We all have a lot on our plates this time of year. And we’re not just talking turkey and cranberry sauce. This festive season can be hectic, and it’s all the more challenging when you’re feeling under the weather.
So what do you do when you’ve got the sniffles or a headache and crawling back into bed really isn’t an option? Here are three handy suggestions for coping with colds during the holidays:

1. Drink up. It’s important to stay hydrated when you aren’t feeling well (or any time). But that doesn’t mean you should make a beeline for the spiked eggnog, as excess alcohol will dehydrate you, which can in turn worsen cold symptoms such as congestion. Stick to water, juice, or soothing teas and broths.
2.  Rest up. With so many things to check off your holiday to-do list, hiding under the covers until you feel better might not be possible. But that’s no excuse to run yourself ragged. Learn to pick your battles. To delegate. Try to get to bed at a reasonable time, and take advantage of little moments to relax and replenish whenever you can. You’ve seen It’s a Wonderful Life a million times; it’s okay to nod off while you’re watching it this year.
3. Stock up. Don’t wait until you’re an exhausted, infectious mess to drag yourself out for supplies. Be prepared. Have tissues, soup, vitamin C, a functioning humidifier, painkillers and a few of your favourite comfort foods on standby just in case you need them. If you choose to get the flu shot, do it now. Keep a bottle of Cold & Flu Rescue with Ester-C® at the ready to help relieve symptoms if/when they arrive.

Nobody wants to be sick during the holiday season, but if you do get the gift of a holiday cold, it doesn’t have to ruin the festivities. Be prepared, be kind to your body, and give yourself a break (and maybe an extra piece of fudge).