This is a sponsored post by Theraflu but the content and the opinions expressed are my own. No one, I repeat, no one wants to get the flu. Or a cold for that matter. Being sick is awful, which is why I’ve decided that I’m just not going to get sick this year. Okay, okay. I know that I can’t “decide” to avoid getting sick. I just want to know how to beat the flu.
How to Beat the Flu
I will be doing sick differently this year. For one, I’m prepared ahead of time, thanks to a nifty new find at Walmart over the weekend.
Theraflu now makes PowerPods, which are compatible with most single-serve coffee pod machines (mine included). Y’all. They are so super easy to use.
This means that I can make a quick up of relief faster. Press. Sip. Relief.
Really.
Having the PowerPods on hand also means that I have access to both the daytime and nighttime Theraflu formulas handy for when I get sick.
Or hubby gets the man flu – whichever comes first.
Now, stocking up on Theraflu PowerPods isn’t the only way that I’m avoiding the flu this year. There are a lot of ways we can prevent the dreaded sickness.
Step 1 on How to Beat the Flu: Get Your Flu Shot
We all got flu shots this year. We live in the tundra (okay, okay, it’s Michigan), but with the severity of flu symptoms, it’s just prudent.
Sure, getting the annual flu shot won’t keep everything at bay, but it helps to keep the worst of previous flu seasons far away from me and my family.
Elderberry Syrup
Now, we love elderberry syrup year round, but during flu season, we drink it by the spoonful to help bolster our immune systems (plus it tastes good).
The past few years, we’ve made our own elderberry syrup, and the whole family likes to help.
Prevention is all fine and good until someone gets sick, though.
If the flu strikes, don’t stress. You can do a lot to help contain the germs and keep other members of your family healthy.
Wash Blankets and Bedding
Be sure to wash all bedding and soft surfaces (the ones you can throw in the washer, at least) on hot and tumble dry to eliminate germs (and anything else).
I choose to wash all the sheets, blankets, and comforters even if not everyone caught a bug. You never know where those pesky germs may be lingering.
Disinfect Your Toothbrushes
Did you know that you can run your toothbrush through the dishwasher to disinfect it? If you have an electric toothbrush, make sure you only run the toothbrush head through the dishwasher.
And don’t do it in a fog because you’ll accidentally wash the entire housing and have to buy a brand new electric toothbrush.
Use Shower Steamers
There are some great options out there for DIY shower steamers, which are basically small disks that dissolve in your shower (you put them on the floor) and release essential oils, like peppermint, to help open your sinuses and let your nose drain.
Invest in Tissues
When you feel like dirt, the last thing you need is a sore, runny, raw nose. Invest in tissues that have lotion in them and are 2-ply or thicker to help catch the gross and keep it off your hands.
Soak in Epsom Salts
The absolute worst part of being sick for me are the aches and pains. Now, I’m not a huge fan of baths, but when I’m sick, there’s nothing I want more than for everything to stop hurting. One of my favorite things is to draw a hot bath with lavender-infused Epsom salts to help relax my sore muscles.
Know When to Tap Out
If your body is fighting the flu, now is not the time to start a new project or decide to do some winterizing. Stick to your bed or the couch and binge-watch your favorite show (I highly recommend Pushing Daisies, Golden Girls, or Gilmore Girls) for the 10th time.
How to Beat the Flu: Press. Sip. Relief.
Don’t discount the wonderful relief you can get from a simple Theraflu PowerPod. Just make sure that you pay attention to whether you’re making a daytime or nighttime cup of wonderful, warm relief.
It’s all about using the tools you have to make this flu season as short as possible-that includes prevention and management of your flu symptoms.
If all else fails, you can do what I do and call your mom who will probably order you to bed. Sometimes we just need someone to give us permission, right mama?
