Podcast

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. 

Welcome to the second part of my blog series, where we dive deeper into the remarkable world of sleep and explore its impact on our overall well-being and success. As business owners, sleep should be something that we use to our advantage, and yet I believe it is often overlooked and under-appreciated. 

Today, we unravel the hidden secrets of sleep and why prioritizing rest is essential for unleashing our full potential.

In my previous blog, I talked about what happens when we sleep. It’s important to recognize that sleeping is far from a passive process. In fact, it is an incredibly active state that allows our bodies and minds to undergo crucial restoration and important rejuvenation.

One of the fascinating functions of sleep is its role in memory consolidation and cognitive function. During sleep, our brain processes and stores information, enhancing our ability to retain and recall new knowledge. 

Research shows that adequate sleep improves learning, problem-solving, and creativity. It’s like giving our brain the time and space it needs to organize and optimize the information we’ve gathered throughout the day. Just imagine if each day you give your brain space to learn more, have more effective problem solving and be more creative. Those 3 things alone should get you to bed earlier. 

Sleep plays a critical role in regulating our emotions and maintaining optimal mental health. When we lack sufficient sleep, our emotional stability can suffer, leading to increased irritability, mood swings, and difficulty managing stress. By prioritizing (quality) sleep, we have better emotional well-being and create a more balanced (and even resilient) mindset.

In addition to cognitive and emotional benefits, sleep is crucial for physical health and vitality. During sleep, our bodies engage in essential repair and rejuvenation processes. Hormones are released to promote tissue growth and muscle repair, supporting overall physical recovery. If you exercise regularly and keep getting small to medium nagging injuries, maybe try going to bed earlier and optimizing you sleep. All above being said, your body will recover better, and less injuries will occur.

In our fast-paced and demanding lives, sleep often takes a backseat as we prioritize our business, our career, family, and other responsibilities. We may sacrifice sleep in pursuit of productivity, thinking that it will give us an edge.

Unfortunately, this approach backfires, as chronic sleep deprivation impairs our cognitive abilities, decision-making, and overall performance.

To harness the power of sleep and unlock our true potential, it’s so important to prioritize quality rest. Establishing consistent sleep routines, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and practicing relaxation techniques before bedtime can greatly enhance sleep quality.

I think I need to mention that it’s not just about the quantity of sleep, but the quality. I feel like if you are getting 8-10 hours of sleep a night, it’s going to work itself into good sleep. You will know if it isn’t a good sleep, and you will proactively reach out for help.

Just ask yourself: How easily do you fall asleep? Do you stay asleep? Do you feel rested when you wake up? You know you better than anyone else. It’s hard for anyone to say how much sleep YOU need. You know how much sleep you need. The average is 7 to 9+ hours of sleep per night. You take it from here.

In part 3, the upcoming final part of this series, I will dive into practical strategies and tips for optimizing sleep habits and achieving a well-rested life.

I challenge you to embrace the power of sleep and unlock a world of improved well-being, heightened performance, and greater success.

If you’d like to receive more sleep-related insights directly to your inbox, sign up on our main blog page. Let’s embark on this transformative journey to better sleep and a brighter future.

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