5 Easy Ways to Keep Yourself Healthy During Extreme Winters in North India
As the chill of extreme winters sets in across North India, staying healthy can become a challenge. With temperatures dipping below freezing in some regions, the cold can impact your body in various ways — from skin dryness to weakened immunity. However, by following a few simple practices, you can ensure your health remains in top condition even during the harsh winter months.
Here are 5 easy ways to keep yourself healthy during extreme winters in North India:
Boost Your Immunity with Seasonal Foods
Winter in North India brings an abundance of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and warming spices that are packed with nutrients to help keep your immune system strong. Incorporate these foods into your diet for better health and warmth during the chilly months.
- Leafy greens like spinach and mustard greens (sarson) are rich in iron and vitamins, helping you stay energized.
- Root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Nuts and dry fruits such as almonds, walnuts, and raisins provide healthy fats and proteins that help keep your body warm.
- Seasonal fruits like oranges, guavas, and pomegranates are packed with vitamin C, which strengthens your immunity.
- Add ginger, garlic, and turmeric to your meals as they have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Tip: Consider having a warm bowl of dal with ghee and roti made from whole wheat flour. This combination offers warmth and nourishment for your body.
Layer Up: Dress in Warm, Comfortable Clothes
North India experiences extreme winter temperatures, particularly in regions like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Rajasthan. To protect your body from the cold, it’s important to dress in layers.
- Thermal wear: Start with thermal wear as a base layer to keep your body insulated.
- Woolen clothes: Wool is a great insulator, so wear woolen sweaters, shawls, and socks to trap warmth.
- Windproof and waterproof outerwear: During snowfall or rain, opt for jackets and coats that are both windproof and waterproof to prevent getting drenched and cold.
- Don’t forget your gloves, scarves, and woollen hats — keeping your extremities warm help regulate your body temperature.
Tip: Keep a warm pair of socks by your bedside to wear as soon as you wake up to avoid sudden temperature shocks to your body.
Stay Hydrated
While it’s easy to forget to drink water when the weather is cold, dehydration can still occur during winter. The dry, cold air can lead to moisture loss from your skin and body, leading to dry skin and a weakened immune system.
- Drink warm water, herbal teas, or soups to stay hydrated. These warm liquids help soothe your throat and stomach while replenishing fluids.
- Warm lemon water or ginger tea can be an excellent choice to kick-start your day and boost your metabolism.
- Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, as they can dehydrate your body.
Tip: If you’re feeling sluggish, try adding honey and a slice of lemon to warm water — it helps with digestion and keeps you hydrated.
Exercise Regularly to Stay Active and Warm
Staying active during the winter months can help boost circulation, enhance immunity, and keep your body warm. While stepping out for a jog or walk may seem less appealing in freezing temperatures, there are plenty of indoor exercises you can do to stay healthy and fit.
- Yoga: Practice yoga poses like Surya Namaskar (sun salutation), which helps increase circulation and flexibility while keeping you warm.
- Aerobic exercises like indoor cycling, jump rope, or using a treadmill can help raise your body temperature and improve cardiovascular health.
- Simple home workouts like squats, lunges, or push-ups can also keep your muscles active and prevent stiffness.
Tip: Try to incorporate morning walks in the early hours of sunlight. The sun’s warmth, even during the cold season, helps your body feel energized and revitalized.
Moisturize and Protect Your Skin
Cold, dry air can wreak havoc on your skin during the winter months. To avoid dryness, irritation, and even conditions like eczema, it’s crucial to take good care of your skin.
- Use a thick moisturizer or body lotion after bathing to lock in moisture. Consider using natural oils like coconut oil or almond oil for a nourishing effect.
- Apply a lip balm to prevent chapped lips and keep them hydrated.
- In areas with extremely cold winds or snowfall, wear a scarf to protect your face from drying winds and cold temperatures.
- Don’t forget to use a good sunscreen during the day, as the winter sun can still cause damage to your skin.
Tip: Take a warm bath with Epsom salts to relax your body and retain moisture in your skin.
Final Thoughts:
Winter in North India can be both beautiful and challenging. However, by following these simple and easy practices, you can ensure that your body stays healthy, energized, and protected throughout the season. From dressing warmly to nourishing your body with seasonal foods, staying hydrated, and keeping your skin moisturized, small changes can make a big difference. Stay warm, stay active, and enjoy the winter months in all their glory!