Spring Allergies & the Inflammation Connection
Hi Friend,
Spring is in the air—and for many of us, so are the sneezes, itchy eyes, sinus pressure, and that extra layer of fatigue. But seasonal allergies aren’t just a reaction to pollen. They’re also a sign that your body is inflamed and working overtime to stay balanced.
In this week’s newsletter, I’m breaking down the link between allergies, inflammation, and the nervous system—and sharing some of my favorite ways to feel clearer, calmer, and more like you this time of year.
Why Do Allergies Hit So Hard in Spring?
Allergies are your immune system’s way of responding to something it sees as a threat—like pollen, dust, or mold. Instead of brushing it off, your body goes into defense mode. Cue: congestion, sneezing, brain fog, fatigue, and even puffy joints and swollen calves.
What many people don’t realize? This immune response kicks off inflammation that spreads throughout the body, not just your sinuses. If you're already under stress, not sleeping well, or have gut imbalances, your symptoms can feel even more intense.
What Inflammation Feels Like in the Body:
Puffy face or eyes (especially in the morning)
Brain fog or trouble focusing
Jaw, neck, or temple tension
Achy joints or heaviness in the body
Swollen calves or feet
Muscle cramps or charley horses while sleeping
Bloating or sluggish digestion
Feeling “wired but tired” or unusually fatigued
Sound familiar? These are signs your body is trying to protect you—but it’s also asking for support.
My Go-To Practices to Feel Clearer During Allergy Season
1. Lymphatic Movement First Thing in the Morning
This helps drain inflammation from the face and sinuses. Even 2-3 minutes can make a difference.
Try:
Neck rolls and gentle shoulder shrugs
“Face flossing” with fingers or gua sha
Cat-cow to boost circulation
2. Breathe Through Your Nose, Not Your Mouth
Mouth breathing (especially when congested) can trigger more inflammation and stress.
Repeat to help open nasal passages and re-establish nasal breathing. Try this reset:
Breathe in through your nose, then out
Pinch your nose and hold
Gently nod or sway
When you feel the urge to breathe, release and inhale slowly
3. Anti-Inflammatory Favorites in My Kitchen
Local honey: Helps your body adapt to regional pollen
Ginger + turmeric tea: Natural inflammation fighters
Omega-3s: From chia, flax, walnuts, and salmon—great for brain fog and joint relief
Nettle tea: A gentle, supportive antihistamine
4. Don’t Skip Sleep & Stress Support
Your nervous system and immune system are closely linked. When you're in "go mode" 24/7, your body
can't regulate inflammation. Try:
Warm compresses on your eyes or face
Legs-up-the-wall pose
4-7-8 breathing
Sleeping with an air purifier or sinus steam nearby
Remember: You’re Not Broken—Your Body is Responding
Allergy symptoms aren’t a sign something’s wrong with you. They’re your body’s way of saying, “I need a little help here.”
Instead of powering through the fog, try slowing down and tuning in. Gentle movement, hydration, and calming rituals
can help you feel clearer and more at ease this season.
Let me know if you try any of these—or if you have your own spring rituals! And if you need more support, our Corrective
Collective platform is here with flows that target the nervous system and support every zone of the body—because every
system is connected.
In love & alignment,
Maddie
