Being under the weather means experiencing signs or symptoms of illness, which can range from mild to severe. When you’re feeling unwell, practicing self-care is essential.
From getting enough rest to eating the right foods, taking care of your health can help you recover more quickly and feel better in no time.
1. Rest
One of the most important things you can do when you’re not feeling well is to rest. Your body needs time to heal, and getting enough sleep can help you recover more quickly.
2. Hydrate
It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re feeling sick. Drinking plenty of water, herbal tea, and other fluids can help flush toxins out of your body and improve your overall health.
3. Take Vitamins
Vitamins, especially Vitamin C and Zinc, can help to boost your immune system and help you to recover more quickly when you are feeling under the weather. Be sure to take your daily dose.
4. Limit Screen Time
Too much screen time can make you feel worse. Try to limit your exposure to screens such as computers, phones and tablets when you are under the weather.
5. Keep Your Environment Clean
Make sure your environment is clean and free from any bacteria or germs that could make you feel worse.
Your bedding should be washed regularly, the surfaces of your furniture should be disinfected as often as possible, and any clutter should be cleared away.
6. Use a Humidifier
A humidifier can help to keep the air moist, which can soothe dry throats and help ease congestion. This can help you feel more comfortable and may help you recover more quickly.
7. Eat Healthy Foods
Eating healthy, nutritious foods can help you feel better when you’re not feeling well. Try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
8. Gargle With Salt Water
Gargling with salt water can help to ease a sore throat. Mix half teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water, and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting out.
9. Take a Hot Bath
A hot bath can help to relieve muscle aches and pains, reduce stress, and help you feel more relaxed. Try adding Epsom salts to your bath to help soothe sore muscles.
10. Use a Hot Compress
A hot compress can help to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Apply a warm, damp cloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes, several times a day.
11. Drink Broth and Soups
Broths and soups can help to keep you hydrated while providing important nutrients that can help you recover more quickly. Chicken soup is a classic remedy and has anti-inflammatory properties.
12. Use a Neti Pot
A neti pot can help to cleanse your sinuses and relieve congestion. Fill it with warm water and add salt, irrigate one nostril at a time.
13. Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can help to relieve symptoms such as fever, coughing, and congestion. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and consult a doctor before taking any medications.
14. Do Light Exercise
Light exercise such as stretching or walking can help to improve blood flow and boost your immune system. Just be sure not to push yourself too hard.
15. Stay Warm
Wear warm and comfortable clothing when you are feeling under the weather. This helps to keep you warm and can help to reduce the severity of your symptoms.
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16. Use Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint or lavender, can help to relieve coughing and congestion when they are added to a diffuser or to your bath water, they can be rubbed on your chest too.
17. Use a Saline Nasal Spray
Saline nasal sprays can help to moisturize your nasal passages and relieve congestion. They are also a great alternative to using a neti pot. Use as recommended for best results.
18. Cut Back on Alcohol and Tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off infections. It’s best to avoid them when you’re feeling under the weather.
19. Get Enough Protein
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, so be sure to eat plenty of high-protein foods when you’re feeling under the weather. Some great sources of protein include eggs, fish, chicken, and lentils.
20. Watch Your Sugar Intake
Sugar can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off infections. Limit your sugar intake as much as possible.
21. Take a Break From Work
If possible, take time off work when you’re feeling sick. This will help you rest and recover more quickly, and you’ll also be less likely to spread your illness to others.
22. Use a Cough Drop
Cough drops can help to soothe sore throats and reduce coughing. Choose a natural brand that contains honey or lemon.
23. Try a Herbal Supplement
Herbal supplements such as echinacea or goldenseal can help to boost your immune system and reduce the length of time you’re sick. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
24. Get Plenty of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for a healthy immune system, so be sure to get plenty of it when you’re feeling under the weather. You can get Vitamin D from sunlight, fortified foods, or supplements.
25. Use a Sinus Rinse
A sinus rinse can help to flush out any mucus or toxins that are causing your sinuses to become inflamed. Use as recommended for best results.
26. Drink Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is soothing and can help to ease congestion and provide relaxation. Try teas that have peppermint, ginger, or chamomile.
27. Don’t Skip Meals
It’s important to eat regularly when you’re feeling under the weather. Skipping meals can make you feel more tired and slow down your recovery. Eat smaller and more frequent meals if possible.
28. Use a Vaporizer
A vaporizer can help to keep the air moist, which can help to ease congestion and soothe dry throats. Add essential oils to get more benefits, like eucalyptus.
29. Try a Hot Toddy
A hot toddy is a traditional remedy that can help to soothe sore throats and calm coughs. Mix 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 shot of whiskey or bourbon in hot water and drink it.
Try non-alcoholic version for the same benefits.
30. Make Time for Relaxation
Taking time to relax can help to reduce stress and boost your immune system. Try meditating, taking a bath, or reading a book.
31. Get Some Fresh Air
Getting outside and breathing fresh air can help to improve your mood and boost your immune system. Try to get outside and take a walk on a sunny day, or just sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.
