Sitting here in my pajamas on my mountain of tissues and cough medicine, I was inspired to write some ideas on what to do when you have that inevitable cold and cough. I will admit that your options are somewhat limited if you feel as crappy as I do, but it is still possible to do fun things other than moping around or laying in bed. Hopefully this list will give you some ideas on how to keep your mind off that running nose of yours!
1. Catch up on your shows.
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Being holed up in bed is the perfect excuse to watch all the episodes you missed of your favorite series due to homework and deadlines. Whether it be starting a new show or throwing back to your childhood favorite, it's the ideal time to do it because you won't feel guilty. After all, you can't do anything else. Just Netflix and chill. Literally.
2. Color.
Try the new sensation that's sweeping the nation. Grab yourself an art therapy book and some colored pencils, gel pens, crayons, etc. Or just print out a template and relax; time will fly by.
3. Catch up on homework.
This one may be a buzzkill, but trust me, it'll be worth it in the long run. Even though you're sick, the rest of the world is still turning and if you don't keep up with your work, it's going to be a harder transition when you go back to your classes/job/life. Understandably, at your worst, you do not want to do anything, but if your illness starts to feel a little bit more bearable or if you are completely bored out of your mind, it's probably in your best interest to pick up an assignment.
4. Read a book.
This is always one of my favorites. Nothing like cozying up with a nice book and your box of tissues for the day!
5. Cook yourself a meal.
It will kill time and it comes with an immediate reward! Whether it be sick toast or a four-course meal, cook something for yourself since you can't go out!
6. Exercise!
So if you're not completely 100 percent sick with the flu or pneumonia, it might be a good idea to workout while you're stuck at home. I'm not saying a full body workout, but think about pulling out the weights while you watch TV or do some yoga. Trust me, you will feel so much better that you actually did something productive when you're better.
7. Do that fun DIY thing you saw on Pinterest.
We all know Pinterest is the best place to go when you're bored, inspired, feeling creative or any other time of the day. So when you're not feeling your best, break out your DIY board and do a project! It's the perfect time because you're stuck in your house with nothing else to do. Why not try something new?
8. Clean a little.
Again, this one might be a buzzkill but just like catching up on homework and working out you'll be happy, that you actually accomplished something other than finishing "Gossip Girl" when you're better.
9. Shower.
I know it might take so much energy to crawl to the shower, get undressed, get dressed and all and I know you probably aren't showering because what's the point? It's not like you can go anywhere when you're sick, but this one is for your benefit. You will most likely feel at least 10 percent better if you get a shower because your body will be refreshed and renewed. Also you might stink.
10. Bond.
If you are lucky to be home with another person, don't take them for granted. Make sure to thank your mom, husband, aunt or child who is doing all the work while you recover. If they get you soup, be grateful. And if you're feeling a little better, go into the other room with them and watch a movie. Being sick doesn't entitle you to be rude or mean. Don't isolate yourself because then you're going to be sick and alone, and that's no fun!
