How to Manage Work Life Balance while Navigating Ills and Chills

For starters we do need to mention, the all-powerful work/life balance, is really about stress management. Stress undermines the immune system and is the often the top contributor for those that feel run-down and seem to catch every seasonal threat that comes their way. A constant high level of cortisol can negatively impact the immune system. Managing your stress levels is of high importance, whether it’s creating a buffer of time between meetings to allow the body to reset or doing a meditation at the end of your day, find what works for you.

Keeping hydrated allows your mucous membranes to stay moist and therefore allowing your 1st line of defence to do its job by stopping microorganisms to enter then body. Hydration also keeps your cells working in an optimal way and supports focus and concentration. Good hydration also supports your lymphatic system, which supports the flushing and removal of toxins, waste products and pathogens.

Using good old-fashioned soap and water to wash your hands is the best way to avoid transferring microorganism. Avoid hand sanitisers as they destroy our natural protective microbiome on our skin.

Keeping up regular exercise that you enjoy, whether its lifting weights at the gym, running or dancing around the house can support a healthy immune system. However, if you feel like you’ve got a bit of the ills and chills then it pays to back off the training and rest.

These two go hand in hand because natural light in your eyes first thing in the morning supports your circadian rhythm which supports your sleep at night. While you sleep at night your immune system is working hard alongside your liver and lymphatic system taking out the trash and keeping you healthy.

You’ve done most of the things above; however, its winter and all your colleagues are dropping like flies, and then you start to feel that familiar scratchy feeling in the back of your throat. SIGH!
In an ideal world you’d block out the week and just rest, read, or watch Netflix until you’re better, but that’s not the case, you’ve got a deadline due, and the kids still need to get to school and after school activities.

Let your colleagues know straight away that your off work. Delegate as many tasks as you can if they are urgent and can be passed on. Reschedule meetings as you won’t be at your best. Communication is key, your colleagues will appreciate it.

If you still need to do some work, don’t go into the office and spread your germs. Besides you’ll be more likely to get some rest if you’re at home and therefore you’ll recover faster.

Put on your do not disturb and block yourself out some rest time. This is most important for a faster recovery.

When it comes to family, it really does take a village. Having those support systems in place like the school mums or grandparents to help with school drop-offs and pick-ups can be a live saver. And while you’re at it drop the Mum Guilt, you’ll be better soon, and routines will resume.

Have in the freezer, pre-made meals like soups and stews ready to go. Easy to heat and eat. There’s nothing like chicken bone broth soup when you’re under the weather.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to push through the ills and chills instead of slowing down. But by prioritizing immune health, planning ahead, and allowing yourself time to rest, you’ll recover faster and return to full strength more efficiently. Whether it’s managing stress, staying hydrated, nourishing your body, and choosing a natural immune support like Viralex® Attack Day & Night, every little step makes a difference. So, listen to your body, adjust where needed, and remember—a well-supported immune system is the key to keeping up with life’s demands.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. For more information contact our Naturopath on 0800 446 634 or visit www.goodhealth.co.nz  Good Health, NZ, Auckland.