tilted shot of female legs and hands holding a cup of coffe and tucked in blenket
Photo: Thought Catalog

The long-lasting winter months can be tough on your skin, hair, and mental and physical wellbeing. There is something unbearable about the combination of cold weather and shorter days, and it takes its toll on our fragile health. The cold season can be particularly challenging for women. We tend to be sensitive to freezing temperatures and are therefore more prone to low mood and depression. But it doesn't have to be all bad – let’s go through some essential winter wellbeing tips which can help get you through to spring and summer.

  • Get plenty of vitamin D


It is a well-known fact that Vitamin D is crucial for our general health. However, in the winter months, it can be problematic to get enough of it. The sun is hardly ever out (especially in some climates), and our skin is generally buried under layers of warm clothing. To battle Vitamin D deficiency, incorporate vitamin D-rich foods, including certain dairy products, tuna fish, and sardines. Some cereal mixes, plant milk, and orange juices can be additionally fortified with Vitamin D. You may also want to consider taking a vitamin D supplement or even a special women’s health supplement to help you through the winter.

  • Stay active


It can be tempting to stay indoors and just curl up with a warm blanket during wintertime. No argument here as it can be a lot of fun and healing pastime on its own! Still, staying active is essential for staying on top of both our physical and mental health. That doesn't mean you must go full hardcore mode during your workout sessions. Sometimes all you need is a casual short walk or slow jogging with your doggie. Plus, it is an excellent opportunity to boost your Vitamin D levels again. Mild indoor exercises, like yoga or stretches, can be beneficial as well.

  • Get enough sleep


A healthy and profound sleep habit is a secret to overall wellbeing. Nevertheless, women and men struggle to get enough of it during wintertime. The shorter days and longer nights can disrupt the natural circadian rhythm. Don't even get me started on the whole daylight-saving time practice! Recent research has even shown that we may need more sleep during the winter to stay put. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and at the right temperature.

close-up of emale's hands applying beauty oil on to the skin
Photo: Chelsea Shapouri

  • Hydration and a balanced diet


A healthy, well-balanced diet is important at any time of the year. Yet, it can be most crucial during the wintertime, for staying healthy and boosting immunity when you need it the most. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, making sure that you stick away from excessively processed food. A good variety of whole foods will provide essential vitamins and minerals that can help to keep you healthy, helping to stave away any unwanted illnesses.

It can be easy to forget to drink enough water during the colder months, as we may not feel as thirsty as in the summer. As a result, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining a healthy body – try to aim for a minimum of eight glasses of water each day, and incorporate broths, herbal teas, and soups into your diet for extra hydration.

  • Practice self-care


The cold winter season can leave you feeling depressive and blue. This is when self-care activities like meditation, relaxing baths, or spending time with friends come in to nourish your body and soul. You can take a step further and plan a women's wellness retreat to help reconnect to yourself and share your experiences with other women.

Let's Wrap Up!

Yes, wintertime can be challenging for us all, but still, it is a time of magic and love! By following some of these winter wellbeing tips, you’ll hopefully feel better in multiple ways during the winter season. Remember to prioritize self-care, eat a healthy diet, stay active, and get rest to stay on top of things. If you're feeling especially down, either physically or emotionally, don’t be hesitant to reach out for help – you’re not alone, and there are plenty of people who will be able to give you a hand. I wish you all the best!

Lots of love,
Liz