Thrive With a Winter Routine
Fall has been amazing; now it’s time to bundle up and get ready for the wintry months. Winter is a tender time for rest and self-rejuvenation. Some of us like to hibernate like little bears in the woods. It’s a season to slow down—perfect for indulging in luscious milk baths that soothe and nourish the skin, and warm oil massages that relax the nerves and ease stiff joints. Enjoying the comforting moments of wrapping yourself up in your favorite blanket with a delicious cup of golden milk or hot tea. Here are some simple suggestions to help support your daily health all winter long.
Make these easy, delicious practices part of your wellness routine to help keep you healthy and vibrant throughout the season.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
When it’s cold outside, we aren’t as thirsty. But dehydration weakens the immune system, so it’s extra important to find delicious ways to stay hydrated. Try keeping a thermos of warm water or herbal tea with you throughout the day—and don’t forget to refill it frequently! Spiced teas made with warming herbs like cinnamon and cardamom are great options for keeping you cozy while boosting circulation.
2. Sleep and Stretch
Go to bed earlier and arise later to align with nature’s rhythm. Stretch those cold, tight muscles before springing out of bed to help ease tension and improve circulation.
3. Get Up and Move!
Shake off winter sluggishness by getting your body moving. Jump around, dance, stretch, or take a brisk walk (just be sure to bundle up!). Any movement that gets your blood flowing helps neutralize the slow, heavy winter energy.
4. Embrace the Light
When indoors, sit near a window to soak up as much natural light as possible. Wear warm colors like red, copper, orange, dark green, and black—these colors can contribute psychologically to a feeling of warmth and cheerfulness.
5. Eat Warm Foods—and Don’t Forget the Spice!
Dry winter air means finding moisture in your food. Soups, stews, and curries are great options for ease of digestion and generating warmth. Add plenty of warming spices for an extra boost. Think black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cayenne, and turmeric. Hard, dry foods can make your body work harder, so when eating salads, toss them in dressing and let them marinate for extra softness.
A comforting cup of golden milk with turmeric and ginger is another way to incorporate warmth into your daily routine. These spices not only help digestion but also reduce inflammation and promote circulation.
Check out this list of thermogenic herbs and spices that will improve circulation, warm the body, and offer antimicrobial benefits:
- Black Pepper: Improves circulation, warms the body, has antiseptic properties
- Cardamom: Boosts bone health, plus helps clear out mucus
- Cayenne Pepper: Enhances circulation, helps relieve chills, coughs, and congestion
- Cinnamon: Warms the body, improves circulation
- Clove: Stimulates circulation, disinfects, and promotes warmth
- Garlic: Improves circulation, acts as a vasodilator
- Ginger: Enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, relieves stiff, achy joints
Sprinkle these spices into your meals or beverages to add a warming touch.
Embrace the rhythm of winter by nurturing yourself with warmth and care. With these simple practices, you’ll stay cozy and vibrant all season long.
Discover our warming blends like Golden Milk and our Adaptogenic Masala Chai, elevating your winter wellness regimen. Crafted with cozy spices and adaptogenic herbs to warm you up and support your immune system.