5 ways the winter months can negatively impact your health...and what to do about it
Did you know the winter months can actually have a negative impact on your health? Yes, it's true! While you're trying to be festive and get into the holiday spirit, the harsh reality is the weather is working against you! Here's some tips to help you stay healthy this season:
Challenge # 1: Cold and flu season. Doesn't it seem like it's always cold and flu season these last few years? Winter is actually associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections due to colder temps and drier air, which can make you more susceptible to viruses. Support: Support a healthy and strong immune system by consuming plenty of vitamin-rich foods such as fruits and veggies, stay hydrated, and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. I like to include immune-supporting supplements like Immugummies or ImmuPro, and respiratory supporting oils like Raven or Breathe Again.* |
Challenge # 2: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Reduced exposure to sunlight during winter months can lead to a type of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder. This condition can affect mood, energy levels, and overall mental well-being. Support: Try light therapy. Increase exposure to natural light, use light therapy lamps, and maintain a regular sleep schedule to alleviate symptoms of SAD. Try incorporating essential oils like Harmony and Joy into your daily routine to create an uplifting atmosphere. |
Challenge # 3: Decreased physical activity. Colder weather and shorter daylight hours may discourage outdoor physical activities, leading to a reduction in exercise. This lack of physical activity may contribute to weight gain and negative impacts on cardiovascular health. Support: Engage in indoor workouts, yoga, or home exercises to stay active and maintain physical health during colder months. Exercise has been shown to significantly increase serotonin, which has positive impacts on overall mental well-being. |
Challenge # 4: Skin issues. Indoor heating systems and cold winds can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, itching, and irritation. This can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Support: Drink plenty of water and use moisturizers such as Sandalwood Moisture Cream or Genesis Hand & Body Lotion to combat dry skin. |
Challenge # 5: Increased risk of accidents. Icy and slippery conditions during winter can contribute to an increased risk of accidents and injuries, including slips and falls. Cold weather can also exacerbate conditions like arthritis, causing joint pain and stiffness. Support: Wear appropriate footwear for icy conditions, salt driveways and walkways, and exercise cautions to prevent slips and falls. Manage chronic conditions such as arthritis with proper self care and medical guidance. Incorporate essential oils and supplements such as PanAway and Agilease to support joint flexibility and mobility.* |
Remember it will take extra effort to ensure you stay healthy during the winter months, so be intentional with your self care and make yourself a priority during this season!
We will dive deeper into combating the negative health effects of the winter season in this month's free virtual class, Easy Strategies for Staying Healthy During the Winter Months. Come join us! We'd love to share with you what we've learned!
The Feelings Kit
six essential oil blends that inspire feelings of emotional wellbeing and provide the foundation for encouraging forgiveness and identifying oneself.
Super Vitamin D
vegan friendly formula that supports healthy respiratory system, bone growth, immune system, and hormone production.*
Thieves Mouthwash
alcohol and fluoride free, with colloidal silver and essential oils to support healthy gums and teeth when used daily.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Young Living products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Money-Saving Natural Dishwasher Solution Hack!
One question I get asked often when teaching families to ditch the toxins is..."but what about the dishwasher powder? The natural stuff I've tried always leaves a film!"
I get it. I was once a fan of those little pods that claim to cut through all the grime and leave your dishes sparkling clean. No doubt they do, but do you really want all those toxins on the dishes you put your food on? Through some trial and error, I've come up with the perfect way to get the dishes sparkling clean without harsh chemicals, and without breaking the bank!
Note: this is what works for me. Your water may be different and you may need to adjust or do some trial and error until you find what works for you. This combo lasts me a LONG time before I have to replenish and the dishes come out sparkling clean!
Supplies:
Thieves Household Cleaner (gives it a cleaning boost!)
Thieves Fruit & Veggie Soak (optional, but the enzymes in it help to cut through the stuck on food)
Citric Acid Powder (I get mine on Amazon)
Empty bottle (recycle an empty Thieves Dish Soap or Thieves Household Cleaner bottle)
Water
Directions:
1. Fill the empty bottle up to halfway (I usually only do a 1/4 of it and it works fine for me) with citric acid powder, then top with water. Close and shake bottle to mix well. This is your homemade "rinse aid".
2. In the soap container of your dishwasher, add a small squirt of dish soap (I'm talking like pea sized), one capful of Thieves Household Cleaner, and optional capful of Thieves Fruit & Veggie Soak.
3. Use your rinse aid mix to fill the rinse aid container of your dishwasher.
4. Fill and run your dishwasher as usual.
Have a YL tip you'd like us to consider for the monthly newsletter?
Send me an email at 1natureatitsfinest@gmail.com with the subject "TIP OF THE MONTH"!
SPOTLIGHT ON RED CEDAR BLISS
Red Cedar Bliss is a warm, woodsy, spicy-citrus essential oil blend that delivers powerful antioxidants to support overall wellness and a healthy immune system.
Watch our Facebook group for drops of information on Red Cedar Bliss throughout the month.
Our Next
21 Day Challenge
Starts January 10!
Easy Strategies for Staying Healthy During the Winter
Virtual Class Tuesday Dec 12th at 7pm
Copyright Nichole Utt
