Remember the days when you would stay home, wrap up in a warm blanket, sleep the sickness away, and maybe even catch up on you’re favorite show? I used to LOVE watching old episodes of One Tree Hill. Being sick, was sort of glorious. Fast forward a few years, and being sick is not an option. Or maybe I should say, a sick day is not an option. Whether you’re a mom of babes, teenagers, or somewhere in-between, those darling, bosses of yours are never going to approve when you call in for a sick day.
We have been doing pretty-okay at avoiding too many of the sicknesses going around this year. Especially considering Benjamin is in his first year of preschool, hello ALL the germs. But last week, Benjamin got a pretty nasty head cold. I’m usually pretty immune to his germs. #momlife But this time, my over confidence got me and kicked me down real quick. So, I’m gonna share all the things that helped me be as present as possible while this nasty cold has made my throat feel like fire with a throbbing headache.
First up, hot tea with honey, cinnamon, & apple cider vinegar. I know what you’re thinking. who wants to drink vinegar when you feel sick? This little mixture is a miracle worker for kicking a cold or soothing a sore throat. Just make your favorite tea, add 1 tablespoon of ACV and honey/cinnamon to taste. Here are some of my favorite’s: Tea, Vinegar, Cinnamon, A Feel Good Mug.
Next, a good humidifier with an essential oil diffuser. You can easily google essential oil blends with your symptoms. I love peppermint for a stomach bug, and eucalyptus with orange for a cold. If you’re looking for a good humidifier with the essential oil tray, this is the one I use and love: Humidifier
Third, be comfy! Even if you typically don’t buy into the whole “leggings are pants” debate, when you’re sick there is NO debate… leggings are PANTS! Put on a good pair of leggings and a comfy top. If you can stay in, make it a pajama day at home. I’m sure you won’t hear any complaints. There are my all time favorite leggings, but I also love these budget friendly ones too! Pair it with an uplifting sweatshirt, and you’re bound to feel better soon….or at least that is what I tell myself! I love this sweatshirt, and actually everything this brand. They donate $1 from EVERY purchase to Mental Health America, which is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting overall mental health. I love the cause and think this is SO important and raising aware for those who struggle! I was able to get a 10% discount for my readers so feel free to shop and use ColdCoffeeGrind at checkout!
Next up, I may sound like an 80 year old on this one but get yourself a heating pad. Whether you’re having tummy issues or body aches from a cold, a heating pad can be your best friend. If you’re not about the electric ones, try a microwave heating pad.
I have ranted about this product for your kids before, but it totally works for YOU too. WinkⓇ Immune, an elderberry blend, does wonders for preventing a cold or stop symptoms as soon as they start. I also love their Chest Rub. I use it for sinuses and headaches before bed. I will also try a natural remedies before having to reach for Excedrin. You can shop here and get a 15% discount with the code JessicaS15 at checkout!
And because I don’t want to park my toddler in front of a tv until I am feeling like playing chase, I pull out some of his favorite puzzles, books, and this ABC Case that he is obsessed with right now. Don’t get me wrong, we will also put some TV in there too. He is currently obsessed Peppa Pig and LeapFrog’s Word Factory.
Lastly, I know not everyone has a support system close by, but if you do.. ask for HELP. Asking for help is one of the hardest things for me, so I get it. But when you’re really sick, sometimes what you need is a solid sleep or a few hours of rest. What’s that saying about not being able to pour from an empty cup? Unfortunately, there isn’t a discount code or an Amazon link to fill your cup, but there are plenty of ways to take a moment for yourself when you need it. Even if that means a little extra quiet time than normal or watching an extra episode of Peppa.
I would love to hear how you get through a cold or sick day with kids. Have any favorite products? Natural remedies? Please share in the comments!
As always, thanks for reading and following along!
xoxo,
Brittany
P.S. Check out my Winter Survival Guide for toddlers here!
Asking for help is good advice. I’ve gotten better at it as I’ve grown older. When I was a young mother, Danielle was 3, and the flu hit us like a tornado so badly that it broke me and I finally called my mom. Then I drove an hour to get to her house. She tucked me in bed and nursed me Danielle and I back to health. I’ve never forgotten. I really needed my mother. I don’t know why it was so hard to make that call.