Gentle Self-Care When You Catch a Winter Cold

I was supposed to have a post up on Monday, but instead I ended up with one of those head colds that absolutely takes you out. So today’s post is coming straight from bed, surrounded by TP and lemon ginger tea. Instead of forcing creativity out of myself, I figured I’d share what my sick-day self-care actually looks like right now.

Table of Contents

Gentle Self-Care When You Catch a Winter Cold

I’ve partnered with ShopMy (affiliate partner!) on this post today, and you can find my entire Gentle Self-Care Collection here!

Warm Drinks on Repeat

Lemon & Ginger tea – add honey to help soothe sore and dry throats
Hot Cinnamon Spice tea – the absolute best for clearing out sinuses
Peppermint tea – amazing for headaches + congestion
Lights Out tea – fave sleepy time tea

OMG I just sneezed 4 times in a row and could pass out – geesh!

Anyway, I’ve basically been rotating between tea and broth in the coolest gadget mug Future Mr. Trip Side bought at Costco (also available at the bad place). It keeps your coffee, tea, broth, even baby formula hot until the battery runs out. So far it’s lasted up to five hours, and it’s honestly impressive. I woke up from a two-hour nap and my tea was STILL hot. It’s incredible. I can’t recommend it enough. I just wish it came in pink. 💕

_{Update from Future Mr. Trip Side: Please note, my photo above has the temperature at 128°, but he would like you to know that the mug gets to 150° for optimal drinking temperature. I love that he’s a nerd, just like me.}

Comfort Entertainment

I’ve been stationed between the bed and the couch yesterday and today. It’s been rough with a migraine. I was barely able to look at a screen yesterday, so today feels wildly more successful.

Here’s what I’ve been trying to watch, listen to, and write:

Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials on Netflix – I love everything by Agatha, and this three-episode series did not disappoint.
The Zodiac – Completely forgot this had an all-star cast. Made it halfway through and passed out. Still can’t believe this case was never solved.
Bow Scalloped Notecard Set – I have a love for all Papier products (it’s where I get my journals). These are darling and perfect for cute little Galentine’s Day notes for your girlfriends.

Rest (even when you feel guilty about it)

This is hard for many of us. My mind is constantly going, creating, and being active. It’s not very good at being grounded and calm, especially when sick days can’t be planned.

I try to practice breathwork and meditation, but it never really works for me, so I listen to ASMR channels on YouTube like Whispering Willow, Latte, and Goodnight Moon instead.

Easy Sick Day comforts

Bootie Slippers – future Mr. Trip Side calls these my moon shoes because they look like I’m about to walk on the moon, but I LOVE over-the-ankle slippers with everything in me. He’s since bought me three new pairs knowing how much I love them. These are all I wore yesterday.
Zella joggers – this should come as no surprise. I love Zella and I love joggers. I own two pairs and basically live in them, even when I’m not sick. They’re also great to fly in.
An old, well loved sweat shirt – or one that looks like it. This strawberry patch sweatshirt is straight outta the 90s and I love that. I want everything to be this level of cozy.

Simple Foods

Oh gosh, I’m asking for nothing but warm, nourishing foods right now. Here’s what I’ve been craving:

Soup/Stew – future Mr. Trip Side made a killer salsa chicken stew last night. Please don’t ask more questions. I have no idea the recipe, but it was amazing and so spicy it cleared my sinuses’ sinuses.
Porridge or oatmeal with honey
Room temperature fruit (I want nothing cold)
Veggie scrambles
Whole grain toast with full fat butter

Wow, this took me so long to write. That’s how sick I am!

Wishing none of you this dreaded winter cold, and hoping you’re all staying healthy and happy.

And if you’re dealing with a winter cold right now, I’m sending you a big virtual hug. Feel free to share your favorite sick-day comforts below. Let’s help each other get through it.