Sick Season

With cases of the Flu and other illnesses on the rise, below are a few reminders to keep in your back pocket if you find yourself homebound this season:

1.) Fluids - and lots of them. This is a no-brainer, but deserves to be reinforced. Some of my go to’s are:

• Water with added electrolytes (pre-bottled, Liquid IV, Cure, etc.)
• Pedialyte 
• Tea  - specifically lemon or ginger with honey
• Coconut water 
• Juice (with no added sugar) - I highly recommend the orange carrot turmeric juice from Wegmans
• Light broths and soups

2.) Rest…actual rest! Give yourself permission to take a break for a little while and let your body recover. Sleep, watch a show or movie that brings you comfort, read, call a friend, and be okay with doing nothing.

3.) OTC meds. Consult with your doctor to determine which option is best for you and your specific situation. 

4.) Showers and lukewarm baths. You can even add some Epsom Salt to ease tension and/or Vapor Tablets to clear your sinuses. 

5.) Get some fresh air. This one we tend to skip out on while we are cooped up at home, but try to step outside if you feel up to it, and/or open the windows to air out your space. 

6.) Light stretching and movement. Lots of lying around is necessary, but it can also cause some stiffness to sneak up. In between periods of rest, add some gentle stretching or perhaps walk around a bit to loosen up your muscles and get the blood flowing again. As always, listen to your body and assess energy levels to see what feels best for where you are at!

7.) Lean on your support system. This can sometimes be challenging for those of us who do not like to ask for help, but remind yourself that this is what others are here for. Drop the guilt, and let your loved ones take care of you!

Stay healthy!

Stephanie Spoto, CSCS, PAS