As I sit here writing this article (end of August), I am currently recovering from being sick for over a month now! I have been battling a chronic case of laryngitis (worst possible thing for a Pilates Instructor that uses their vocal cords on the daily), a sinus and ear infection, amongst some other health issues I’ll spare you the details on. The reason I lead with this information, is because this issue is all about immune health; and while that is something that seems so far away from me personally at this moment in time, it also seems to be the perfect opportunity for me to share what I do when I’m under the weather.

I am not a doctor, a nutritionist or an expert on immune systems. However, I can confidently say I am a health and wellness enthusiast and find these little routines help me feel more at ease be it a cold, flu, or just down and depressed. Routines help me stay consistent and reset my mental state and I think there are a good majority of you out there that could say the same.

Every morning as soon as my feet hit the floor, I drink the glass of water I’ve left by my bed. We wake up every morning dehydrated from our night’s sleep. Think of how many hours it been since you had a sip of water – you add in sickness, extra vitamins or medications you might be taking, I find it amplifies the need to hydrate.

Then it’s onto warm lemon water with honey (I add honey when I’m sick as it soothes my throat) followed by a cup of green tea or matcha. I am a caffeine person and need my dose every morning – that goes for when I’m sick as well. I usually avoid coffee when sick as it over stimulates my system, but the caffeine headache is a real thing and I find even if I don’t finish that cup of tea, it just is a ritual I need in my life.

I tend to load up on supplements while under the weather. I love SuperPower and Magnesi-Om by Moon Juice, Wellness Formula by Source Naturals and Propolis Throat Spray by BeeKeeper’s Naturals.

I also double down on consuming whole berries high in antioxidants and likely go overboard in making cold pressed juices loaded with celery (cleanses and detoxifies), cucumber (hydrates), parsley (antiviral properties), ginger (heats and metabolizes the system) and lemon (superstar – reduces inflammation, antioxidant, vitamin C and alkalizes the body).

I tend to eat mostly soups with lots of broth, eggs and also bread which may seem surprising. These foods are comfort to me. They give me just the right amount of energy, are nutritious, always sound appetizing, and I can digest them without any trouble.

I also up my self-care routine. I don’t know if it because I have more time when I’m not working, but it also just makes me feel better. I take showers (hot followed by cold rinse), up my skincare routine, use ice rollers all over and dry brushing. I am sure to take time to meditate, daydream and journal. Be outside in direct sun for at least 10 mins to soak up that vitamin D. As well as some version of movement be it 5 minutes of Pilates, stretching, foam rolling or a light walk, I always move my body.