What To Do When You Feel “Something Coming On”
As a Functional Medicine doctor, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of responding quickly when you start to feel under the weather, especially during cold and flu season.
Your body is sending you signals, and with mindful attention and care, you can often prevent things from escalating, and support your body in healing. I’ve created my “Under the Weather” protocol to help you recover swiftly while nurturing yourself with compassion and care.
SLEEP
Rest is truly one of the most powerful tools for healing. When you’re feeling run down, your body needs extra time to repair and regenerate. Prioritize sleep and relaxation. I know that sometimes stress or discomfort can make sleep difficult, so if you need extra support, I recommend my Good Night Sleep Checklist to help improve your rest.
SIP
Hydration is crucial when you’re feeling off. Ensure you have access to clean, filtered water and drink as much as your body needs. This will support your body’s natural detoxification processes and help flush out any toxins. I recommend avoiding plastic bottles—opt for glass containers instead to minimize exposure to chemicals.
SOUP
Simple, nutrient-rich meals are the way to go when you’re under the weather. Chicken and vegetable and bone broth-based soups are ideal because they’re packed with protein and nutrients but are gentle on your digestive system. Looking for inspiration? Download my Soup Recipes for some delicious and healthy options.
SKIP
To reduce inflammation and promote healing, skip all gluten, dairy, sugar, and processed foods. These foods can contribute to inflammation and sap your energy. When your body is fighting something, you want to give it all the support you can. If you’re finding it challenging to transition to gluten and dairy-free eating, download my Paleo Diet Quick Start Guide for easy tips on getting started.
SUPPORT
Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health. Take time for meditation, mindfulness, and positive thinking. Limit your exposure to electronics and opt for uplifting activities—whether that’s listening to music, reading a comforting book, or practicing guided meditations. I highly recommend Belleruth Naparstek’s guided meditations and the Muse device for mindfulness support. These tools can help you center yourself and reduce stress, giving your body the mental space it needs to heal.
SOAK
Treat yourself to a soothing, detoxifying bath. It can help relax your muscles and calm your mind while promoting detoxification. My Clear + Restore Bath is a wonderful way to detox while enjoying a moment of self-care.
SUPPLEMENT
Boost your immune system with targeted supplements. My Viramax supplement is an excellent choice for immune support, especially during cold and flu season or when traveling. For more immune-boosting supplements, take a look at my full recommendations here.
SEE YOUR DOCTOR
While home remedies and self-care can be very effective, it’s important to listen to your body and trust your intuition. If you don’t feel better quickly, or if something feels off, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. It’s always better to seek help early and prevent a more serious issue from developing.
Remember, your body is resilient, and with the right support, you can often turn things around before they become more severe. Treat yourself with compassion, rest when you need it, and give your body the care it deserves.
If you’re ever unsure or feel like something more serious is going on, trust your intuition and get checked out.
Your health is your greatest asset, and it’s always worth protecting.