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Take Time to Rest and Recover
When you are feeling under the weather, it's important to give yourself time to rest and recuperate. Resting, even if it only involves lying in bed and watching a movie, allows your body to relax and conserve energy – energy that can then be used to fight off the virus or infection. Additionally, staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet can help your body to deal with illness more effectively.
Test out Natural Remedies
Whether you bring out the ginger tea or a steam inhalation, natural remedies can be incredibly helpful to alleviate symptoms and make you feel better when you're sick. In particular, herbal remedies such as honey and lemon or ginger may provide relief from cold and flu symptoms. You could even try out a sumptuous hot soup or a cooling smoothie full of fruits and vitamins – whatever helps you to feel your best.
Try out Comfort Measures
If you are confined in bed due to your illness, comfort measures can help improve your day and lift your spirits. For example, playing some soft music, lighting a candle, reading a great book or magazine, or writing your thoughts in a diary can all help you feel better. Additionally, connecting with friends and family can be a great way to get your mind off your cold or flu and focus on something else for a while.
Watch Your Mindset
It is important to be gentle with yourself and accept the fact that it takes time to recover from illness. Reframing your experience with a positive mindset – such as considering the rest and relaxation a well-deserved break from work – can help to make the experience more manageable. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can also help to improve your mood and alleviate stress and anxiety.
When to See a Doctor
If your symptoms don't show signs of improvement after a couple of days, it is always a good idea to make an appointment and get checked out by your doctor. This is especially true if you have any concerns about your health, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or a high fever. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor might recommend over-the-counter medicines or prescribe antibiotics or antivirals.