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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. 

Have you ever heard someone say that negative thinking won’t get you anywhere? Or maybe people have told you to just stay positive.
Maybe you’ve been told to stop thinking negative thoughts and you’ll be better off. Negative thinking never helps anyone, and it won’t help you.

Well, today I’m here to rock the boat and tell you that negative thinking can play a crucial role in shaping our perspectives, attitudes, and decision-making processes. In other words, negative thinking can be very helpful.

I recently finished Gabor Matte’s book, When the Body Says No. In that book, Matte states that negative thinking is a willingness to consider what is not working.
Simple as that.
What isn’t working?
What needs to change?
What needs to pivot?
Being a positive thinker to the point of ignoring reality and denying negative emotions can be toxic and harmful. It can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of disappointment, frustration and inadequacy. Maintaining a balanced outlook and acknowledging both positive and negative emotions can be much healthier.

Negative thinking can prevent unrealistic optimism (…which by the way, is mostly annoying when it is happening in real time). It also prevents overconfidence, and encourages a more balanced practical view of situations. Negative thinking can actually lead to better decision making in the future. Negative thinking can also help you to avoid big mistakes, allow you to be more aware of potential problems, identify blind spots, and it allows for you to really analyze a situation from all sides.

Now I know that some of you are thinking.
Nope. Not going to do it.
I’m way too positive to let negativity slip into everyday thinking.

Have you heard the term toxic positivity? It actually refers to the unhealthy practice of suppressing or denying negative emotions and experiences. So yah, if you want to be positive I encourage it. Just don’t suppress any negative emotions that are swirling around.
And even though (toxic) positivity seems like a good thing, and it comes from a place of good intention, it can have negative effects on your mental and emotional well-being. It can prevent you from processing and dealing with your feelings, in a very unhealthy way. If you don’t believe me, read Matte’s book. You might be surprised how those negative thoughts and emotions eventually play out.

Oh, and by the way, there is no data to support the health benefits of being overly optimistic.
On the day to day, it leads to an unrealistic perspective, often with the intention of making others feel better. I get that. You don’t want to be that one person who points out what can go wrong, or who points out how this isn’t going to work, or who has to tell someone that their research might have some flaws.

But you know what.
We need you.
We need to have someone who embraces their negative thinking.
And says it outloud.

So, my feedback to you is to embrace those negative thoughts. Be mindful in your responses to people, try not to intentionally hurt anyone’s feelings. But never suppress your emotions. We have earned the right to have negative thoughts, so please don’t hold onto them. 

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