It is February and once again, it is a popular time to catch a cold or virus. Instead of sitting on your couch, watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S and eating chocolate, here are some alternative and more affective ways to take care of yourself.

Fluids are extremely important to keep with you at all times. Water, juice or Gatorade are ways to stay hydrated and make the sickness cycle through your system faster. Make sure you always have a drink with you when you go to class or work.

Medicine is also important. Take a visit to the Biola Health Center, located in between the library and the bell tower, the minute you start feeling ill. They will be able to help you figure out what medicine would be best for your symptoms. While you are waiting for an appointment, Sudafed is good for cold like symptoms, Tylenol is also good for cold symptoms along with headaches and body aches.

Keep a box of tissues with you everywhere you go so you are prepared and ready to take care of a runaway nose problem at anytime during the day.

Eating a bland diet will also help if you are experiencing stomach problems. The less complex the food is, the easier it is on your stomach. If you are losing your appetite, remember that it is important to keep eating even though you may not feel like it. Something light and easy like soup is always a soothing and safe way to fill a stomach.

Prayer is also another solid solution to a sickness. Ask God to heal you and make you better, then watch Him faithfully heal you.

No matter what your symptoms are, health and healing is on the way, just make sure you are taking the proper steps to get there. Happy healing.