Winter - the season of sniffles, coughs, and unwelcome viruses. How does one stay healthy without letting illness knock you down? As a surgeon, I understand the importance of staying healthy, not just for my work and my patients, but also to stay connected with my family, friends, and all the things that bring me joy.
We all know the basics: wash your hands, eat well, and get plenty of rest. But it's often easier said than done in our busy lives and the cold weather, which is why I'm sharing these creative and practical tips to stay healthy in winter and throughout the season. These habits go beyond the usual advice and have become part of my daily routine, not just for surviving winter but thriving in it.
Tips to Stay Healthy in Winter
Clean Up Your Air
We spend more time indoors during winter, and we often overlook how the air we breathe inside plays a huge role in our health. The air you breathe inside can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside in the winter, which makes cleaning up your air important to staying healthy.
You can do this by investing in air purifiers and keeping plants around the house. Plants help filter out allergens and toxins. In our home, we use air purifiers and have a spider plant. Plus, don't forget to change your HVAC filters regularly. I set a reminder on my calendar to ensure I don't miss it. Simple adjustments like this can significantly impact staying healthy in winter.
Spider Plant at my home.
Go Outside
Go outside in winter? Yes, even when it's cold! Don't underestimate the power of light and nature, even in winter. There is something so refreshing about the brisk winter air on your face. I try stepping outside daily, even if only for a few minutes. At work, I grab moments between cases to step out for fresh air. My husband and I often take quick walks together right after I get home from work, which clears my mind and energizes me for the rest of the evening.
Declutter Your Space
They say a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind, which is why it's important to keep your space as clutter-free as possible. We recently moved and did a big decluttering, and it was transformative. Minimizing our belongings has made it so much easier to keep things clean and organized, which is especially important during cold and flu season.
A clean, calm space also helps reduce stress, which is key for maintaining a strong immune system. If you're feeling overwhelmed, start small - maybe tackle one drawer or a corner of a room. It can be a game-changer. I'm a very organized person, and the things that help me stay that way include making my bed in the morning, putting things away right away, and using the cold winter days to declutter, organize, and donate.
Shift Your Mindset
I've learned to listen to my body when I start feeling run down. Instead of worrying about getting sick, I ask myself, "What do I need right now?" Maybe it's more rest, better food, or simply to slow down.
I also changed how I talk to myself. Instead of thinking, "I'm getting sick," I tell myself, "My body is telling me it needs something, and now's the time to build it back up." This shift helps me take proactive steps rather than spiraling into stress or fear.
Recharge Your Body and Mind
One of my favorite tips for staying healthy in winter is spending time in my sauna. It's not just relaxing; it helps boost circulation, support detoxification, and promote overall well-being. The warmth helps my muscles recover, reduces stress, and gives me a much-needed pause during the colder months.
There are many benefits to a sauna.
If you don't have a sauna at home, you can still enjoy similar benefits with a hot Epsom salt bath or a steam shower to relax muscles and improve circulation. Many gyms, spas, and wellness centers also offer saunas as part of their memberships or services, making heat therapy more accessible. Read more about the benefits of sauna use here.
But staying well in winter isn't just about physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. The winter months can often feel isolating, so I make it a point to stay connected. I call friends and family during my drives, and I say yes to invitations, even when it's tempting to hibernate. These small moments of connection help lift my spirits through the winter months.
Spice Up Your Immune System
Spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon are powerful tricks for your immune system. Turmeric contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound, while ginger helps combat oxidative stress and supports respiratory health. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants that can help fight infections.
I incorporate these spices into teas, soups, and smoothies as an easy, natural way to support my immune system daily. Small, consistent choices like this can make a big difference in keeping your body strong and resilient.
Staying Healthy
Staying healthy in winter isn't just about avoiding sickness; it's also about creating habits that help you thrive. Improving your indoor air quality, getting outside, decluttering your space, and shifting your mindset are transformative ways to help strengthen your body and mind throughout the winter season.
I hope these tips for staying healthy in winter will help you stay well and energized and enjoy all the good that can come during winter.
Providing you care beyond the visit ~
Dr. Cindy Geocaris