Self-care when you’re feeling under the weather

Winter can be a lovely time of year, with lots to look forward to and enjoy; Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas and New Year can get us feeling in the festive spirit.

But, when the colder weather starts rolling around, so do those inevitable cold and flu symptoms. So, it’s this time of year that taking care of ourselves can become vital in helping us feel not only physically healthy, but mentally healthy too.

And, the thing to remember is, self-care doesn’t need to take a lot of time. We think it’s better to take care of yourself in small ways, little and often throughout the day.

To help you feel right as rain again, try our five easy self-care activities.

1. Rest up

We often start feeling run-down when we’re busy and stressed. So, listen to your body and try to slow down as much as you can.

Try to get as much sleep as you are able to. Your body might be fighting off illness, so cut it a little slack. But, instead of sleeping-in in the mornings, try getting an early night instead. This means you can wake up feeling refreshed, and won’t have to rush your morning routine.

2. Plan to start and end the day with time for you

Before you leave the house, be sure to make your bed and tidy up your bedroom a little. This is your sanctuary. Make it a comforting place to return to, should you come home feeling under the weather.

Then, before you head to bed in the evening, try to reach a calm and relaxed state. Try to limit your time spent in front of the TV or computer screen, instead try listening to your favourite music, or maybe an audiobook or podcast. Or, try settling into a new book – it can help you look forward to winding down at the end of the day.

3. Nourish yourself

It’s often the last thing you’re thinking about when you’re feeling under the weather, but eating well can really help. Making sure you stay hydrated is also really important.

Give yourself time in the morning to eat breakfast. Perhaps a warming bowl of porridge, or maybe a fruit smoothie to help soothe a sore throat.

But it’s not all about being perfectly healthy. If you feel like having your favourite chocolate bar, or sweet treat, then do. It can boost your spirits!

4. Ask for help when you need it

Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean taking care of yourself, all by yourself. It’s knowing when and who to ask for help, too.

It might be going to see your GP or pharmacist for a remedy to help ease your symptoms. It might be speaking to your line manager and explaining how rotten you feel. It might be chatting to a friend, to ask them to cheer you up. There are lots of people you can reach out to that have your best interests in mind, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. 

5. Remember that everything will get better

As with most negative things in life, feeling this way is temporary. You will pick yourself up again – and, even through your sniffles, you know that life’s not all bad.

Even when we’re feeling under the weather, there’s still lots we can be grateful for. So remind yourself of the things and people that make you happy – and make them a priority when you’re feeling better.

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Written by Becky Banham
Becky is Brand and Social Strategist for Happiful and a writer for Counselling Directory.
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Written by Becky Banham
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