What to Do If You Feel a Cold Coming On

POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

If you're bracing yourself for the inevitable cold that you know will pass through your family and your co-workers and closest group of friends, know that there are steps you can take to actively defend yourself and your immune system. Try these eight simple tips to protect your body and stay healthy this Winter!

01
De-Stress
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

De-Stress

When you're stressed, your immune system is shot and you're a prime candidate for bacteria and sickness. Fortunately, there are so many natural ways to reduce stress and relieve anxiety to keep your immune system strong and stable. Try drinking tea, taking a hot bath, meditating, or diffusing oils.

02
Wash Your Hands
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Wash Your Hands

This seems like a no-brainer, but it's so important! Even more so during cold and flu season. Wash your hands, and wash often, especially after being in public spaces like on the subway or in a grocery store.

03
Sleep
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

Sleep

Another way to deplete your body's defenses and weaken your immune system? Skip on the zzz's. Not only is sleep important for preventing a cold, but it's crucial in your recovery should you end up getting sick. Get at least eight hours whenever possible.

04
Exercise
POPSUGAR Photography | Kathryna Hancock

Exercise

Don't let the cold weather get in the way of your gains! A boosted immune system is just one of the many benefits of exercise. However, if you're starting to feel any symptoms below the neck like body aches or a chesty cough, it's been to skip the workout.

05
Eat Immunity-Boosting Foods
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Eat Immunity-Boosting Foods

Warm yourself up with some green tea or bite into juicy citrus — your body will need immunity-boosting foods to help fight off viruses in the cold months. We like adding ginger and lemon to our tea for an extra cold-fighting punch.

06
If It's Already Hit, Rest
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

If It's Already Hit, Rest

Feel an unusual twinge in the back of your throat? Nose stuffing up a bit? Don't push yourself. You have a better chance at recovering if you rest, and you definitely don't want to worsen your symptoms.

07
Clean Often
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Clean Often

Same as with washing your hands, you'll want to keep your home and office disinfected as much as possible. If you have holiday guests coming in from out of town, this is especially important! Shared space = shared germs. Keep tidy and keep any bugs out of your immune system.

08
Avoid Sick Friends
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

Avoid Sick Friends

If your friend is coming down with something, you can bring them soup, but it's probably best to not cuddle up and binge-watch Netflix together. And your SO with the flu? Maybe save the kissing for when they've turned a corner and are germ-free.