6 Holistic Health Tips to Feel Better During Flu Season

Flu season has a way of slowing us down, doesn’t it? When we’re not feeling 100%, it’s our body’s way of waving a little flag and asking us to take a break, rest, and maybe even reset. Instead of just pushing through, let’s listen to those signals and give ourselves the care we truly need. Here are a few of my favorite tips to help you bounce back and feel better.

1. Yoga Nidra: Deep Rest When You Need It Most

Sometimes sleep alone isn’t enough to make us feel rested, especially when our body is fighting off something. Yoga Nidra, or “yogic sleep,” is a guided relaxation that takes you to a place of deep rest. It’s amazing for calming your mind and giving your immune system the support it needs to heal.

What I Do: I set aside 20 minutes, lie down, and let a guided Yoga Nidra session carry me into relaxation. Even when I don’t have the energy for much else, this feels like pressing reset.

2. Garlic: A Kitchen Staple That Works Like Medicine

Garlic is one of the simplest and most powerful tools for keeping your immune system strong. But there’s a trick to getting the most out of it: after chopping or crushing garlic, let it sit for five minutes before you use it. This activates allicin, the compound that gives garlic its health-boosting power.

How I Use It: I mix raw garlic into warm soups or spread it on toast with a little olive oil. It’s simple and effective.

3. My Go-To Comfort Drink: Ginger Tea with Honey and Cinnamon

When my throat feels scratchy or my body feels inflamed, I turn to ginger tea. The fresh ginger soothes, the honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, and cinnamon helps keep my blood sugar steady. It’s like a warm hug in a cup, especially when I’m not at my best.

How I Make It: Steep a few slices of fresh ginger in boiling water, add a spoonful of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and sip slowly.

4. Saffron: A Little Luxury That’s Worth It

Saffron might seem fancy, but it’s a spice with real benefits. It’s known to help lift your mood and calm your nervous system, which can be just what you need when you’re feeling run down.

My Tip: Add a few strands of saffron to warm milk or herbal tea before bed. It’s a small ritual that feels grounding and comforting.

5. Clear Your Head with an Essential Oil Blend

When I’m dealing with congestion or just need to breathe easier, I turn to a mix of essential oils. A combination of tea tree, rosemary, and peppermint can work wonders to open up your airways and refresh your mind.

What I Do: Add a couple of drops of each oil to a bowl of steaming water, drape a towel over your head, and breathe deeply for a few minutes. It feels like a mini spa treatment.

6. Flu Season = Permission to Slow Down

Let’s be honest, sometimes getting sick is the universe’s way of telling us to stop, rest, and take stock. It’s okay to cancel plans, stay in bed, and just focus on yourself for a bit. Use this time to reconnect with what really matters—whether that’s taking a long nap, sharing a quiet moment with someone you love, or simply doing nothing for a change.

A Reminder: Your body is amazing at healing when you give it the time and space to do so. Let this be a chance to slow down and refill your tank.