How "mini-escapes" can help when you have a cold
Relieving stress can help you fight off your cold. But how can you fit stress relief into your busy day? Mini-escapes may be the answer.
What's a mini-escape?
A mini-escape is a short break from your everyday obligations. It gives you a chance to relax, refresh, and recharge. It could be as simple as taking a brief walk at lunch, or spending 10 minutes when you first get home to sit quietly by yourself and listen to music.
How can mini-escapes help me feel better when I have a cold?
Taking time for yourself by using mini-escapes can help relieve stress. This gives you a double benefit:
- Relieving stress can help you fight off the cold.
- Relieving stress helps you feel better in general, so it is easier to cope with the challenges of getting through a busy day with a cold.
Stress also increases your risk of catching another cold later. So using mini-escapes may mean you don't have to face the "bad cold, busy day" dilemma quite as often in the future.
How do I make mini-escapes part of my busy day?
Try to find a time, at least once a day, when you can take just 5 or 10 minutes for yourself (or longer if you can!). This is a time for you to get away from your daily obligations, relax, and do something you enjoy. Read a book, listen to music, go for a short walk, or just sit quietly and take some deep breaths. Pick a time that will be easy for you to stick to each day. This will depend on your schedule, but here are a few ideas: first thing in the morning, on your lunch break, on your coffee break, right after you get home from work, or just before bed. Make this "your time" and set up your day so that you are not interrupted during this time.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Your-Bad-Cold-Busy-Day-Survival-Guide
