Our bodies need rest. We need down time to recharge physically and mentally. But I have to confess, I am kinda bad at this! I’m really good at creating restful spaces… but not always good at utilizing them. Ha! So inevitably what happens is that my body shuts down, gets sick, and forces me to rest!

I want share some Sick Day Tips to help us embrace this forced rest - but also help prevent them from happening in the first place by reminding us to live a rest filled life!

Drink lots of fluids
Water, yes! Herbal Tea, yes! Also remember to replenish your electrolytes (try coconut water) and stay away from sugar, alcohol and caffeine which can be dehydrating and lower your immune system.
Grab a roll of toilet paper
Sounds silly but I love having a roll of toilet paper (instead of a box of tissues) next to my bed. It’s more economic and also you can stuff the icky tissue into the toilet paper tube - so handy!
Keep cough drops nearby
Always buy the sugar-free cough drops - we don’t need any extra sugar in our bodies when our immune system is working so hard!
Use chapstick on your nose
Ever had that chapped, red nose from all the sniffling and blowing?? Try using a chapstick like Carmex on your nose after almost every tissue wipe… it’s amazing! Plus the menthol helps clear the nasal passages. Win, win!
Order Pho
In our home we forgo the classic chicken noodle soup and order pho instead! The fresh herbs and spices in pho help heal the body! Plus you get to support a local business!
Take Vitamin C
‘Nuff said.
Understand that resting is not lazy
Rest is an intentional pause to allow the body to be replenished so that it can continue to function and perform. Rest is a verb. It’s not laziness! In fact, I would argue that it takes a lot of effort to rest well.