As the seasons change, so should our eating habits, lifestyle and skincare to keep us well-supported through the seasonal changes.
Colder temperatures and gusty winds make us spend more time indoors, encouraging the viruses spread more quickly. It’s during that time of the year when our bodies need all the support they can get to ward off seasonal bugs and prevent us from getting sick.
Numerous botanicals are recognized for their harmonious relationship with our body's natural defenses working to gently support (not suppress) our natural ability to get better. No wonder we call them ‘plant allies’ or ‘herbal allies’.
Here are some simple, affordable and accessible self-care practices to help us and our loved ones stay well in winter:
1. Sip on herbal teas and broths
These do wonders to hydrate and replenish fluids lost through respiration and staying indoors in heated environments. Herbal blends can warm up and comfort, be a wonderful digestive aid, and most importantly, provide a wonderful source of minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes to keep us well.
2. Add more herbs and spices to your food
These go beyond enhancing flavour! Herbs and spices are nutritional powerhouses and help fortify our natural defences. Most of us have experienced the benefits of garlic, ginger, turmeric (and honey) for alleviating cold symptoms. Try thyme, sage, oregano, rosemary for a yummy tea or throat gargle. See that fresh bunch of culinary herbs in the store? Pick it up and make sure to consume!
3. Adjust your winter skincare
The cold, dry air and harsh weather conditions call for a rich emollient moisturizer to protect the skin against the elements. Plant butters such as shea butter, cacao butter, mango butter will help create a protective skin barrier and lock in the moisture.
Over-exfoliation can irritate dry winter skin. Choose a gentle exfoliator and use sparingly.
Avoid harsh skincare ingredients like fragrance oils, parabens, phthalates as they can exacerbate dryness and irritation, but also reduce your toxic load overall.
4. Try an herbal bath
A warm bath (or foot soak) can help your body to wind down and improve sleep quality. You’ll also benefit from relaxing magnesium-rich salts and inhaling medicinal qualities of the aromatic herbs and their volatile oils that absorb through the skin.
5. Listen to your body
Our bodies never lie as they send us signals to reveal what is that they need. Be it more rest and sleep, social connections, dietary changes, movement, or mind and emotions reset - honouring these can help carry us through the season!