Thankfully, I don't get sick very often at all. Oh, but when I do happen to catch a cold, I would have to say that probably the worst part about it is the fact that when my nose is all stuffed up, it can be hard as hell to get a good night's rest because breathing through my mouth is annoying. Like, super annoying. So, since it is officially cold and flu season, I think we all know that this is the time when we're more susceptible to catching the virus known as the common cold than ever. As far as preventative measures go, it's important that you strengthen your immune system, that you wash your hands every time you come into your house and prepare to have a meal and that you get plenty of rest (no less than six hours of sleep a night, if you can).
Yet what if you already have a sore throat, stuffy nose, fever, headache and/or some fatigue going on? While (amazingly) there is still not an official cure for the common cold, one of the best things that you can do to reduce the amount of time that you have to endure the virus (because most colds stick around for between 7-10 days) is to get several consecutive nights of sound sleep. And how can you pull that off when you have some (or all) of the symptoms that I just mentioned? Hopefully these 10 hacks can give you some of the relief that you seek.
1. Eat Something Spicy and Drink Lots of Fluids Throughout the Day
Now here's something that just might surprise you. If spicy foods are so your thing, use your cold as an opportunity to treat yourself. The reason why I say that is because a lot of spicy stuff contains some amount of chili peppers and a bioactive compound in those is capsaicin. Capsaicin is great because it helps to break up any congestion you may have. Not only that but spices like turmeric contain anti-inflammatory properties too.
Just make sure that if draining mucus is bringing gastrointestinal issues along with eating spicy things that you don't follow through with this first tip. The reason why is because, if your tummy is upset, spicy foods can make matters somewhat worse.
Speaking of things that you should consume, it's definitely important that you drink as much water as possible. Water helps to flush out your system, regulate your body temperature and keep you well hydrated. On the topic of drinks, you should keep caffeine at bay. Since it has a mild diuretic effect on your system, drinks like coffee should wait until you're feeling much better.
2. DIY a Saline Rinse
At the end of the day, saline is simply a mixture of salt and water. The reason why it can be super beneficial when you have a cold is because this combo has the ability to literally thin out the mucus that is clogging up your nasal passages. Also, if there is anything in your nose that is irritating it (to the point where you are constantly sneezing or feeling like you need to do so), saline can help to rinse that out as well (because there is nothing worse than sneezing or coughing throughout the night, chile). While there are saline nose sprays that you can easily find at your local drug or grocery store, you can also make your own solution by combining distilled water and non-iodized salt together. For step-by-step instructions, Medical News Today has your back. You can check it out here.
3. Also Make Your Own Eucalyptus Oil Rub
Some of us have semi-fond memories of our parents (or grandparents) putting Vicks VapoRub onto our chest when we were congested. While I have nothing against Vicks personally, I prefer going the all-natural essential oils route by combining some eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like sweet almond or coconut. Eucalyptus is dope because it's loaded with antioxidants. Plus, the properties within the eucalyptol that's in it can decrease bodily inflammation, break up mucus and even slow down coughing. So, if you're looking for some Vicks-like relief, give your own eucalyptus rub a shot. The results that it provides just might surprise you.
4. Gargle with Some Baking Soda
Sometimes, when I feel the beginning of a sore throat coming on, I will pour a little bit of hydrogen peroxide down my ears. While the fizzing is triggering as all get out, it does seem to nip the throat discomfort within a day or so. There have been times when I've gargled with peroxide too, although I think that gargling with baking soda is just as, if not more, effective. The belief is that sodium bicarbonate is able to provide an alkaline effect to your system which causes the virus to decrease in its potency. So, before turning in, take a stab at making a mixture that consists of one cup of water, ½ teaspoon of baking soda and (if you wish) a couple of sprinkles of sea salt (which detoxifies). If you gargle this for five minutes at night and again in the morning, at the very least, your throat will feel better. As a bonus, your cold symptoms may start to go away sooner too.
5. Take a Shower Before Turning In
When it comes to the viruses that cause a cold, do you know what they enjoy? They like to play around in environments that consist of low humidity. One way to combat that is to take a nice hot shower. While typically, it's best to shower in warm water (because it doesn't dry out your skin), the more humidity that you can drum up when you're congested, the better. Just make sure that you "seal your skin" as soon as you get out by applying your favorite oil (maybe sweet almond, grapeseed or jojoba) before your towel off; that way, the properties from the oil will "lock the moisture" into your skin so that it stays nice and smooth.
6. Drop the Temp in Your Bedroom
Germs thrive in heat. That's why, if you have a cold, it's best to keep your bedroom at around 65-69 degrees, if you can handle it. Besides, is there anything better than curling up underneath some of your favorite blankets? Absolutely not.
7. Use a Humidifier That Comes with a Diffuser
Remember how I said earlier that viruses loathe low humidity? This is why it's such a good idea to invest in a humidifier (because it creates a mist that increases humidity levels in the room that it's in). Oh, and if you really want to piss those viruses off, get the kind that comes with a diffuser too so that you can reap the benefits of certain essential oils that also work overtime to keep viruses at bay. Some of those include peppermint (it's a decongestant and fever reducer); oregano (it kills germs); cinnamon (it's loaded with antioxidants that help to strengthen your respiratory system); lavender (it lowers your stress levels); sandalwood (it's a natural sedative that helps you to sleep more soundly); tea tree oil (it contains potent antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal properties) and frankincense (it calms coughing and even aids in healing bronchitis).
8. Slightly Prop Up Your Pillow
When it comes to this particular point, think about it — when you have a cold, doesn't it seem like your nose is so much more stuffed up when you're lying down? While it's actually the inflammation of the lining of your nose that is causing the biggest part of the congestion problem, if you prop your head up with an extra pillow and then lie on your side, this also can help to bring you drainage and some much-needed relief.
9. Treat Yourself to a Hot Toddy
While it tends to come with some variations as far as ingredients are concerned, the simplest way to explain a hot toddy is it's a drink that consists of whiskey, honey, herbs, spices and sometimes some lemon. Although the heat of it alone can do wonders when it comes to soothing your throat, believe it or not, the properties in whiskey are able to help to dilate your blood vessels and reduce any congestion you might be experiencing.
Plus, when you add to it things like cloves (which contain anti-inflammatory compounds), ginger (which has medicinal properties to reduce inflammation and help to heal a sore throat) and lemon (which is loaded with antioxidants), it's pretty easy to see how it could be a signature drink, at least one of the nights, while you're trying to get over a cold.
(Some great hot toddyrecipes to try and found here, here and here.)
10. Or Drink Some Chamomile Tea and Honey
If you'd prefer to go the non-alcoholic route, how about a cup of chamomile tea? As far as fighting colds go, it contains properties that help to reduce inflammation, decrease anxiety (so that you can fall and stay asleep faster) and fight cold-related symptoms. If you add some honey to it, the texture of it will help to coat your throat as its properties will aid in suppressing your cough and speeding up the overall healing process. You'll feel less "cold-like" within an hour or so, so that you can get the kind of sleep that you need to get over your cold so much faster. Sweet dreams, sis.
For more inspiration, self-care, and health tips, check out xoNecole's Wellness section here.
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Devale Ellis On Being A Provider, Marriage Growth & Redefining Fatherhood
In this candid episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Devale Ellis, actor, social media personality, and star of Zatima, about modern masculinity, learning to be a better husband, emotional presence in marriage, fatherhood for Black men, and leading by example.
“I Wasn’t Present Emotionally”: Devale Ellis on Marriage Growth
Devale Ellis On Learning He Was a ‘Bad Husband’
Ellis grew up believing that a man should prioritize providing for his family. “I know this may come off as misogynistic, but I feel like it’s my responsibility as a man to pay for everything,” he said, emphasizing the wise guidance passed down by his father. However, five years into his marriage to long-time partner Khadeen Ellis, he realized provision wasn’t just financial.
“I was a bad husband because I wasn’t present emotionally… I wasn’t concerned about what she needed outside of the resources.”
Once he shifted his mindset, his marriage improved. “In me trying to be of service to her, I learned that me being of service created a woman who is now willing to be of service to me.”
On Redefining Masculinity and Fatherhood
For Ellis, “being a man is about being consistent.” As a father of four, he sees parenthood as a chance to reshape the future.
“Children give you another chance at life. I have four different opportunities right now to do my life all over again.”
He also works to uplift young Black men, reinforcing their worth in a world that often undermines them. His values extend to his career—Ellis refuses to play roles that involve domestic violence or sexual assault.
Watch the full episode below:
On Marriage, Family Planning, and Writing His Story
After his wife’s postpartum preeclampsia, Ellis chose a vasectomy over her taking hormonal birth control, further proving his commitment to their partnership. He and Khadeen share their journey in We Over Me, and his next book, Raising Kings: How Fatherhood Saved Me From Myself, is on the way.
Through honesty and growth, Devale Ellis challenges traditional ideas of masculinity, making his story one that resonates deeply with millennial women.
For the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker peels back the layers of masculinity with candid conversations that challenge stereotypes and celebrate vulnerability. Real men. Real stories. Real talk.
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
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6 Tabletop Sex Positions That'll Unlock You & Bae's Most Primal Desires
Something I will never tire of is finding new ways to bring new layers to intimacy. A wall you use as momentum, a bathroom sink to help you keep your balance as he worships you on his knees, a shower that is usually for cleansing but evolves into a sacred ritual of shared intimacy.
My favorite kind of sex is the kind of sex that prioritizes pleasure and connection. So, technically and thankfully, I can say most of my sex life has been quite pleasurable throughout the years. But the memorable encounters for sure take the cake. One such encounter actually took place on a kitchen counter, and with it unleashed inhibitions in ways I never anticipated while unlocking levels to top-tier sex. And that, that involved a kitchen counter.
Why Kitchen Counter Sex Just Hits Different
What is it about having your hips pressed into the edge of a kitchen counter that lets out something so primal in you? The cool-to-the-touch feel of the countertop against exposed skin as you rise to meet him again and again. The urgency in every movement. The playfulness of repurposing an everyday space for something far more erotic. If you’re looking to bring that energy into your own sex life, keep reading for positions and tips to explore.
1. The Bounce House
They don’t call it Bounce House for nothing. In this position, the penetrating partner lies flat on their back on a sturdy table or counter while the receiving partner straddles them, knees bent and facing away. With their hands gripping the edge of the surface for support, the receiving partner slides or bounces at their own pace, owning the rhythm, the motion, and the view.
According to sex therapist Michael Aaron, Ph.D., who spoke with Women’s Health, the receiving partner placing their legs between their partner’s creates a tighter sensation, while staying fully astride allows for more bounce and range of motion. Either way, this one puts the receiver in full control, and you know we love a good woman on top position. Pleasure and power? Say less.
2. The Bicycle
Well, you know what they say about riding a bike. In the case of this table top position, it's the receiving partner who is the rider...but not in the way you think. While lying back on a sturdy surface or a table, the receiver will bring their knees toward their chest, bending them as if in a cycling motion. The penetrating partner stands at the edge of the surface, grabbing the receiver's ankles, and guides themselves inside, slowly so as to savor the moment. This angle puts everything on display for the penetrating partner while allowing for deep, connected thrusting for the receiver.
To take things up a notch , the receiving partner can touch themselves or flex their thighs to control the depth or the rhythm. Because, who says only one person gets to have control?
3. Counter Offer
How could we be at the table and not use it to eat? Enter: Counter Offer. In this oral-focused sex position, the receiving partner perches on the edge of a counter or table, lying back or sitting upright with legs parted or bent for comfort. The penetrating partner kneels or stands between their thighs, depending on the setup and the kind of attention they’re ready to give. No doubt, this one’s all about access and intention.
With the vulva front and center, the height makes it easier to maintain eye contact, use hands freely for things like breast play or incorporating toys, and take their time with every moan-inducing taste. And that’s on five, six, seven, ATE.
4. Standing Doggy
Standing Doggy is what happens when a classic like doggy style gets an upgrade. Instead of being on all fours on a bed, the receiving partner bends over a hard surface like a table or counter, keeping their hips aligned at its edge. The penetrating partner stands behind and enters from the back, using the angle to go deeper and create a strong, steady rhythm. This one offers maximum control and visual appeal, especially if the penetrating partner reaches around for a little extra clitoral stimulation throughout thrusting.
This angle can get intense quickly, so bonus points if the receiving partner engages their pelvic floor muscles or shifts their weight to adjust how the pressure hits, especially if your goal is to hit that G-spot sweet spot.
5. Top Shelf
Men's Healthcalls this one "Yourself on the Shelf," but we like to call it "Top Shelf" because it's giving full view, full grip, and climax potential that's hard to top. The receiving partner sits on the edge of a sturdy table or counter while the penetrating partner stands in front of them and slowly slides in, thrusting while keeping them in position. From there, legs can wrap around their waist, arms can encircle their back, and the closeness at peak ecstasy? Chef's kiss.
If you have the core strength, add lifting to the menu for the final strokes leading to orgasm. Otherwise, allow the surface to the heavy lifting and enjoy the pleasure.
6. The Thumper
What better way to remind yourself that you're both the snack and the entrée than with a little tableside service courtesy of The Thumper? This position has the receiving partner kneeling on a sturdy table or counter (keyword: sturdy), hands gripping the edge or braced in front for support. The penetrating partner can then either kneel behind them (if there's room for two), or stay anchored on the ground with both feet planted on the floor (similar to the previously mentioned Standing Doggy). It all depends on the mood.
Kneeling on the table offers just the right amount of leverage for deep, steady strokes. The receiving partner can play with tightness by either keeping their knees closer together for a snug grip, or open their knees wider to invite more access, depth, and stretch. The Thumper is versatile that way, and the most important thing? The receiver gets to be the main course. Yum.
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