I don’t know about you but I’m always so happy when spring finally arrives. After a long, cold winter, I welcome the warm sunshine on my face and being able to walk outside without a coat! For me, going barefoot is sheer bliss! I love the smell of fresh-cut grass, the sweet scent of magnolias and the refreshing aroma of pine and cedar.

But spring hasn’t always been that pleasant for me because I’d feel that all-too-familiar itchiness in my nose and throat, my brain would get foggy and my energy level would take a dive. That’s because my body thought that pollen was a “toxic invader” and would trigger allergic reactions that would put an “all-stop” to my ability to enjoy the season! The antihistamines and inhalers that I needed just to get through each day only made me feel worse.

While pollen isn’t a toxin per se, in the past my body perceived it as one largely because it was already overburdened with environmental and chemical irritants. This is why I talk so often about the importance of reducing exposure to synthetic fragrances, harmful chemicals, and processed foods because I know how much better I am today since I switched to a more natural approach. My seasonal allergies have become a thing of the past!

Think of allergies like climbing a ladder. Each exposure to an irritant—whether it's pollen, artificial fragrances, synthetic chemicals in cleaning products, or processed foods—adds another rung to the climb. In the beginning, each step seems harmless. Your body adjusts, compensating for the burden. But eventually, you reach the top—where there are no more steps. This is the tipping point known as toxic overload.

When toxic overload occurs, the body can no longer handle the accumulation of irritants, and symptoms can escalate quickly. What was once mild seasonal allergies might now trigger chronic congestion, respiratory distress, or full-blown immune system dysfunction where the body goes into max defense mode.

It releases histamines to fight off the perceived invader and that leads to inflammation, excess mucus, and other classic allergy symptoms. If your body is already burdened with other toxins—like artificial additives, pesticides, and synthetic fragrances—pollen becomes the final push that sends you over the edge.

Pollen itself is not a toxin in the traditional sense. It’s a natural substance produced by plants for reproduction. However, for those with allergies, the immune system mistakenly treats pollen like a harmful invader, much like it would a toxin.

In addition to reducing exposure to toxins, I’ve learned to nourish my body with fresh, whole foods and to stay well hydrated. I also supplement with essential oils and herbal supplements.

By lowering my overall toxic burden, I can stay on the lower rungs of the proverbial ladder and give my body the breathing room it needs—literally! It IS possible for spring to be a time to enjoy fresh air, not struggle for it.

I’d love to send you my Breathe Easier Guide for a Healthier Respiratory System and share with you ways I’ve found that make it possible to truly enjoy the beautiful springtime. I haven’t needed my inhaler or taken antihistamines for years and I want the same for you if you find yourself sneezing more and enjoying this season less!

Click HERE to get the Guide sent directly to you! Breathe easy, my friend!