Take care of yourself

Many have expressed concerns about health issues right now, and I want that topic to be the focus of this week’s message. Certainly, the coronavirus is ever present in the news and our thoughts, and I completely understand this worry. However, in reality, most of my clients, myself included, are far away from the virus’ epicenter. So, while we wait for governments, world health organisations and the powers that be to get this critical situation under control, I want to reiterate some good old-fashioned practices for staying healthy and minimizing your risk to the common cold and this year’s flu viruses, which are the more likely threat to us at this time.

We may do our best to avoid contact with these germs, but there will inevitably be times when we begin to feel that familiar tickle in our throat, the dull headache and stuffy nose that herald the onset of a mild or more serious virus. My best advice for tackling a cold or nasty flu is to take good care of yourself as soon as you feel that you may be coming down with something.

The first thing is to get lots and lots of rest. In fact, this is the most important practice for your body whenever you are ill or feeling down. The body needs rest to fight off invading viruses and repair itself. When you are under the weather, or just downright sick, strive to get a minimum of 9 to 10 hours of rest daily.

The next important tip is staying hydrated. Fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or even warm vegetable or chicken broth, help your body fight infection, aid recovery and clear away toxins. Sipping warm or room temperature liquids is the key to keeping your hydration levels up. Naturally, sugary drinks are not welcome here!

Eating well is also important, and it is one of the most ignored aspects of self-care once people get sick. Light meals with vegetables and healthy proteins are good for strengthening the body and chicken soup is an option that many swear by. When you add a diet of healthy whole foods to your added rest and increased fluids, you will be taking the optimal steps to get your body back on its feet.

Other helpful tips for staying healthy, out in public or even in the home or work place, include avoiding contact with those who are sick (when possible), covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and regularly washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitise. In addition, if you find yourself being a caregiver for a sick one, wearing a mask and continually wiping down surfaces will help prevent exposure to unwanted germs.

Basically, play it safe, smart and practical in these times, and try to keep anxiety and worry at bay. In the meantime, by getting sufficient rest, eating healthy, and not exposing yourself unnecessarily to those who are under the weather are big steps to keep you and your loved ones healthy and hearty in these colder months when we are more vulnerable to illness.