Published 05 Aug 2024
Winter brings with it icy mornings, biting winds and reduced sunlight, coupled with a rise in respiratory illnesses as we crowd indoors. All of this can make it less appealing to get out and about and keep on top of our physical and mental health, so we asked Healthier Together readers for their top tips to stay active and help beat the winter blues. Here it is – a winter wellbeing guide brought to you by our members.
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Value every season
“If we don’t experience winter, how can we enjoy the beauty of spring?”
Would a balmy summer evening, the smell of spring flowers or the bright delight of autumn leaves feel as special if we hadn’t endured the winter months? As Dolly Parton famously said, “If you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put yourself in the rain”.
Practising gratitude and taking time to notice the small things that make winter, winter, can help us to celebrate the beauty of this season. Here’s some to get you started: fewer allergies, less mosquitoes (and snakes), the footy season in full swing and less chance of sunburn!
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Embrace winter comforts
“My favourite thing is to make a pie. There’s nothing better than baking at home, slippers on, with a hot pie fresh out of the oven.”
Whether its hearty stews and soups, long baths or enjoying a warm cup of tea by a crackling fire, we all have our own winter comforts we turn to as the mercury falls. These things don’t quite have the same effect, or frankly, may lead to overheating, if we tried them in summer. Movie marathons, comfy slippers, knitting and indoors activities such as puzzles, and crafting were just a few fabulous things mentioned by our members.
Looking for some cooking inspiration? We’ve compiled a list of healthy winter recipes.
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Layer up
“Keep active and dress for the weather and remember there’s no bad weather just bad clothing.”
Despite the ongoing love of black puffer jackets, Australians are notorious – by international standards – for dressing inappropriately in cooler weather. Even our houses aren’t doing a great job of temperature regulation! Swap the stubbies and thongs, or activewear, this winter for warm layers that will help to trap heat. Add insultation with wool or wool-blended jumpers and a down jacket. Get out your gloves, slap on a scarf and beanie and you’ll be set to face the outdoors. Choosing flannelette pyjamas, bed socks and wool slippers will also help to keep you cosy at night.
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Stay active
“Nothing is better than a vigorous walk along the river, then snuggle into a comfortable armchair with a pot of tea and a mystery book.”
Physical activity helps us to maintain our optimal health and wellbeing year-round, but exercising in winter is especially important for boosting immunity, improving sleep and enhancing our mood. A daily walk, jog or ride helps to warm you up, get the blood pumping and improve circulation while exposing you to fresh air and that elusive sunlight that will help your body produce vitamin D.
Not sure where to begin when it comes to exercise? Listen to our podcast with fitness expert Bree Filippone for some tips for getting started. -
Maintain social connections
“Remember that it’s okay to not be okay. Not all superheroes wear capes. Some are friends who ask if you want to go for a walk.”
Social activity is just as important as physical for our overall wellbeing and can make a huge difference in winter when we have fewer formal occasions to come together. Looking to get the gang back together? Start a games night or dinner club with friends to come together regularly and spark some healthy competition or share a wintry feast.
Remember to be mindful of your own mental health and those around you and check in with a phone call or a knock on a friend’s door from time to time. If you’re feeling lonely, a chat at the supermarket or a walk around the neighbourhood to smile and say hello to those you meet along the way are great ways to get out of the house and improve social connectedness.
Group sports not your thing? Try a community knitting group, volunteering at a soup kitchen or, if you’re really up for embracing winter, ice bathing.
Find some more great ideas: Making friends at any age.
