Well we all know how miserable it can be rushing off to work in the morning, or cramming for an exam, and struggling to breath through a stuffed nose and aching lungs. Not only is it cold and flu season, but also a more stressful time of year as exams approach at school, and winter driving makes getting to work more strenuous. So here are some helpful hints to fight off colds, and reduce your stress:
1) WASH YOUR HANDS!! And this doesn't mean running them under water for three seconds. Use soap and scrub, over your palms and between your fingers. The two most important times to wash your hands are after you use the washroom, and before you eat. You'll eliminate two bouts of the flu right there.
2)Diet - your diet plays an important role in both your ability to fight off sickness, and your stress reduction. Drink a cup of Echincea tea, heavily steeped, every day to boost your immunce system. Include a good variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet - oranges, tomatoes, kiwi and apples are good sources of vitamin C, and their natural sugars will keep you from craving chocolate during your stressed moments.
3) Hot Toddys. They deserve a point of their own. Hot lemonade (or tea) with a spoonful of rum and a spoonful of honey before bed will stop your coughing and let you sleep. But remember, even these should be drunk responsibly! ;)
4)Sleep and Excercise - get enough of both!!! If you are trapped inside by a snowstorm, run up and down the stairs - if you find that too embarassing, then do some excercises in your room. This is will hugely reduce your stress, help you concentrate better, and help you sleep more soundly. Sleep is the kicker - you need it. Get it.
5) The Wind-down - if you need to wind down before you sleep, by all means do it, but don't let it be with activities that will keep you from falling asleep when you are able. Watching movies at 11:30pm before bed probably isn't such a great idea, since it won't end 'til morning (I've learnt that by experience). Instead, try turning off all the lights, lying under the covers, and playing music. This will wind you down, and won't keep you up when you start getting drowsy.
And last but not least: Attitude. Keep it up. A positive attitude is truly the cure for most ills. Stay happy, even when you feel like you're losing focus. Spend time with your family and friends, think as positivly as possible, play a little and pray a lot, smile at strangers, and if all else fails - curl up in front of the tv with a funny movie.
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