10 Winter Wellness Tips to Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

Do you ever notice how stressful the holiday season can be? The family gatherings, cooking, cleaning, and decorating can really take a toll on your body and mental health.

On top of this, the colder months bring their own beauty challenges: dry skin, chapped lips, and thinning hair. How can you stay picture-ready when dealing with all of this?

Here, we share ten wellness tips to help you handle stress and combat the harsh winter weather. Just because it’s cold and you’re busy doesn’t mean you have to stop caring for yourself.

1. Start an Indoor Physical Activity

One of the best things about spring and summer is that you can be active outside whenever you like. The weather is nice, and sometimes it’s just right to enjoy the outdoors. You might even walk to the store instead of driving, simply to enjoy the fresh air.

But cold air makes outdoor activities less enjoyable, which is why it’s essential to find an indoor physical activity to keep things running smoothly. As Pria’s coach says, “motion is lotion.” If you’re unsure where to start, try these YouTube channels:

• Pahla B
• Yoga With Adriene
• Yoga With Kassandra
• Fabulous 50s

2. Include More Antioxidants in Your Diet

The holidays often come with high-calorie foods at every gathering. There might be a veggie tray around, but it’s tempting to skip it. 

However, adding more antioxidants to your diet can be beneficial this time of year. Antioxidant-rich foods can help combat stress, boost your immune system, and promote digestive health.

Plus, antioxidants support healthy, glowing skin. Don’t think you can’t include these foods in holiday dishes! Berries, pomegranates, dark chocolate, spinach, carrots, legumes, herbs, and spices can all be part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal.

3. Consider Blood Work for Vitamin D Deficiency

In many places, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun’s UV rays are lower in the winter than in summer. This is why many people experience vitamin D deficiency in the colder months.

If you suspect a deficiency, consider getting blood work to see if you need a vitamin D supplement. If you don’t like pills, you might opt for vitamin D gummies instead.

If you’re unsure about supplements, episode three of the Nourify & Beautify podcast discusses how to decide what’s safe for you.

4. Drink Water for Skin Hydration

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should drink less water. Dry, irritated skin is a common winter problem, and staying hydrated is essential for combating this.

To keep your skin hydrated and moisturized, drink plenty of water. Skip the spiked eggnog for another glass of water. As Pria advises, drink water like you live in the desert!

5. Use a Hydrating Face Mask

Everywhere you go, someone will probably be snapping photos. You don’t want to look tired or dull in any pictures.

Using a hydrating or collagen mask can brighten and plump your face before seeing everyone. It’s a great way to boost your confidence and show up looking refreshed.

6. Focus on Scalp Health to Prevent Thinning Hair

What’s the number one area we tend to neglect? The scalp. Remember, your scalp is part of your skin!

Dryness can lead to hair loss, which is often worse in the winter. Switch to a more moisturizing shampoo, especially one with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or rosemary oil, to prevent dryness and thinning.

7. Combat Chapped Lips with a Barrier

Cold wind does more than just chill your face; it can also leave your lips chapped. The wind strips away moisture from the lips, which have few oil glands and are particularly delicate.

Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dry, flaky skin, then apply a lip moisturizer with ceramides to deeply hydrate. For extra protection and to lock in moisture, consider using Vaseline as a barrier.

8. Avoid Relying on SPF Foundations

Yes, you still need sunscreen during winter. Lower UV rays don’t mean you can skip it.

However, SPF foundations often don’t provide enough protection. Instead, use a dedicated sunscreen first, followed by a moisturizing primer, before applying your favorite foundation.

9. Make Small Changes

Don’t try to make all these changes at once. Start small, adding one new habit each day.

For instance, if you want to work out more, try a ten-minute routine from one of the YouTube channels above every other day. This way, by January, you’ll already be on your way to a more active lifestyle.

10. Carve Out Time to Reduce Stress

Stress can take a toll on your body and make you look older than you are. That’s why it’s crucial to set aside time for yourself.

When you have dedicated “me-time,” your skin, hair, and overall health will improve as your stress levels decrease. Although it can be hard to find time for yourself during the holidays, episode five of the Nourify & Beautify podcast offers helpful tips for creating self-care time.

Enjoy Your Holidays with These Ten Wellness Tips

The holidays are all about family and spending time together, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your health. Use these wellness tips to stay healthy and relaxed during the holiday madness.