As winter sets in, Australians everywhere seek ways to stay warm and cosy. While the temperatures drop, there’s no need to let the chill dampen your spirits. Here are some top tips to keep warm this winter while enjoying the best seasonal produce and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
1. Layer Up
One of the simplest ways to stay warm is to dress in layers. Layers trap heat, providing better insulation. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm middle layer like wool or fleece, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget the essentials: hats, scarves, gloves, and warm socks.
2. Warm Up with Seasonal Soups
Nothing beats the winter chill like a steaming bowl of soup. Soups made from seasonal vegetables warm you up and provide essential nutrients. Try our favourite Winter Vegetable Soup, featuring carrots, potatoes, and leeks, all in season during the colder months. Add a touch of ginger and garlic for extra warmth and flavour.
3. Stay Active
While it’s tempting to stay curled up on the couch, staying active is crucial for keeping warm. Physical activity boosts circulation and generates heat. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a home workout, moving your body will help you stay warm and healthy.
4. Eat Hearty, Nutritious Meals
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy hearty meals that provide long-lasting energy. Incorporate seasonal produce such as sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and leafy greens into your diet. These vegetables are not only warm but also packed with vitamins and minerals that support your immune system.
5. Hot Beverages to the Rescue
Warm drinks are your best friend in winter. Enjoy hot teas, coffees, and hot chocolate to keep the chill at bay. Herbal teas with ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric can also provide additional health benefits. Try our recipe for Spiced Apple Cider, made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and cloves – a perfect winter warmer.
6. Make Use of Heating Wisely
Ensure your home heating is efficient and safe. Close doors to unused rooms, use draft stoppers and insulate your home to retain heat. Electric blankets and hot water bottles can provide extra warmth without the need for high thermostat settings. Always follow safety guidelines when using heating devices.
7. Embrace Indoor Activities
Winter is a great time to indulge in indoor hobbies. Reading, knitting, cooking, or even a movie marathon can make staying indoors enjoyable. Cooking, in particular, can be a warming activity – baking bread or making a casserole can heat up your kitchen and provide delicious comfort food.
8. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold, but staying hydrated is important year-round. Dehydration can make you feel colder, so keep up your fluid intake with water, herbal teas, and soups.
9. Create a Warm Home Ambience
Transform your living space into a cosy retreat. Use warm lighting, candles, and soft furnishings like blankets and cushions to create a comfortable environment. A warm and inviting home can make the winter months more enjoyable.
10. Get Plenty of Rest
Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining your body’s ability to regulate temperature. Make sure your bedroom is warm and comfortable, and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
By incorporating these tips into your winter routine, you can stay warm, healthy, and comfortable throughout the season. Remember, winter is also a time to enjoy the unique offerings of the season, from cosy nights in to hearty meals made with the freshest produce.
Stay warm and enjoy the winter!
For more winter recipes and tips, visit our recipe page.