Healthline Wellness Wire

In a Nutshell

I’ve been fending off whatever illness has been going around since before the holiday. It’s going to hit me soon, I just know it. And when it finally happens, I’m going to be a WRECK.

Every time I get sick, I transform into a needy, whiny goblin. I can’t speak for all men, but for me, the memes are correct: I’m utterly helpless as soon as I feel even slightly unwell, which really clashes with my natural tendency to always be somewhat productive.

Since I know I won’t be able to just do “nothing” even when I’m under the weather, I’m turning to you for inspiration: What should I do to occupy myself until I feel better again?

First up, some stories to check out:

•	5 cancer screenings that should be on your radar right now

•	The top medical breakthroughs in weight loss

•	Symptoms of bladder cancer women should look out for

Keep your fingers crossed for my health!
Kenny Thapoung
Managing Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Kenny Thapoung
October 17, 2026 • 3 min read

what’s got us buzzing

How should I entertain myself when I’m sick?

Let me start off by saying that if you’re really sick, REST! Muscle aches, coughing, fever, and chills are all telltale signs that you’re in some serious need of downtime. But what about when you’re in that weird middleground phase where you’re getting close to 100% but not quite well enough to be outside or around other people?

Here lies my problem: My high functioning anxiety pushes me to be active. I can’t just sit still — which is why I’m not much of a TV show binger or the type of person who can spend hours reading a book. I need to feel like I’m making the most of my day somehow even if I’m stuck at home.

In the past, I’ve kept myself busy with a few mundane tasks: cleaning my fridge, meal prepping, organizing my food storage containers. I also have a candle making kit that’s been fun to experiment with.

However, I would love fresh ideas for sick-but-not-totally-immobile day activities. No pressure, but the sooner you can share your thoughts at wellnesswire@healthline.com, the better! I need to stock up before my immune system eventually betrays me. 🙃

Are You Too Sick to Work Out?

Great finds

It’s lit!

DINGPAI Complete Candle Making Kit

Making candles is one of my new favorite sick day activities. From the type of wax you use to the ratio of mixing different essential oils, it’ll take you several batches to really nail down the process — and your ideal formula. But once you find your perfect recipe, I promise you’ll prefer your homemade versions over the ones in TJ Maxx!

Buy now

Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health.

health stories you need

What we’re reading next

🍽️ A meal plan for menopause symptoms. The foods you eat play a significant role in how you feel during this phase of life.

🎄 Weight gain during the holidays may stick with you. Plus, why the holiday season can increase overeating.

🏃 Ready to live your strongest, healthiest life yet? These five tips can help set you on the right path.

🤨 What to know about slipping rib syndrome. It can be tricky to diagnose.

Happy hump day! Let’s hope I can ward off whatever’s coming my way long enough to enjoy the weekend.

Until next time,

Take care of yourself, and we’ll see
you again soon!

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lots of ibuprofen.

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Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline’s or Optum Now’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health.