At the time of writing we’re in the middle of our third lockdown with no end date in sight. Apparently it is 46 days until Spring. So here are a few tips to help you safely navigate your way through the rest of winter healthily.  Top immunity tips for good health include:

How about making use of the anti microbial properties of copper? Get yourself a copper water bottle. I love mine which I bought recently from a UK supplier!

Eat well. Now the Christmas food has gone and dry/vegan January is behind us, look at quality not quantity. It’s been said before but choose whole grain (fibre rich) foods. Super foods to add to your cupboard include mushrooms, ginger, fermented foods, pearl barley and rice grains. Don’t eat too much or too little. Vitamin D supplements are now recommended for every adult (1000iu daily).

You may want to add vitamin C and zinc in too if you feel your immunity is low (especially if you are chronically tired or stressed). Would you enjoy a spicy gold brew; you’ll need coconut milk, cardamon, grated ginger, a pinch of cinnamon and turmeric and ground black pepper. Infuse all the ingredients in a pan on a gentle heat for 10 mins. Strain and serve. If this is too complicated buy some lemon & ginger or echinacea tea. Why not try this recipe for tasty immune boosting soup?

Exercise! Have fun, dance away to music inside. If it’s cold and grey could you push yourself first thing to have a bracing walk, run or cycle before you shower and breakfast (try coffee first if you are bleary eyed)? 25-20 mins is better than nothing. Go on… walk that imaginary dog…

Hydrate. Drink two big glasses of water (hot or cold) on waking; before you wear your mask, after you have removed it and with tea, coffee, alcohol… Job done.

Sleep well. Aim for a bedtime before midnight. What can you treat yourself with; a comfy mattress topper, new pjs, freshly laundered sheets, a great book?

If you can aim for contentment this can lead to happiness. Do you need to reframe your expectations? Are you safe, warm, not hungry, have a comfy bed and good friends/family? The beautiful world is out there with the spring and summer just round the corner. You can make it. Heather