Winter time, for me, feels like the one season of the year when we appear to be most out-of-step with nature and this can impact our health and vitality. At this time of year when nature is coming within, getting quiet and still and days are shorter many of us are out, over-consuming and wearing ourselves out. Now I probably sound like the biggest party pooper ever, but hear me out if you are ready to thrive this winter season.

There are many things which impact our health and immune system as well as making us feel sluggish and unfortunately overconsuming sugar, alcohol combined with lots of late nights and not taking time to rest and replenish, leave us depleted and feeling anything less than fabulous. Interestingly, you may also wish to know that oestrogen helps to boost our immune system so some women may have noticed that they catch everything going around during the time of their period or since they’ve started navigating perimenopause and menopause transition. If you’ve noticed this, it’s time to get your hormones back in check. Like most other people I love to celebrate with yummy foods and treats but I have learned to balance them out with lots of health boosting veggies and fruit and by keeping hydrated (that means water not wine!)

So, what are some of my top tips for staying vibrant this winter?

1. Say “no” to any parties, events or gatherings that aren’t a “heck, yes!” If you are anything like me, the stress of being somewhere you don’t want to be can impact your wellbeing. Plus, over-committing can leave us stressed and overwhelmed which again can leave us feeling depleted.

2. Be prepared before a night out and have that pint of water with lemon ready by your bed to help support your liver and kidneys – key organs in the body for supporting health and vitality. Milk thistle can also help support the liver to manage alcohol. Vitamin C helps support the body on so many levels and I’m sure you’ve also got some great herbal remedies – the key is to remember to take them.

3. Enjoy lots of warm drinks to stay hydrated. Try adding lemon and ginger. Why not make some big pot veggie soups? They’re great for your health and purse strings. Granny knew best when the Sunday roast chicken became chicken soup for the rest of the week.

4. If you feel it’s too cold for salads, steaming is a great way to keep getting all those healthy veggie nutrients.5. It’s time to consider a vitamin D supplement. Many of us don’t get enough vitamin D during the winter months and so why not talk to your health provider about topping up your levels?

6. Rest, rest, rest. When looking at your diary here’s an invitation to add in a few duvet days or cosy nights, with some early nights to stop you feeling frazzled.

7. How do you balance the treats so that you are loving and living life without feeling depleted and sluggish a few days later? For me it’s all about the veggies, the hydration and getting my protein (and please remember it’s your choice of protein).

8. Get out in daylight as much as you can, especially if you leave home in the dark, sit in an office and then drive home in the dark. Even as homeworkers, make a commitment to get out for, even a short, walk during daylight.

9. Spend time with people you love. People who make you laugh and who respect your boundaries.

10. Remember to have fun and make sure that your needs are being met as much as you are meeting the needs of others.

Mairi Taylor