This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, Anne Louise Magazine may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Anne Louise Magazine earns from qualifying purchases.
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it's easy to feel sluggish and overwhelmed.
Winter can take a toll on body and mind, but a little self-care goes a long way. Here are some simple, practical ways to stay energised, look after your health and keep seasonal stress in check, so you can do more than just get through until spring.
Support your immune system
Colds and flu do the rounds every winter, so give your body what it needs.
- Eat the rainbowCitrus fruits, leafy greens, garlic and ginger are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and they make winter cooking brighter too.
- Stay hydratedIt's tempting to live on hot drinks, but keep sipping water through the day as well.
- Think about vitamin DThe NHS advises everyone in the UK to consider a daily vitamin D supplement in autumn and winter, when there isn't enough sunlight for our bodies to make it.
Our pick
Vitamin D3 4000 IU & Vitamin K2 MK7 100μg, 1 Year Supply
A year's supply in one pot, combining vitamin D3 with K2. It's a high-strength dose, so check with your GP or pharmacist first if you're unsure what's right for you.
Around £8–£12
Shop on AmazonStay active, even indoors
Cold mornings make outdoor workouts a hard sell, but moving every day is good for body and mood.
- Try home workoutsYoga, Pilates and bodyweight exercises keep you moving, and there are countless free workout videos online to follow.
- Embrace winter walksWrap up and head out for a brisk walk. Fresh air and daylight can do wonders for your mood.
- Make it funDancing round the kitchen, playing with the kids, even clearing the drive after snow: it all counts.
Our pick
Boogie Bounce Elite Rebounder Bundle
A mini trampoline workout is low-impact, surprisingly hard work and genuinely fun, which is exactly what you need on a dark January evening.
RRP £149
Shop at Boogie BounceManage seasonal stress
The festive rush, darker days and busy diaries all add up. Make time for yourself.
- Set boundariesYou don't have to say yes to every event or commitment. Prioritise what truly matters to you.
- Practise mindfulnessA few minutes a day of meditation or deep breathing can help. Apps like Calm or Headspace are a good place to start.
- Create a cosy evening ritualUnwind with a good book, a hot bath or your favourite herbal tea. Soothing evenings can make a real difference to your sleep and mood.
Our pick
Pukka Calm Organic Herbal Tea Collection Gift Set
A box of Pukka's organic calming blends, ideal for that evening wind-down, and a lovely little gift too.
Around £9
Shop on Amazon
Look after your mental health
Less daylight can leave many of us feeling low and lacking energy.
- Get outside dailyEven a short walk in daylight, especially in the morning, can help lift your mood and energy.
- Consider a light therapy lampThese bright lamps imitate daylight, and many people find them helpful on dark winter mornings.
- Stay connectedReach out to the people you love, whether that's a phone call, a video chat or a cosy get-together at home.
If low mood is lasting for weeks or affecting daily life, please talk to your GP. Seasonal affective disorder is common and treatable.
Our pick
Beurer TL35 Daylight Lamp
A slim, simple daylight lamp that sits on a desk or kitchen counter, so you can use it while you have breakfast or start work.
Around £50
Shop on AmazonNourish yourself with self-care
Self-care isn't just bubble baths. It's whatever helps you feel your best.
- Focus on sleepAim for seven to eight hours a night, stick to a regular bedtime, and put screens away before bed.
- Pamper your skinCold air outside and central heating inside are harsh on skin. Keep it moisturised, and consider a humidifier to combat dry air.
- Treat yourselfSmall comforts count: a warm blanket, your favourite music, a homemade treat.
Our pick
Diffuserlove Ceramic Diffuser
A pretty ceramic diffuser that fills the room with your favourite essential oil, an easy way to make any evening feel calmer.
Around £32.99
Shop on AmazonWinter doesn't have to drain your energy. Start small, be kind to yourself, and remember that taking care of yourself is the first step to thriving in any season.
Prices are typical UK retail prices at the time of writing and may change, so please check the current price before buying. This article is for general information and isn't medical advice.
How are you looking after yourself this winter? Tell us on Instagram and tag #annelouisemag.
