The winter months bring a variety of things. Some of those are the flu, germs, COVID-19, sinus infections, colds, RSV, and other illnesses that we would rather not deal with if we can help it.
We are pretty well versed in how to help prevent illnesses such as washing your hands, staying home when you’re not feeling well, drinking plenty of liquids, and scheduling an appointment to see your doctor if symptoms persist. But what about your emotional and mental health? Those are important too and are affected when you’re ill. When we don’t feel well, it impacts our mood and keeps us from enjoying time with friends and family or participating in hobbies and work.
There are several things you can do to help your mood while you are resting and recovering from an illness. Sometimes we need to slow down and adapt our day-to-day routine. Gentle movements such as stretching or yoga can help circulate blood through your system. Laying on your back with your legs up against the wall helps to move fluid throughout your body as well.
If you’re not too stuffy, deep breathing is a great breathing technique to improve mental health by circulating oxygen throughout your system and helping to calm your nervous system. Deep breathing is slower, deeper breaths that are repeated several times.
Journaling is a great way to write down what you’re grateful for and is a way to express your thoughts and emotions when you may not have access to a therapist or support person due to staying home with an illness.
Music can stimulate your nervous system and brain in a beneficial way and can help improve your mood. Music has the power to influence us to dance, cry, run that extra mile, or soothe us. When we aren’t feeling our best, calming music can help us to feel better.
Hygiene is still important, even when you’re sick. Take a shower or bath; the warm water helps to soothe aching muscles and helps us to calm ourselves and feel better. Adding Epsom salts can help ease those aches and pains and a bubble bath is always a nice self-care touch.
Mindfulness is important in everything we do. Staying mindful and in the present moment helps to pass the time and ensure that worries and stress stay at a minimum. We tend to feel like we are missing out on work or fun when we are sick. If we focus on that, it’s difficult to stay in the moment with the understanding that your body needs to rest as it is doing its job fighting the bacteria or virus.
Getting sick is a normal human experience that we tolerate year in and year out. Adding the above-listed items can help you manage your emotional and mental health while you’re stuck at home recovering. Always talk to your doctor about medication changes or over-the-counter medications during a time of illness to ensure you’re taking the appropriate dosage and medication that will help you the best.