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Let me tell you—being sick is not for the weak.
I recently came down with what started as a basic head cold… and turned into a full-blown sinus infection and a double ear infection. Yep, double trouble. I haven’t been that sick in years, and honestly, it completely knocked me off my feet.
To make matters worse, it hit during one of the busiest times in my work schedule. I had video content to film, projects to wrap up, and an overflowing to-do list that had to be put on hold. There was no filming anything with a scratchy throat, sneezing fits, and a voice that sounded like I’d swallowed gravel.
As frustrating as it was to press pause, I also realized something important—sometimes our bodies make us slow down when we won’t do it ourselves. And while I didn’t love missing deadlines or feeling totally unproductive, I did find a bit of peace in the slower pace, warm blankets, and hot mugs of tea.
When you’re not feeling well, you’ll try just about anything to feel slightly human again. So today I’m sharing the products and little comforts that helped me get through those miserable days—some are longtime favorites, and others I discovered out of desperation. Either way, they made a difference, and maybe they’ll help you too next time you’re feeling crummy.
Give Me All the Vicks Products
Nope, this is not a sponsored post (although I wish it were—hi, Vicks, call me). But truly, Vicks products were my saving grace during this whole sick season.
Vicks VapoShower Steamers
These are a must. I started and ended each day with a hot shower and one of these little menthol bombs in the corner. They helped open up my sinuses, made it easier to breathe, and created a mini spa moment—even if I was still sniffling the entire time. Especially at night when congestion was at its worst, these helped me wind down.
Vicks VapoCool Throat Drops
Hands-down my favorite cough drops. They give you that intense cooling relief and helped soothe my throat when it felt raw from coughing. Just a heads-up though—my husband can’t stand them, so they might not be for everyone. (But if you love a strong menthol feel, these are amazing.)
Vicks Nasal Spray
Okay, honesty time: I didn’t love this one. It made my nose tickle in a weird way and almost immediately made me sneeze, which pretty much undid the whole point of using it. It may work for others, but this one’s a pass for me.
Vicks VapoStick
I love this little stick! It’s a mess-free version of the classic VapoRub. I used it right under my nose and on my chest before bed, and it really helped keep my sinuses open overnight. Plus, no sticky fingers afterward—win-win.
Vicks Tissues
Can we talk about how amazing these are? When you’re blowing your nose every five minutes, regular tissues just don’t cut it. These are soft, infused with lotion, and make a huge difference in preventing that awful red, raw nose situation. I keep a box in every room now—sick or not.
Other Things That Helped Me Feel Better
Hot Tea and Coffee
I’m usually an iced coffee kind of girl, but when I’m sick? Gimme all the hot drinks. There’s something so comforting about a hot cup of coffee or tea when your throat is sore and your head is pounding.
My go-to teas when I’m under the weather:
- Throat Coat – soothing and herbal
- Peppermint Tea – helps with congestion
- Ginger Lemon Tea – great for nausea and inflammation
I always add a touch of honey—it coats the throat and has natural antibacterial properties. Plus, it just tastes comforting.
Sidenote for my fellow Texans: If you’re in Texas and near a Juiceland, I highly recommend grabbing their Fixer Elixir. I’ll be honest—it’s kind of nasty and super spicy, but it works wonders on a sore throat and congestion. It’s like a little spicy shot of relief!
A Warm Compress
Sometimes simple things work best. A warm washcloth over my sinuses or ears helped relieve the pressure and pain, especially in the evenings. I also laid one across my chest when I was feeling really congested. It’s an easy, old-school remedy, but it works!
Hydration Helpers
Staying hydrated is so important when you’re sick. While I love Liquid I.V. when I’m working out or need an energy boost, it was a little too sweet for me when I wasn’t feeling well. I found GatorLyte drinks to be the perfect balance—just enough flavor without making me nauseous.
Plain water, herbal tea, and brothy soups also became my hydration heroes. I typically make a chicken soup that is modified from this recipe.
Embracing the Slow Days
Sometimes healing means fully surrendering to rest, and that’s exactly what I did.
I gave myself permission to:
- Binge old comfort shows (hello, Gilmore Girls marathon)
- Take midday naps curled up with my sweet puppies
- Listen to my favorite podcasts while sipping tea
- Ignore my to-do list and just be still
It felt strange at first—especially when you’re used to go-go-go mode—but my body truly needed the break. And once I gave myself permission to rest without guilt, I started to feel better both physically and mentally.
Final Thoughts
Getting sick is never fun, but having a little comfort stash ready to go makes all the difference. Whether it’s your favorite tissues, a throat-soothing tea, or your binge-worthy Netflix show, these little things matter when you’re not feeling your best.
If you’ve got your own sick-day must-haves, I’d love to hear them! Leave a comment and let’s create the ultimate “under-the-weather survival kit” together 💛
