Ways to stay well in winter

How to keep healthy in winter

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.

Go slow

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.

Winter kitchen warmers

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.

Bring the garden indoors

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.

Add more layers

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.

Keep the chill off at home

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.

How not to get sick this winter

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.

How does winter affect mental health?

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.

How can you stay mentally healthy in winter?

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."

Get out and about

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.

Winter self-care

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.