Winter Wellness: 5 Tips for Staying Healthy This Season

1. Eat for Immunity

Good nutrition is one of the keys to a healthy life. From breakfast to dinner, make smart food choices by choosing colorful ingredients and striving to include foods from each food group in as many meals as possible. To prevent illness this season, it’s also smart to consume immune-supporting foods such as citrus fruits, mushrooms, garlic and foods containing probiotics and prebiotics like yogurt and whole grains.

2. Get Outdoors & Stay Active

Spending more time outdoors is an easy way to maintain or improve physical and mental health, as it reduces the risk of chronic diseases, improves sleep and alleviates stress. Increase outdoor time by going on a daily walk, planning at least one outdoor activity every weekend and eating meals outside when the weather permits. What’s better? Getting outside when the sun is out! Sun exposure is incredibly beneficial to mental health and provides the body with vitamin D, which it may be lacking in the winter.

3. Rest & Renew

Sleep is vital to functioning at your best; however, more than half of the country’s adult population has trouble getting a good night’s sleep. Implement techniques like waking up and going to bed at the same time daily, ensuring your room is dark and quiet, avoiding caffeine consumption late in the day or practicing bedtime rituals like meditating or stretching.

4. Digital Detox

Studies show that the mere presence of a device may generate diminished attention and lower task performance. Boost your productivity and mental well-being by taking small steps to disconnect. Aim to check your phone only five times throughout the day, resist checking or posting to social media, or turn off your devices for an entire day of tech-free tranquility.

5. Quality Time with Loved Ones

With all the hustle and bustle of the season, it can be easy to forget to nurture our relationships, which also significantly impact our overall health. Quality time spent with loved ones instills a sense of belonging, builds self-esteem and creates priceless memories that will last a lifetime. Whether playing games, sharing stories or joining a video call, connect with the ones you love this season to stay healthy and happy.