Plan for important days
Remember, stress is there in the good times and bad. Holidays and other important days in your life can create stress too. If you’re susceptible to stress-triggered cold sores, it’s important to plan for important days.
Rest up. Anticipation can eat away at your much-needed sleep but you shouldn’t let it. Those seven to eight hours of sleep your body needs can restore and maintain your mental and physical health and may be your biggest defense against a cold sore. So make getting a good night’s sleep a priority.
Eat fresh. Food is at the centre of most holidays and parties but it’s important to consider how much and what you’re eating. Steer clear of canned and processed foods, which are high in salt and low in important nutrients. Favour fresh foods where possible.
Walk it out. When you can, try to get out for a walk or use the stairs rather than the lift. Exercise is a proven stress-buster: just 10 minutes can make a difference in your mood.
Make time for yourself. On important days, you might feel pressured to always be ‘on’. But taking a little time for yourself – a quiet walk, a few minutes of meditation – can help keep you energised and focused.
Stay in the moment. Planning is good but constantly focusing on tomorrow, next week and the coming year can be overwhelming. Those considerations may often have little to do with what you’re doing today. Remind yourself to stay in the moment and enjoy what you’re doing now.