While you’re sick
Give yourself a break. Your fitness and diet won’t look the same when you’re sick, and that’s the way it is OK – In fact, the best thing you can do for your health is to give yourself the time and space you need to feel better!
Hydrate! When you stick to your water goals, you will feel better physically and be more successful even when other goals seem unattainable.
Choose new goals. You may want to start by making a list of the things you are grateful for or meditating for five minutes every morning. If you’re up for it, replacing your workout with something else that makes you feel grounded while you’re under the weather can be a good option.
Slow it down. Illness is often our body’s way of telling us it needs a break. Therefore, respecting this by eating more slowly, putting aside your to-do list, or focusing on one thing at a time (yes, that) can be helpful in healing. One thing can be to relax on the couch while watching a show or take a nap.
If someone in your home is sick
Come up with a backup plan. If you know that you won’t be able to get in your usual morning workout all week while your child gets home from school, or that your evening spin class won’t be able to happen when your partner does the pickup If you can’t take over from school, make sure you have a backup plan: a shorter workout, a different block of time, or even just a walk home from school could be the exercise plan B you need.
Stay flexible. Even with a plan A…and B…and C…it’s impossible to plan for every eventuality when it comes to the health of others. Remind yourself that it’s okay to remain flexible and move through this season with grace for yourself and the people in your life.
To be present. How would it feel to change your mindset? Phew, we’re dealing with this again and it’s totally confusing me To This is an opportunity to spend more time together. Maybe the situation is the same, but if your mindset is focused on family downtime – even when the kids cough into your mouth – it can be a big change!
Know that this is temporary and will pass. Even though this time of year feels overwhelming, know that you are not alone!