As the nights grow longer and temperatures start to drop, it’s easy to fall into the age-old trap of feeling a little dread about winter approaching. While winter brings its own magical charm, it can bring a set of challenges for our overall health and well-being. If you sometimes feel the ‘winter is coming’ fear, we have some good news – it doesn’t have to be a scary time.
With that in mind, here are some of our favourite tried and tested tips to staying healthy during the winter months. Whether you’re stepping out for a brisk jog or a winter stroll, be sure to dress to keep warm!
Look After Your Skin & Wear SPF Daily
Cold air during the winter months can strip the skin of its natural moisture. When it comes to skincare, Try using a rich moisturiser to lock in any hydration and combat dryness. When moisturising it’s very easy to overlook areas that may need more attention. Areas like your elbows, knees and hands are all common areas for dry skin. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free moisturiser will definitely help those with more sensitive skin.
In Ireland, despite the often overcast and chilly winter days, keeping up with your suncare remains crucial. The harmful UV rays of the sun can penetrate cloud cover and reflect off surfaces, like snow or wet pavements, intensifying their effect on the skin. Even in colder months, consistent UV exposure can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. By wearing SPF during winter, you’re providing your skin with a protective barrier, ensuring its health and longevity, irrespective of the deceptive gray skies.
Don’t Forget Your Hair
Your face isn’t the only thing that needs extra attention this winter. Cold air and indoor heating are the biggest culprits when it comes to havoc on your hair. Combat dryness with haircare including a hydrating conditioner, to keep your hair smooth and hydrated.
Stock Up With Vitamins & Supplements
As winter sets in, the body’s immunity often takes a hit due to shorter days, reduced sunlight exposure, and cold temperatures, making it all the more essential to maintain an optimal intake of vitamins. Vitamins, such as vitamin C, D, and E, play a pivotal role in bolstering the immune system, improving mood, and optimizing overall health.
For instance, with reduced sunlight in winter, our bodies might produce less vitamin D, which is vital for bone health and immunity. By ensuring a consistent intake of essential vitamins during the colder months, we equip our bodies to fend off illnesses, combat seasonal mood shifts, and maintain robust health throughout the season.
Probiotics are important too – they’re great for gut health, but there’s also evidence they support the immune system. Magnesium is great for relaxing your muscles and mind, and promoting better sleep – but it’s also vital in producing serotonin, the brain’s happy hormone, so it can be good for your mood and mental health.
Stay Active
Of course, this is great advice all year round. But in Winter, we can easily lose the motivation to exercise, whether that’s because we feel like it’s too wet or cold to go out walking and running, or simply because it feels a little less urgent to take care of a body that’s hidden away under winter woollies. But moving our bodies and using our energy is about a lot more than a ‘summer beach body’; it’s about our joints, our circulation, our mental health. A fitness tracker could do the trick to motivate you.
Comfort-Eat, But Cleverly
Choose healthy and wholefood carbs when you can, and try to stay away from excessive sugar. A big bowl of delicious wholewheat pasta will comfort you just the same as a deep fried take-away, and you’ll feel a lot better after it too! It’s not about denying yourself, but rather about seeing where you can make yourself feel good not just in the moment, but after the moment too! Be sure to take off your tummy during the festive period to prevent bloating.
During the festive period, overindulgence can be very tempting and frequent. We recently wrote an article on how to beat bloating during the festive period.
Get Your Yearly Flu Vaccination
One of the most effective measures to prevent seasonal illnesses, particularly the flu, is to get vaccinated. McCauleys Pharmacy offers convenient and professional flu vaccination services, ensuring you and your loved ones are protected through the colder months. By taking this simple step, you’re not only looking after your own well-being but also contributing to a healthier community.
In the heart of winter, prioritising our wellness can make all the difference in how we navigate the season. From the nutrients we intake to the habits we cultivate, every choice contributes to our overall vitality. Stay warm, stay nourished, and embrace the frosty beauty that winter brings!
For those extra chilly nights, hot water bottles are a game-changer for snug warmth.
