Why Is Winter a Challenge for Our Immune Health?
Hi, it's Fi, founder of The Age Hack!
As temperatures drop and we spend more time indoors, it’s natural for our bodies to feel more challenged. Winter brings with it an increased exposure to seasonal bugs and changes to our daily routines. The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can help support your body to feel balanced and resilient all winter long.
Below, I’m sharing the key habits I personally focus on to nurture my wellbeing during the colder months. Feel free to adapt these to your own lifestyle.
1. Stay Hydrated
Hydration might sound basic, but it’s a powerful way to support your health year-round, especially in winter, when we often forget to drink enough water. I’ve noticed that when I start to feel under the weather, it usually lines up with having had less water in the days prior.
Water supports countless normal body processes, from energy production to skin health. I aim for around 3 litres per day (I’m quite tall, so this works for me), but your needs might differ. The simplest way to stay on track? Keep a bottle nearby and sip regularly throughout the day.
2. Prioritise Hand Hygiene
We learned a lot during the pandemic about how important handwashing is, and that lesson holds strong in winter. Whether you’re at the supermarket, the gym, or simply out in busy spaces, giving your hands an extra wash can help maintain a cleaner environment.
A good rule of thumb is the 20-second wash: warm water, soap, and a thorough scrub, especially before eating or touching your face. It’s a simple ritual that supports your day-to-day wellness.
3. Thoughtful Supplement Choices
Some people choose to include natural supplements in their winter routine to support their overall wellbeing. In my personal routine, I use NMN and NAC, alongside a nasal spray such as Vicks First Defence*, and occasionally essential oils like oregano or On Guard from dōTERRA.
Final Thoughts
Winter is a perfect moment to pause, reconnect with your body, and nurture healthy habits that help you flow through the season with more ease. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to winter wellness, tune into your own needs, adjust where you can, and lean on professional advice if you’re unsure about new supplements or products.
Here’s to you thriving, not just surviving this winter!
