When the cold wind doth blow, we might need to take a little extra care of our minds and bodies to combat illness and fatigue. Thankfully, there are lots of ways keep your winter wellness on track. Here are some everyday tips to stay healthy in the winter season.
Take a leaf out of nature’s book and wind things down. There’s no need to rush, take your time over tasks. Get more rest. Spending an extra 30 minutes to 2.5 hours in bed can aid memory and energy levels and help repair body tissue and functions.
Boost your immune system with a combination of wholegrains, plant proteins such as peas and beans and leafy greens. You can use a variety of vegetables to make nourishing soups and stews and start the day with a bowl of porridge and fruit.
Keep a supply of frozen and tinned goods in case of bad weather, they’re still full of goodness but check labels for added sugar or salt.
Increase your water intake as central heating can cause dehydration. Stock up on vitamins B, C and D, plus Iron, Magnesium, Zinc and Omega 3.
Grow your own micro herbs and mushrooms to supplement your diet. Improve your indoor air quality with purifying plants such as aloe vera, Peace lilies and Boston ferns.
It’s better to have too much clothing on than too little. Choose wool for socks, gloves, cardigans and jumpers and for bedding such as quilts and throws.
Check doors and windows close properly and fit wall and roof insulation to keep the heat in. If you’re wondering what temperature your house should be in the winter, advice is to keep your home at a steady 18 degrees.
It’s a good idea to get your boiler serviced to make sure you stay cosy through the colder months. If you’re not using a room, turn off the radiators and keep the door shut. Use rugs on wooden floors and close curtains in the evenings.
Make sure your jabs are up to date. Book in for flu vaccination in the autumn to give yourself maximum protection against infection. Seasonal Covid boosters are only available to people at risk who have weakened immune systems or specific conditions. Try to avoid closed in places where germs can easily be spread from person to person.
Lack of light can have a negative impact called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Combat the winter blues with a mood lamp or body clock that simulates the gradual increase of light we receive from sunrise to sunset.
It’s good to have some company, so check the Warm Welcome Campaign for community warm hubs and social centres in your area.
Michelle Cooper, Director of Health Insurance advises: "Looking after your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. Some health insurance policies may offer cover for private counselling, therapy, or psychiatric support, helping you to access the right care if you need it. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, or another mental health concern, seeking professional support can be an important step towards feeling better."
Walking for 30 minutes daily helps to increase your cardiovascular fitness and emotional wellbeing. Regular exercise can also improve your circulation, oxygen levels and heart health. Stay in good physical condition with a leisurely stroll around the park or pop to the shops.
Be sure to take care on roads when there’s snow about and wear boots with grips on the sole. If it’s really icy outside, join an online group for a gentle workout like chair yoga instead.
Book yourself in for an at home spa day. Invest in some soothing oils for the bath or a warming rub for joint pain. Stay snug in a fleece dressing gowns and downy slippers.
Pop a heated mat or hot water bottle in your bed an hour before you go to sleep. Keep on with arts and crafts you enjoy such as journalling, reading or painting. You could even host a crafty tea party with friends and knit some leg warmers to keep the cold out.
Saga Health Insurance is a unique product designed by us specifically for our customers and it is only available through us. Together with our underwriter, Bupa Insurance Limited, we are committed to providing high levels of quality, service and choice. That's why we offer a range of policies that can be tailored to suit your needs and budget.
Health insurance for people over 50 that provides a quicker route to diagnosis and planned medical treatment in a private hospital.
Get quicker diagnosis and treatment with nationwide private hospital options. There’s no upper age limit and you won’t need a medical.
There's plenty to explore and learn about our health insurance cover.
Quicker diagnosis and treatment, and nationwide private hospital options – it’s no wonder customers have chosen us to take care of their health for over 30 years. There’s no upper age limit and you won’t need a medical.
How can we rejuvenate our mental health and wellbeing as we get older? Our research suggests hobbies – and the natural world – hold the key.
It’s your first line of defence against ill health, so how can you keep it in tip-top shape?
We explain the basics about getting health insurance so you could go private for medical treatment.
It's easy to switch your health insurance to Saga or set up a policy after a company scheme has ended.
We offer a choice of four health plans, each providing cover for diagnosis and prompt hospital treatment.
The Saga GP Service offers unlimited access to telephone GP appointments – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
If you work for yourself, it really pays to stay healthy. See how health insurance could give you a speedy route to recovery if illness gets in the way of business.
Benefits of health insurance cover for joint replacement surgery.
Make the most of the summer of sport with some healthy walking challenges.
Looking for private health insurance? Read out handy guide to choosing a healthcare provider.
From Norwich to Glasgow, Saga uncovers the UK’s most cycle-friendly cities, and the perspectives of different generations on cycling, all the way from Gen Z to those over 50 years old.
Our glossary of health insurance terms explains the most commonly used words and phrases to make things as clear as possible.
Tailor and improve your Saga Health Insurance policy so you can have the cover that's right for you.