Ill and Tired

December is upon us. Today is the 1st, and today is also the day I have woken up feeling absolutely awful. I know it's the season of sickness but I really am not enjoying not being able to breathe through my nose, a throat full of razor blades and feeling like I am going to throw up every time I swallow. None of these combine to form a great night's sleep either, so I am feeling a little worse for wear today. Being someone who seems to have the same misfortune in falling ill every single year, I have a few ways in which to make myself feel slightly better.

For a sore throat:

• Honey. I don't know the science behind it, but honey is an amazing natural soother for a sore throat. Even just swallowing spoonfuls will ease the pain.
• Soothers. I find the effects of these don't last long but they are handy to have for a quick fix during the day.
• Avoid foods that will scratch your throat such as crisps, these will just make it more inflamed.
• I am addicted to orange juice, but citrus is a huge no for a sore throat, it will just irritate it more.

For a blocked nose:

• Sudafed! This medicine will make you breathe again. I cannot praise it enough.
• Steam. Have a hot shower or bath, and this will instantly ease your sinus and nasal passages (as well as instantly making you feel better too).
• Nasal spray/vicks. These sprays and vapours may smell slightly disgusting but they clear your nose so well.

For tiredness:

• Being ill makes sleeping even harder than usual. Make sure you take appropriate amounts of medicine before bed to ensure you aren't kept awake.
• Sleep slightly propped upright by pillows if you still can't breathe properly.
• Keep water by your bed. It is so important to stay hydrated, especially when ill.
• Drink a herbal tea to help you sleep: I swear by the Twinings chamomile and spiced apple.

Yes I have hole punched my Sudafed box. I'm not entirely sure why.

I am no doctor, and these tips may not help you at all. But if you feel as ill and disgusting as I do this December, I hope it made you realise you're not alone! And remember, this is an unfortunate period but it will pass. And if you're not ill, I really hope you are appreciating the ability to breathe freely right now.