Support your wellbeing this winter

How to stay well this winter

Winter is an incredibly tough time for the many people caring for their vulnerable friends and family members. As the seasons start to shift and winter approaches it’s important that we prepare our body, mind, and spirit now, to build our resilience and strengthen our immune system for the months to come.

Wellbeing Coach and Nutritional Therapist, Sue Judge shares steps that family and friend carers can take to help you and your loved ones stay well this winter.

Nourish your body

Looking after yourself starts with the basics: what you put into your body. Winter can be a demanding season, especially when you’re caring for someone else, so taking time to nourish yourself with good food and drink is an act of care in itself.

Mug of lemon on a board with flowers and cinnamon

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Eight glasses of water throughout the day is ideal, herbal teas are a great way to get your water intake in over the colder months.

Mix of food and spices

Eat well

Stop and enjoy a diverse range of fruits, veggies, protein and healthy fats. Taking time to relax whilst you eat aids digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

Jar of fermented food with the lid open

Improve gut health

Eating fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi support good gut bacteria, which can help our immune system.

Group of adults doing lunges exercise outside on the grass

Exercise regularly

Whether it’s a walk or your favourite dance class, try to move your body at least 3 times a week for 45 minutes.

Women in bed asleep with a sleep mask on

Prioritise yourself

Make time for yourself and try to reduce your stress levels. Meditation, yoga, or a breathing exercise before getting your 8 hours of sleep can help.

Protect against flu this winter

Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe this winter with the flu vaccination.

As the main carer for an older or disabled person, you are entitled to a free vaccination. Ask your pharmacist or GP for more information.

Find out about Flu jabs on the NHS website

Boost your spirit

Finally, what brings you joy? Singing, swimming, being in nature? Whatever it may be, bring more of this into your life. Happiness and smiling can trigger chemical reactions in our body which aid our immune system and overall health.