jazzercise.com