So many people I have spoken to of late have either just gotten over, or know someone that is dealing with influenza. This nasty virus can hit when least expected and throw your life into turmoil! I received a visit from the nasty flu earlier in the week and thankfully took all precautions which prevented a household full of flu sufferers! Here's my Top 5 Tips on how to cope with the dreaded flu:

1. REST REST REST

Yes, most of us (especially women) don't understand the meaning of this word or have children which prevent us from understanding the mean of this word. It's really not going to hurt to leave the washing sitting there for the day or the dishes sitting on the sink. Do your best to rest when you can.

2. DRINK TEA

My Mum came up with an amazing healing tea recipe for fighting the flu virus: 1L water 1 Lemon (sliced) (High in Vitamin C, boosts immunity) 1 Tbsp Manuka Honey (Antiseptic, Antibacterial provides cough relief, boosts immunity, soothes sore throat) 1 Cinnamon Stick (Anti-inflammatory, Antiviral, boosts immunity) -Place Lemon & Cinnamon in water and bring to the boil. -Once boiled, turn heat down and simmer -Stir in honey then serve 3. EAT CHICKEN SOUP

Chicken (including the bones) contains B vitamins, magnesium, calcium and zinc which will help to boost immunity and fight your flu. You can add whatever ingredients you like into your soup and if you want to get better quickly, choose healing ingredients! This is what I included in mine along with some angel hair pasta: Carrot & Sweet Potato - Vitamin A Leek, Kale, Beans - B Vitamins Freshly Crushed Garlic - Antibiotic Turmeric - Anti-inflammatory Oregano - Antibacterial & Anti-Viral 4. INCREASE YOUR ZINC, VITAMIN C, GARLIC & ECHINACEA INTAKE

These will all assist in reducing flu symptoms and boost immunity, getting you back to your normal self as quickly as possible. I do my best to consume food in its natural state but as a busy Mum, I find vitamin, mineral & herb supplements work wonderful.

5. STAY HYDRATED

Along with drinking the immunity boosting tea recipe above, it's important to stay hydrated with loads of water.

Although sometimes it cannot be helped, you want to try your best not to pass your flu onto anyone else. Stay in your house, maintain proper hygiene (COVER YOUR MOUTH WHEN YOU COUGH!!!, Wash hands regularly, wash linen and disinfect everything you touch) and fingers crossed there's no more cold or flu's heading your way in the near future!