Yes, winter does come in Australia, and it’s not as friendly as you think it would be. Despite its reputation for sun, sand and sea, winter can be an unforgiving season especially for those not used to the climate.

Winter in Australia lasts from June to August. With a pandemic still going on, it’s best to keep our immune system at 100% during the next weeks. So, here are some health tips that will get you through the Australian winter:

Choose healthy food.

The cold weather makes it all the more tempting to bulk up. However, there are many ways to keep the belly warm without risking your health. Choose comfort food made up of veggies and fruits instead of loading on carbs. Drink lots of tea to keep you both warm and healthy. There are also plenty of healthy snacks available in groceries and online stores. This quarantine is also the best time to practice mindful eating, as well as planning your meals and snacks.

Drink lots of water.

Needless to say, water is a true life saver no matter the season. Colder weather can actually leave us more dehydrated. In general, adults are recommended at least 2 liters of water daily. Keep track of your water intake by owning a 2-liter sized container, or 2 1-liter sized ones. Drinking plenty of water regulates your body temperature. It also moisturizes your skin and allows your body to absorb nutrients faster.

Get a good nights’ rest.

Sleep remains underrated in our modern world. However, sleep is the very foundation of a sound mind and body. Some helpful tips for a good nights’ sleep is avoiding your gadgets at least 2 hours before sleeping. It is also best to stop drinking coffee in the afternoon. Creating a chill bedtime ritual before sleeping also helps. Read a book, write in your journal, meditate, dim the lights and diffuse some essential oils. Peppermint and oregano are great scents to circulate during these months.

Build better mental health.

The “winter” blues are a real thing, and more people are realizing that they suffer from seasonal affective disorder. If you have been oversleeping, experiencing appetite changes, having less energy, and feeling generally depressed, you might want to consult a psychologist. It’s time we remove the stigma from seeking help. Other things you can do for yourself are talking to a friend, reading self-help books and finding ways to boost your happy hormones.

Prevent cold and flu.

Given our current global situation, preventing flu is more important than ever. The best thing to do is to boost our immune system by loading up on Vitamin C. Eat lots of strawberries, tomatoes, kiwis, papayas and oranges. Surprisingly enough, plenty of veggies have Vitamin C too. Keep your pantry full of potatoes, red bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Social distancing is still a must, and washing your hands for at least 20 seconds can save your life.

Winter can be cruel and trying, but it can also be quite fun. The best thing to remember is to stay healthy: physically, mentally and emotionally. Share these tips with your friends and let them know you’re looking out for them!

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Listen and learn from a legend when you tune in to Rick Charls’ interview with Innovator Diaries. This world-record high diver has plenty of knowledge to share about discipline, resilience and grit. Check out the podcast episode here.

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2. https://society6.com/revolutionaustralia/wall-art