How to Overcome Complex Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
Stage 1: The Immune System
Fig. 1: "The Smolder Cycle."
When we have chronic inflammation, we get caught up in a vicious loop that creates the majority of our pain, fatigue, brain fog and other symptoms.
The very first step is to pattern-interrupt the rampant immune dysfunction.
We must flush out and eliminate the majority of hidden pathogens, thereby decreasing the body’s need for chronic inflammation, and ultimately get the immune system running more efficiently.
Most therapies that interact with the immune system are designed to either suppress or boost it.
In complex chronic conditions, both of these uni-directional approaches will ultimately do more harm than good.
The only way to get the inflammation down for good is to work *with* the immune system by using methods to create a smarter, more organized Immune Response.
We reduce inflammation, not by suppressing it with anti-inflammatories, but instead activating pathways in the body that help the immune system to actually resolve the inflammatory cycles.
This means the protective systems of your body become more efficient. Pathogens get attacked and eliminated, with much less collateral damage.
How do we do this?
In Stage 1 we use herbs and practices that have been shown to:
- Decrease Inflammation
- Enhance Immune Specificity
- Be Antifungal
- Be Antiviral
- Be Antibacterial
- Kill Spirochetes
- Counter Mold Toxins
- Interrupt Viral Replication
- Regulate Gut Bacteria
- Increase Lymphatic Flow
- Dissolve Biofilms
- Regulate Liver Enzymes for Detoxification Pathways
Additionally you are trained to use specific breathing patterns to regulate gasotransmitters such as Nitric Oxide (NO) for a more effective immune response .
An added benefit here is that in the future if you ever feel a flare coming on, you can use these techniques to mobilise your own immune response right there on the spot, using nothing more than the air around you. It’s truly remarkable.
In Stage 1 we are actively working on balancing the immune system, in essence patching the protective roof, walls and windows of our house. This is a crucial first step towards real healing. Creating a safe internal environment.
Typically 2-3 weeks into Stage 1 we know changes are taking hold by observing the following signs:
- Wandering Pains Decrease or Go Away Entirely
- Energy Level Improves
- Sensitivity to Weather is Decreased
- Energy level Improving
- Body Temperature Begins to Regulate
- Improvement in Mental Clarity is Common Here as well.
Many people that we work with have such low grade inflammation that they always feel like they’re coming down with a mild flu. Those flu-like symptoms typically resolve in 2-4 weeks during Stage 1.
In cases of heavy pathogen load, such as Lyme, a Herxheimer response is possible in the first two stages, and serves as a great signpost that we are on the right track.
You may notice increased bowel activity as your liver and large intestine begin to flush out pathogens. Some people experience pathogen venting in the form of a mild and temporary skin rash. This is an excellent sign.
Remember that the skin is the largest organ, and the pores are an effective means of elimination for the body.
Typically the rashes only last a few days if they come. Try not to scratch them.
Personal Growth
The immune system regulates the boundaries of the body, defining our sense of self and other. And what relationships are and aren't appropriate.
When pathogens such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, mold spores attack, it is the job of the immune system to stand up for ourselves and our right to exist.
Interestingly, as people complete stage 1, we often find their interpersonal boundaries becoming more defined and healthy.
The way you interact with others begins to change for the better, and loved ones begin to take notice of your newfound sense of power and self respect.