3 Tips to Make This Winter Your Healthiest One Yet

If you're in disbelief that winter is right around the corner, you're not alone. Before you know it, temperatures will be dropping and cold and flu season will be knocking at your door. This can be intimidating, but it's important to not let it get the best of you. Wondering what you can do instead? Focus on practicing healthy habits and building up your immunity so you're ready when winter makes its grand entrance. Read on for three tips for making this your healthiest winter yet.

1. Stay Active and Engaged

Even though winter might make you want to get cozy on the couch, it's necessary for you to get your exercise. However it's important to note that working out too intensely can actually weaken your immunity, so don't overdo it. Bundling up and meeting a friend for a walk, streaming an online workout from the comfort of your living room or purchasing (and using) a gym membership are all simple and effective ways to make sure you're stay active and strengthening your body.

If you're finding it hard to self-motivate or build momentum, remember that there are options to give you the get-up-and-go your body is craving. If you've ever researched different supplement programs made specifically to boost energy while also providing nourishment, you might have wondered "what is thrive?". It's important that you do your research on whatever product you're considering. Looking at the big picture of a supplement will be helpful in determining if it's right for you.

2. Supercharge Your Diet With the Right Foods

Did you know that the more colorful your plate is, the healthier the food? Keep in mind this means colors from vegetables and fruits, not technicolor frosting from your niece's birthday cupcakes.

Starting now, becoming more aware of your overall diet and the foods you eat will have a big impact on your health over the next five or so months. Try adding superfood smoothies to your breakfast rotation, or packing a delicious salad featuring leafy greens such as spinach and Swiss chard for your work lunches. Get creative in the kitchen by making different soups with immunity-boosting ingredients such as chicken or bone broth, nutrient-rich beans, or antioxidant and vitamin C-rich sweet potatoes or orange peppers. Go heavy on the fresh garlic too, as it's packed with immune-boosting powers of its own.

Don't forget to keep your gut health in check. A healthy gut means a healthy body, both mentally and physically. You can get all of the probiotic benefits your body craves from making natural, low-sugar yogurt or a glass of kombucha a part of each day.

3. Get Enough Sleep and Make Sure It's Good

Getting quality sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. Since sleep is how your body repairs itself, ensuring you're getting enough is absolutely necessary. Establishing a consistent nighttime routine will get your body on a schedule, and creating a healthy environment will ensure you reap the benefits from those seven to eight hours. Some tried-and-true tips, such as keeping your room on the cooler side and utilizing white noise will keep you comfortable and relaxed. Don't forget about the power of a humidifier to keep your skin and nasal passages moisturized (this is especially helpful when you're congested!).

If you do find yourself under the weather, remember that sleep is the best medicine.

There's no guarantee that you won't get sick, but taking care of yourself will give you a good shot at staying healthy this winter.