Conveniently enough, I caught the flu while traveling back to the states. What more opportune time than when I have to pack up my life to head across the country, right? But instead of focusing on how being sick is throwing a wrench in my plans, I thought I’d go ahead and share some of my tips.

Here’s How to Survive a Sick Day:

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Soak in a Long, Hot Bath 

One of my favorite things to do to kick those flu aches is to take a hot bath. I’m a huge fan of Lush Bath Bombs and the best one I’ve found to use when I’m sick is the Intergalactic Bomb.

The odor of refreshing peppermint will help clear the congestion and sinus problems associated with an illness. The only negative to this bomb is it will leave some colored residue on the tub but there’s no harm in leaving it to clean for a day when you’re feeling better.

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Drink a Hot Tea/Hot Totty

Even though I’m more of a coffee drinker myself, nothing soothes a sore throat better than some hot tea with a dab of honey. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous on a sick day, try the hot tea and honey along with a half shot of whiskey. You will be amazed by how well your sinuses clear and how that small amount of alcohol will make you feel as if you’re on the road to recovery.

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Splurge on More Expensive Tissues

I budget on absolutely everything but tissues are something I won’t allow myself to skimp on. Blowing your nose a million times a day will aggravate your skin if you aren’t using the right tissues. I opt for the Puffs + Lotion. These tissues are so soft and are the only brand I’ve found that doesn’t give me the red irritation around my nose. If you’re willing to spend a little more, the best tissues are the Puffs + Lotion with Vicks. The smell of the Vicks will open up your nostrils and help you breathe a million times better.

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Vicks Vapor Rub is your Best Friend

One thing that I swear by is Vicks Vapor Rub. Made from essential oils like Eucalyptus, Camphor and Menthol, Vicks is a life saver when I’m sick. If you have a cough/chest cold, rub it on your chest and you will begin to notice the phlegm breaking apart. I also dab a little underneath my nose to help the irritation from tissues but also because breathing in the minty smell will open up the sinuses.

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Stay Off Technology

I’m breaking this rule today by writing this blog and I feel like I’m already paying for it. With a sinus cold always comes the congestion headache. By staring at the phone, computer, or television, the headache will only worsen. When I’m sick, I try and stay away from the light and screens. Some of the substitutions I make for technology are reading a book, manicuring my nails, listening to music, and brainstorming blog ideas by writing down main topics on note cards.

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Stay Home from Work

Being sick gives you a legitimate excuse to skip out on your responsibilities for the day. Some people still feel the need to suffer through work while they’re sick but there’s a couple of things wrong with that…

#1: You’re bringing your illness into an environment where it can be spread to other people.

#2: By not resting, your sickness can worsen and eventually transform into more serious illnesses. I had a friend who was putting off a sinus cold for a while. Eventually it turned into strep throat and then she was hospitalized for pneumonia! Perfect example why we need to take care of ourselves.

I understand that not everyone can take the day off when they’re sick but at least try and take it easy to protect your health!

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