I survived the COVID-19 vaccine (easily) and here's what I did

​By Karen Carnabucci, LCSW, TEP

Although I’m trained in clinical social work, mental health and the experiential healing arts, I do have a big interest in physical health.
My own health, of course. And other people’s health, because I work with people and feel a great responsibility to provide accurate and useful information about health options, including the greatly awaited and wildly heralded COVID-19 vaccine.

Admittedly, I was not first in line for the vaccine. I've historically had a healthy skepticism to the arrival of every new medication on the market. I like to do my research and wanted to watch for side effects as vaccinations began in the United States.  I’ve been keeping close watch on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website and other reputable sources for news on pandemic numbers, variants and treatments and talked with medical professionals that I trust, including my naturopathic doctor.  Having just sailed past number two of two vaccinations, here are a few tips that I’ve learned that may make your vaccination easier to receive:
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Get arnica. Arnica, sometimes called Arnica Montana, is a common homeopathic remedy that I’ve used to heal bruises, black and blue marks and general body and muscle stiffness (like shoveling snow or over-working in the garden) for years. It is an over-the-counter remedy and comes in tiny pellets or small pills as well as a cream or gel for topical use. It used to be available at only natural food stores and natural health stores but in recent years has become more mainstream and is often found in regular drug stores and of course online. I use the Boiron brand.

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