The body responds to energy. If you’re facing emotional or spiritual crisis, chances are your immune system will soon be a mess. After last Sunday night’s debacle, my glands got swollen and my throat hurt. Then the cold started. Yesterday my stomach gave out on me. So I’m pale and losing a few pounds.

Cleansing is necessary. When I put my altar up in November, I burn sage. After my last huge breakup, I put all the cards and photos through the shredder. My body follows suit. Because from sickness comes health. I like to think of colds, flus, and other bugs as nature’s work of saying, “slow down, rest, cleanse.”

So tonight’s date will have to be postponed. I’m spending the evening with applesauce and a blanket.