When that northern gust threatens to sweep us off our feet, and when half our colleagues are on sick leave to the flu, we know it can only mean one thing: winter is approaching.
Winter has a way of getting to us with all the nasty that it brings with it: exhaustion, cold, illness, depression not exactly something to look forward to. In order to counter that, we have scavenged the globe for the most useful tips on how to prevent those coughs and sniffles this winter, ranging from dietary tips to advice on how to spend your free time. Here are some words of wisdom from some of our most valued experts:
Your Nutritionist says: Consume carbs, carbs, carbs! Forget Atkins, forget low-carb diets, your body needs carbohydrates in order to keep itself warm throughout the winter. Don't overdo it, of course - keep in mind that everything is best consumed in moderation. What is essential to a healthy diet is to eat quality foods (whole foods, starch, protein, veggies) in the right quantities.
Your GP says: Build up your defences in as many ways as you can. One of the ways you can do this is by getting the flu jab. Modern medicine is a wonderful way of tacking long-existing illnesses. Other ways to boost your immune system are to take vitamin tablets and to get plenty of rest. A few extra hours of sleep a night will also increase your chances of staying healthy, doing miracles for your mind as well as your body. Also get some extra nutrients in addition to your daily meals, such as Zinc, Iron, and Vitamin C, will help strengthen your defences against the inevitable flues and sniffles that come knocking at your door at this time of year.
Your Osteopath says: Acupressure and acupuncture are well-used ancient practices which will enhance your sense of well being. They help spread and balance the energy within your body so you feel more centred and revitalised. A good deep-tissue massage can also achieve this sense of balance. By loosening up your stiff joints and sore muscles, a massage stimulates blood flow which enables you to feel fresh and more energetic. In order to treat external illness, we have to start by tackling the disease from within - only then can we treat the problem, not just the symptoms.
Your Psychologist says: Many of my clients suffer from seasonal depression. This is primarily caused by a lack of sunlight during the winter months - you won't believe the positive impact light has on your mood, as well as your body. Go on a vacation this winter, to a place where you can get plenty of sunlight, exercise, and peace. The French Alps or Spain are excellent destinations.
These expert perspectives should be enough to keep you healthy in every possible way this winter season: physically, mentally, and emotionally. So beat down the problem before it gets you down - eat that well-balanced meal, take some vitamin pills, get a deep-tissue massage and plan that holiday for mid-January. We all have our own ways of ploughing through another long winter, but hopefully, armed with these bits of advice, you are well on your way to emerging from that bitter cold unscathed, whole, and happy.
