Trendy Tourist

Travel in Style

  • Travel Fashion
    • Packing
  • Style
    • Trends
    • Outfits
    • Key Pieces
  • Beauty
    • Hair
    • Makeup
    • Skincare
  • Travel
    • Travel Tips
    • Travel Guides
      • Asia
      • Europe
      • North America
      • Oceania
  • Lifestyle
    • Health and Wellness
    • Relationships
    • Stories
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Advertise
    • Guest Posting
    • Contact
  • Shop
    • SS22 Favourites
    • Travel Fashion
    • Travel Beauty
    • Travel Accessories

Explore

  • About
  • Advertise
  • Guest Posting
  • Shop
  • Contact

Connect

Health and Wellness, Lifestyle · September 11, 2019

10 Life-Changing Things I’ve Learned Through Illness

In the past few years, I’ve been poorly a lot. I’ve had viruses back to back, more than my fair share of bacterial infections and even one scary trip to A&E where I felt like I couldn’t breathe.

Being ill so frequently really puts life in perspective. It teaches you lessons that you might not learn if you have a better quality of life.

Obviously, my situation is nowhere as severe as some people’s. That said, any kind of recurrent sickness is frustrating for those who are trying to cope with it.

In fact, given that I seem to be someone who’s susceptible to infections, I want to share the things I’ve learned through illness over the years.

10 Life-Changing Things I've Learned Through Illness

1. A Healthy Mind Equals a Healthy Body

Things I’ve learned through illness 101: Mental and physical health go hand in hand.

Essentially, if you’re unhappy, stressed or dealing with a mental illness, then you’re more likely to become physically unwell too. (Or this is what I’ve personally discovered through my own experiences.)

For instance, I was recently in a toxic shared living environment which severely impacted my mental health. As a result, just before I was about to move out, I came down with my first virus. It wasn’t long before I contracted another one. And then when I was in the process of moving, I got a bacterial bladder infection which I needed antibiotics for.

This situation reiterated to me just how important it is to take care of yourself. If you’re surrounded by negativity, eliminate it from your life as soon as you can before your mind and body start to suffer from it.

Be kind to yourself and your body and you’ll keep pesky illnesses at bay. (Or at least cut down your recovery time.)

2. You Find Out Who Really Cares

Speaking of negativity, being sick repeatedly also lets you know who you can count on.

For example, when I messaged ‘friends’ telling them I was sick in the past, only a few replied sounding genuinely concerned. A couple of them had no sympathy. There was even an incident where someone told me, in all seriousness, to ‘man up.’

Needless to say, I’m not friends with those people anymore.

Why? Well, they’re not my true tribe. My true tribe care about my overall health and wellbeing. And it’s easy to find out who those people are because they’ll constantly check in during times of need with their kind words and well wishes.

(I’m forever thankful to you guys!)

3. Fluids Are Everything

Another one of the most important things I’ve learned through illness is to keep drinking water.

During a past episode with tonsillitis, I found it so painful to even swallow in the first 24 hours so I hardly drank anything. It was awful. I didn’t help myself at all because my throat dried out and became even more painful.

When I realised my mistake, I upped my water intake the next day and immediately felt so much better.

This rule applies to any illness: drink lots of fluids to keep your body hydrated and this will make you improve a little more each day.

4. There’s Only So Much Netflix You Can Handle At Once

Don’t get me wrong, your girl loves Netflix. She could happily watch Netflix for hours and keep herself entertained. But after the third or fourth day of Netflix, I start to wish there was a little bit more to life.

When you’ve been bed-bound for so long, it’s hard not to go a little stir crazy.

You long to have your full health back so you can get up out of bed, move about and carry on living your life like the rest of the world. But it’s kind of out of your control, which is difficult to accept if you’re a control freak like I am.

You just have to trust that your body is doing its thing and give your immune system time to kick in.

Feeling restless? I recommend mixing things up with other activities that you can do in bed, like arts and crafts, sewing and journalling. You’ve got this.

5. The Most Exciting Part of Your Day is Bathing

On the other hand, if you’re REALLY poorly, you’ll know the struggle of not being able to do anything but lay in bed and nap. Or stare into space.

You won’t be able to get out of bed for hours at a time (only to go to the toilet) and desperately crave any form of activity.

That’s why hobbling to the bathroom at the same time every day to bathe makes you squeal in pure delight. Why? Well, you realise that a) you made it to the bathroom, b) you’re going to be clean again and c) you get a break from doing nothing.

Halle-freaking-lullah.

What I've Learned Through Illness
What I've Learned Through Illness

6. Having Your Own Personal Nurse Makes You Recover Faster

Whether it’s my other half, friend or family member, I find that having someone to help me when I’m sick really aids my recovery. After all, if I rush around trying to do everything I normally do for myself, I just end up prolonging my recovery time.

I also have a bit of a bird brain when I’m physically ill. And this doesn’t bode well if I need to take antibiotics at a certain time of day.

Hence, having someone by your side is ideal to share the load during those days where you feel particularly out of sorts.

7. Antibiotics Always Seem to Take Ages to Kick in

Another of the key things I’ve learned through illness is that antibiotics (which can be used to treat bacterial infections) always take longer to kick in than you want them to.

Most doctors claim that it’ll take between two and three days for you to feel better, even though the medication actually begins working straight away. However, this feels like a lifetime when you’re sick. Am I right?

There have been times when I’ve had bacterial tonsillitis where my throat has felt like it’s about to close up. My eyes have watered in pain. And thoughts of “I don’t know if I can get through this” have polluted my brain before the meds decided to kick in a few days later.

And boy, does this test your patience!

8. Staggered Painkillers Can Be Your BFFs

If you’ve got a super painful infection (all my fellow UTI sufferers, please stand up), sometimes it’s impossible to get through a sick day without painkillers.

For that reason, ask your doctor which painkiller is the best for you and your illness. Paracetamol is notorious for bringing a fever down and ibuprofen is anti-inflammatory.

(Sometimes you may be permitted to take both at staggered intervals because they have different jobs, but always consult your doctor BEFORE you take ANY medication. And don’t exceed the recommended dosage.)

In essence, it’s hard not to be thankful for these miracle meds as they can really help you get through the tough times of your sickness period.

9. It Makes You Emotionally Vulnerable

Speaking of tough times, being ill can make you incredibly emotional. (Or it does with me.)

For instance, I know I’m ill when I’m crying at an episode of Kardashians because Kim hasn’t got the marble tiles that she wants in her new house. And omg how can life be so unfair? (But not really.)

There’s something about being poorly that makes me feel constantly on the verge of tears until my physical health returns to full normality. It’s like my body feels weak and so does my mind.

I can’t argue with anyone, I can’t debate and I can’t even muster up the energy to have a proper conversation half of the time. And do you know what? It’s crushing.

But you’ve just got to have faith that you’ll get better soon and be able to do all the things you usually can. I mean, a positive mindset is EVERYTHING if you want to speed up your recovery.

10. If You Don’t Have Your Health, You Don’t Have Anything

Finally, one of the most important things I’ve learned through illness is that being bed-bound for so long really makes you appreciate the times that you are 100% healthy.

We’re all guilty of taking the little things for granted sometimes, like being able to go for a walk, drive and live a full and active life. If you’re severely poorly, it stops you from doing anything. You literally have to put your life on hold and ride the illness out.

Thus, it really puts things into perspective. And sometimes this is needed when we’re lost in the repetition of our everyday lives.

Things I've Learned Through Illness

Embracing Things I’ve Learned Through Illness

As someone who seems to have a weak immune system, I try my best not to take my health for granted anymore.

Gone are the days where I run my body and mental health into the ground. I’ve learned from my past mistakes, I listen to my body now and I care for it better.

Plus, I always find that my state of mind always improves when I rest, as well as my physical health. After all, there’s nothing like being laid in bed all day to allow you to reflect on your life, your current position and your future goals.

Ultimately, catching illnesses frequently has significantly changed my outlook on life. All I want to do as a 29-year-old is live every day to the fullest.

What do you think to the things I’ve learned through illness? Do you have anything that you’ve learned from times that you were physically unwell?

Katie Davies

Katie Davies is the Yorkshire-based freelance writer who founded Trendy Tourist. Since 2017, she has written for over 100 companies on a range of subjects, from fashion to marketing. When she’s not producing content, you can find her shopping, exploring a new place or sitting somewhere having a cup of builder’s tea.

  • Katie Davies
    https://www.trendytourist.co.uk/author/katie/
    The Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
  • Katie Davies
    https://www.trendytourist.co.uk/author/katie/
    7 Reasons Why Stray New Zealand Changed My Life
  • Katie Davies
    https://www.trendytourist.co.uk/author/katie/
    East Coast Australia Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide
  • Katie Davies
    https://www.trendytourist.co.uk/author/katie/
    Top Things to Do in Wilmington NC

Posted By: Katie Davies · In: Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Stewart Island
5 Must Do’s Around Lake Wanaka

You’ll Also Love

Plane Travel AnxietyHow to Prepare for a Long Haul Flight (and Alleviate Anxiety)
Long Distance Relationship TipsHow to Make a Long Distance Relationship Work (10 Top Tips)
Valentines Day Gifts for Travellers10 Affordable Valentine’s Day Gifts for Travellers

Sign Up to Our Mailing List to Get the FREE “Prep Like a Pro” Travel Checklist for Your Next Trip!

Comments

  1. June 6, 2022 at 8:58 am

    Hi Katie, Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts. For the first time in my life (I am 57), a cold turned into pneumonia and I have been bed bound for the past 4 weeks, too weak and tired to do anything basically. Not the end of the world. I know I will be fine again and I count my blessings every single day. But it made me look at my life and just like you, I realised I have to make some changes. Soon. Reading your story kind of felt like talking to a friend who experienced something similar. So, again, thank you for writing this blog. I am sending you love from the Netherland and wishing you a long, happy and healthy life. All the best, Anna

    Reply
    • June 7, 2022 at 12:30 pm

      Hi Anna,

      Thanks so much for your kind comment. It’s always lovely to hear that something I wrote has given someone comfort – so I really appreciate you letting me know!

      I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been so poorly. My sister has had pneumonia twice so I know how much of an awful illness it is.

      I’m sending you so much love and light and I hope you get better soon!

      Hugs always,

      Katie xo

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get on the List

Shop My Picks

  • Travel Fashion
  • SS22 Favourites
  • Travel Accessories
MORE AIRPORT LOOKS ✨ …that are comfy yet styl MORE AIRPORT LOOKS ✨
…that are comfy yet stylish!
1. Jumpsuit Queen
(For those who want to feel like they can breathe and move comfortably on the go while looking super chic for summer)
2. Cute and Cool
(Featuring an on-trend co-ord for sleek airplane style that you can effortlessly throw together)
3. Modern Simplicity
(A contemporary update on the jeans-and-a-tee classic clothing uniform ideal for travelling, with key pieces like the shacket and jeggings) 
Which one would you wear? 1, 2 or 3?
All products shown are in stock right now! I’ve linked them via my LTK shop but I’ll also link them in my Story for you guys. 🔗
Copy and paste this @shop.ltk in your browser: https://liketk.it/3Im8t 💕
#virtualstyling #virtualstyle #virtualstylists #virtualstylist #travelcapsule #travelthursday #travelcapsulewardrobe #airportoutfit #airportstyle #airportfashion #airportlook #airportlooks #travellook #traveloutfit #traveloutfits #millennialfashion #outfitideas4you #trendytourist #midsizegals #midsizegirl #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #midsizeblogger #ltkstyle #ltkfashion #ltkeurope #ltktravel #ltkunder50 #ltkunder100
Current bottomless brunch uniform: an oversized sh Current bottomless brunch uniform: an oversized shirt, high-waisted jeans and square-toed strappy heels. 💃🏼
This is basically the 2022 version of “jeans and a nice top” — comfortable and practical for a long day/evening out but still contemporary and stylish.
I went for a soft colour palette for Saturday’s brunch in York because I thought it would look fresher for the summer season. 👀 
I also usually add a light jacket to tackle the pesky British elements but I didn’t need one last weekend. 🥵
The gorgeous mint green satin shirt is from @zara and my straight-leg jeans are @topshop (old), adding some nineties nostalgia to the mix.
I’ll link all pieces in my Story. 💕 
#bottomlessbrunch #goingoutoutfit #zarashirt #zarastyle #springlooks #springlook #oversizedshirt #straightjeans #topshopstyle #topshopgirls #jeansandanicetop #millennialfashion #sheingb #outfitblog #outfitblogger #outfitbloggers #outfitideas4you #outfitideasforyou #outfitdiary #outfit4real #outfitsoftheday #styleonabudget #highstreetfashion #highstreetstyle #trendytourist #midsizegals #midsizegirl #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #midsizeblogger
Seeing all these news headlines about airport queu Seeing all these news headlines about airport queues is so frustrating. 😖
A trip abroad starts at the airport, and it breaks my heart that people who haven’t been able to travel or go on holiday for years and have worked so hard to save up are now experiencing delays and cancellations when it’s finally time for their trip to begin.
Speaking from experience, these queues stress you out before you’ve even got to your final destination. ✈️
I’ve flown from Leeds Bradford airport three times in the last nine months and Manchester airport once in the last few weeks. Each trip to the airport has taught me something different.
That said, I wanted to share a few things you can do to speed up your time at the airport so that you can make your flight and have the much-needed holiday you deserve. 🤗
Above all, follow your specific airline or airport recommendations. (These usually come in the form of an email or text message a couple of days before your flight.)
To read more about my recent airport experiences, check out the full article either via the link in bio or my Story.
Hope this helps. 💕
#airportdiaries #airportsecurity #traveltip #traveltipsandtricks #traveltiptuesday #traveltipstuesday #traveltips101 #traveltuesday #traveltuesdays #tblogger #tbloggers #tblogs #tbloggersuk #travelbloggervibes #travelblogs #travelbloggerslife #yorkshireblogger #yorkshirebloggers #leedsbradfordairport #leedsbradford #manchesterairport #tripplanning #tripprep #holidayprep
“…Eyes of the bluest skies.” 🎶⛅️ (Wi “…Eyes of the bluest skies.” 🎶⛅️
(With a shirt to match!)
I went for a bronzed, natural makeup look last weekend for drinks with the girls.
I’m really enjoying makeup more now that I’m older - it’s just so fun to play around with when you’ve got the time. 
Here are the products I used: 🤗
Primer - @nyxcosmetics_uk Pore Filler
Tinted Moisturiser - @tartecosmetics Skin Treat in shade “Medium”
Concealer - @esteelauderuk Double Wear Stay in Place in shade “Light Medium (Cool)”
Blush - NYX Sweet Cheeks in shade “Bang Bang”
Setting Spray - @urbandecayuki All Nighter
Eyeshadow - @toofacedlovestheuk “Teddy Bare” Palette
Mascara - Tarte Cosmetics “Big Ego”
Eyeliner - @kvdbeauty Tattoo Eyeliner
Brushes - @realtechniques Essential Eye Brushes
Eyebrows - @anastasiabeverlyhills Brow Wiz in “Medium Brown”
Lipstick - Tarte Cosmetics Lip Paint in shade “Bestie”
Shirt - @targetstyle 
All products (or similar) linked via my @shop.ltk app (find it in my bio or latest Stories). 💕
#liketkit #LTKbeauty #LTKunder100 #ltkeurope #ltkunder50 #nyxcosmetics_uk #realtechniques #abhbrows #targetfinds #targetrun #targetstyle #beautybloggeruk #beautyblogging #beautybloggersuk #naturalmakeuplook #naturalmakeuplooks #makeupbloggeruk #makeupbloggers #makeupblogs #makeupcommunity #bbloggersuk #bbloggeruk #makeupproducts #makeupessentials #bronzedmakeup #holidaymakeup #vacationmakeup
Mentally I’m still here… 💭 I wish I could Mentally I’m still here… 💭
I wish I could say that one of the yachts in the background is mine but I think I’ve got a fair few more articles to write first. 😩
Anyone else loving sixties-inspired prints for Spring/Summer? 🌞
This cute little shirt dress is ideal for those warmer evenings on holiday when you want to flash your tan and feel comfortable but still look like you’ve made an effort. 💁🏼‍♀️ 
Entire outfit is @shein_gb and will link all products via @shop.ltk app (head over to my Stories for the dress link - currently 41% off!).
Ltk shop link: https://liketk.it/3G3Yb 💕 
#liketkit #LTKunder50 #LTKstyletip #ltkeurope #ltkunder100 #ltkfashion #ltkstyle #holidaystyle #holidayfashion #vacationstyle #trendytouristuk #travelfashion #travelstyle #vacaystyle #sheingb #sheinforall #vacationdress #holidaydress #summerdresses #anotheroutfitpost #outfitblog #outfitbloggers #outfitblogger #fbloggeruk #fbloggersuk #bloggerstyle #fbloggerstyle #fashionbloggeruk #ukfashionblogger #styleblogging
Courtyard strollin’… (Looking for my next cup Courtyard strollin’…
(Looking for my next cup of coffee or glass of sangria — it all depends on the time of day!) 😉☕️🍹
This cute courtyard was in the middle of Palma city. The architecture and restaurants huddled in the square with al fresco drinking and dining instantly transported me back to Italy.
It reminded me of past cruise ship holidays with my parents where we visited the likes of Naples, Capri, Rome, Florence and Pisa and we would be in awe of the charm and beauty of these places.
But this post is about Palma in Majorca. 🇪🇸
Palma itself is a delight!
There’s so much going on in the centre, so much life and hustle and bustle, which is refreshing to experience after over two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions. 😅
I enjoyed our leisurely peruse of the city, soaking up the sun and seeing historic sights such as The Cathedral of Santa Maria, which dates back to 1601.
We even spent some time getting lost amongst the cobbled backstreets, popping in and out of shops before we regained our bearings once again. 😍
Our day in Palma reminded me how much I love exploring and how much travelling makes me feel fulfilled.
You just can’t beat it, right? ❤️
I already can’t wait for my next European city break (which hasn’t even been booked yet!).
What are some of your fave European cities? 👇🏻
#palmamallorca #trendytouristuk #palmacity #europetravels #exploreeurope #spaintravel  #travelblogging #travelbloggervibes #tbloggers #tbloggersuk #travelbloggersofig #travelbloggeruk #uktravelblogger #uktravelbloggers #visitpalma #travelgram #travelsquad #visitmallorca #mallorcaisland #mallorcagram #balearicisland #balearicislands
Happiest when I’m by the seaside. 🌊 One of Happiest when I’m by the seaside. 🌊 
One of my all-time favourite travel fashion pieces is the blue denim “mom-style” shorts.
You know, the relaxed-fit and high-waisted type that go with just about anything? 😉
You can pair them with a strappy top and sandals or flip flops for those warm summer days.
Or you can take them from day to night by swapping the strappy top for a chic blouse or cropped shirt and the flat sandals or flip flops for heels.
They’re just so comfy and cute! J’adore. ❤️
These ones are from @marksandspencerfashionpr which I’ll link via the @shop.LTK app along with some similar options.
(Check out the post here: https://liketk.it/3F1wG)
I lived in mine for my most recent trip to Majorca - even throwing them on over a bikini with a kaftan for those lazy pool days. ✌🏻 
Who else is a fan of denim shorts for summer holidays? ☀️
#liketkit #LTKswim #LTKunder50 #ltkunder100 #ltkstyle #ltkfashion #ltkstyletip #ltkstyle #ltkeurope 
#swimwearfashion #bikinistyle #bikinifashion #denimshorts #denimshort #jeanshorts #holidaystyle #holidayfashion #vacationstyle #trendytouristuk #travelfashion #travelstyle #vacaystyle #poolfashion #poolstyle #beachlook #beachfashion #beachstyle #beachoutfit #momshorts
That post-holiday feeling! You know, when you lan That post-holiday feeling!
You know, when you land after a few days in the sun and you feel refreshed, recharged and ready to take on the world again. 🙌🏻
And it helps if you travel in comfy clothes.
Plane, train and bus rides can be time-consuming (and stressful when things go wrong) so comfy travel gear makes the journey that little bit more bearable. ✈️ 
I’m currently loving lounge sets to travel in, such as this “Bon Voyage” lemon number from @lornaluxe x @inthestyle . 🍋
You can still get your hands on the shorts but, unfortunately, the sweatshirt is out of stock.
Not to worry though - I’ve linked some more pretty lounge sets to travel in via my shop on the @shop.LTK app. 
Shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content by visiting: https://liketk.it/3EAx9.
#liketkit #LTKstyletip #LTKeurope #ltktravel #ltkstyle #ltkfashion #ltkunder50 #ltkunder100 #trendytourist #airportoutfit #airportstyle #airportlook #airportfashion #airportvibes #travelfashion #travelstyles #traveloutfit #traveloutfits #travelfashionista #travellook #travelclothes #travelclothing #inthestyle #travelista #ukfashionbloggers #ukfashionblogger #fbloggerstyle #fbloggeruk #fbloggersuk
One of the best feelings in the world is those nig One of the best feelings in the world is those night-before-the-airport butterflies. 🦋
You know, when the suitcase is finally packed, the plane outfit is laid out and there’s nothing left to do other than get a good night’s sleep before you head to your new destination ✨ tomorrow ✨!
(But then you’re so excited that you end up not having the best sleep! 🤦🏼‍♀️)
Are you one of those travellers who gets to the airport super early or one of those super last minute people? ✈️ 
(I’m the former!)
#travelquote #travelquotes #travelquotestoliveby #travelquoteoftheday #travelthursday #travelthoughts #travelblogging #travelbloggervibes #travelinspirations #travelpassion #lifeinspiration #lifeinspo #quoteofday #quoteoflife #quoteoftoday #trendytourist #tbloggers #tbloggersuk 
#travelsquad #travelgirlsgo #travelgirlshub #planelife #airportlife
I’m blue da ba dee da ba di. 🎶 Okay so I uni I’m blue da ba dee da ba di. 🎶
Okay so I unintentionally wore blue, white and black all weekend.
Outfit one was for a Betty’s brunch for the hubby’s birthday and exploring Thirsk. 👀
The blue denim dress and checked shacket combo felt a bit sixties inspired and sassy teamed with black tights and white boots.
Then outfit two was for a pub lunch and drinks with the family (hubby’s birthday celebrations part two).
I went for a blue floral top, comfy black jeggings, a blue denim shearling jacket and those white boots again. 👢
This felt more seventies rocker vibes so naturally I had to wear it with attitude!
Which outfit is your fave? Details below. ✌🏻
Denim dress, shacket, tights, boots: all @marksandspencerfashionpr
Bag: @coach
Floral top and boots as before: @marksandspencerfashionpr
Jeggings: @uniqlo_uk 
Jacket: @levis_uk 
Sunglasses: vintage
Bag: @nastygal 
#outfitblog #outfitblogger #outfitbloggers #outfitlook #outfitselfie #outfitshot #outfitideas4you #outfitideasforyou #outfitdiary #outfit4real #outfitsoftheday #outfitrepeater #denimdress #denimdresses #denimjackets #denimjacketstyle #fashionblogging #ootddetails #ootdbloggers #styleonabudget #highstreetfashion #highstreetstyle #trendytourist #midsizegals #midsizegirl #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #midsizeblogger
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2022 Trendy Tourist · Theme by 17th Avenue