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Bee propolis is a fascinating natural substance that honeybees produce by mixing their saliva and beeswax with resins collected from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanical sources. I found this product at a local market this past weekend. 

Often referred to as “bee glue,” it is a sticky, brownish substance used by bees to seal and protect their hives from bacteria, viruses, and other potential threats.

Propolis has been valued for centuries for its medicinal properties. 

Flavonoids & Polyphenols – These are plant-based antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by stress, toxins, and infections. They’re found in many superfoods (like berries and green tea) and are known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal, and Anti-inflammatory Effects – This means propolis can help fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi (like those that cause infections or sore throats) while also reducing inflammation in the body. This is why it’s used for wound healing, oral health, and immune support.

Common Uses – Because of these properties, people use propolis to strengthen their immune system, heal small cuts or burns, and ease throat irritation, making it a go-to natural remedy during cold and flu season.

One of the standout benefits of bee propolis is its potential to enhance immune response. Studies suggest it can help the body fight infections, making it a popular natural remedy for colds, flu, and oral health issues. 

It has also been studied for its potential role in wound healing, as it can stimulate skin regeneration while preventing infections. Some research indicates it may have antioxidant properties that support overall wellness and even gut health.

The product I found was a bee propolis throat spray, and it is a great natural remedy, especially if you’re dealing with a sore throat, dry throat, or just want some immune support. Since propolis has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, it can help with a range of issues related to the throat and mouth.

Using it regularly can help:

  • Soothe a sore or scratchy throat – The anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce irritation and swelling, making it easier to swallow.
  • Fight bacteria and viruses – Propolis has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help combat infections like colds, flu, or even strep throat.
  • Support oral health – It can help with canker sores, gum inflammation, and even minor mouth wounds, thanks to its healing and antimicrobial effects.
  • Coat and protect the throat – If you talk a lot, sing, or just deal with a dry environment (hello, Calgary winters!), it can create a protective barrier and keep your throat from getting too dry or irritated.
  • Boost immunity – Since it has immune-supporting flavonoids and antioxidants, it can help your body fight off infections before they take hold.

 

You can use it preventatively (like before heading into crowded places during flu season) or at the first sign of a sore throat. Some people even use it daily as a natural immune booster. Just be mindful if you have a bee allergy, as propolis can trigger reactions in some individuals.

As business owners, we can prioritize everything and everyone else before ourselves, but the truth is, you are the most valuable asset in your business. Keeping your health in check isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about ensuring you have the energy, resilience, and clarity to lead, create, and grow. 

Whether it’s adding small wellness habits like using a propolis throat spray or simply recognizing when your body needs support, investing in your well-being is an investment in your success. After all, a thriving business starts with a thriving you. 

I have never been overly athletic. I’ve always been active, but never the star of the team. I played womens soccer for years, and let’s just say that I didn’t take the penalty shots, or spear head any great comeback. I worked hard, but don’t have a lot of natural talent. And so, I learned early on that the talent I lack can be made up for by working hard. So I did that.

I married a very athletic man. Vince played rugby for 30+ years, he is a very good mountain biker, he runs Ultra marathons, and he has always been great at any sport he tries. Annoying? Kind of. When we hike, I’m always at the back. He’s always waiting for me on trail, and I laugh it off – but come on. Just one time I’d like to give him the “you’re doing great” speech. 

Recently I started my coaching practice, and I am encouraging my clients to push themselves. Try something new. Don’t hold back. But the thing is, then I have to look in the mirror and ask myself if I’m doing the same. Walking the walk, as they say.

I listened to a podcast that asked the question, “is your mind in control of your body? Or is your body in control of your mind?” That question hit home for me, because I like to think my mind is strong, and it is in control. Except, when I am honest, I have quit quite a few things in the past few years that have gotten hard. Or uncomfortable. And so, maybe my body is controlling more than I realize. 

Enter running.

As I said above, I have never considered myself an athlete at all. I did run a half marathon back in 2002, almost died. Iced my knees for 5 days afterwards. It hurt. And I had no aspirations of ever doing it again. I’m older now and much wiser. 

So, I decided to start running. I mean it’s only putting one foot in front of the other. Consistently. For as long as you can. (Mind over body and all).

I’ve learned a few things about life, and so I have now completed my second run. But with a few adjustments in how I approach this new phase of life.

Here is what I’ve done differently.

    1. Hire a coach. I didn’t even hesitate with this one. My coach, Sarah, lays out my entire week of training in a program that I follow. I leave my ego at home, and run what she tells me to run. I wouldn’t even consider doing this without a coach. In the past, I would not have thought of a coach – because I’m not an athlete, remember. Turns out, not only the superstars need coaches. We all do. This time, Coach Sarah for the win.
    2. Get good gear. This one comes with time. I understand that not everyone can afford a $200 running vest, but you can source items on FB marketplace, and thelasthunt.ca. Ask around and find out if someone is upgrading or just looking to get rid of extra gear. The running community is pretty close, and so I have found that they are always looking to be supportive of each other. Sometimes all you have to do is ask.
    3. Track your stats. This one requires some sort of Apple Watch, or FitBit solution. But it is quite fun to watch your stats. Even if they just stay the same, it’s proof that you are out there doing what you can. I am on Strava, and so my run is recorded there as well as Apple Health. I love updating my stats, and keeping track. I also track my food. But that goes back to a coach, most coaches will tell you to try to eat as good as you can while you are exercising. Which brings me to my next point.
    4. Eat like you love yourself. This is something that I need to work on. Consistently. I need to eat more protein, and watch what I eat. Mostly I watch it go into my mouth, but if I could do anything better – this would be it. You can hire a dietician and get some ideas, which I did. It helped with understanding what I need. I need 1500 calories a day to blink and breathe. Then add running, or weight training and that number goes up. There are a lot of food tracking apps and platforms out there for free, just remember that it doesn’t have to be fancy.
    5. Leave the ego at home. This one ties into coaching for me. My coach says to run 1 minute, walk 1 minute. That’s what I do. Even if, at the moment, I feel like I can do more. I follow the plan, and the ego is gone. That might come with age, but I think it comes more with experience. And on days when I am tired, or just not feeling it, I can feel the ego start to rise up. So I take 3 deep breaths, and leave it at home. I tell myself that the ego has no place on my run.

I am going to explore running more and more. If anything, it’s 45 minutes by myself.
For myself.
And with myself.
Even if it becomes nothing more than that. And that might be enough. I invite you to continue on this journey with me. No running required. 

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