Staying healthy during autumn and winter time. Yes, it is possible!
Date 21 November 2024
21.11.2024Colder months and rainy days, less sun and additionally, change of time may make us feel worse, having bad mood and not being motivated enough to complete some activities as before. This time, it is frequent to catch some viruses but nobody wants to have a cold or get a flu, right?
This is very significant to take care of your health and wellbeing during this time. Some of you may find it challenging, especially when you need to focus on your studies and meet deadlines of you assignments. However, balancing your wellbeing and studies is a key to stay healthy, not just physically but also mentally.
In this blog you will get to know ways of how to look after yourself, how to avoid being ill and what you can find useful during autumn and winter months.
Emilia’s tips
Care about your sleeping routine
You may not realise, but sleeping is a very important aspect to function well during the day. It is recommended to sleep 7-9 hours so when you wake up, you feel relaxed and recharged which leads to motivation and better productivity. You will have strength to complete activities and stay active. Great fact: Sleeping itself boosts immunity! Additionally, it helps you to manage stress well.
You should set some sleeping routine for yourself eg. try to go to bed at the same time each day and wake up regularly. Before going to bed try to reduce use of technology, you can read a book as an alternative – make sure to choose light-hearted type of books which can make you calm, happy and entertained. Additionally, you need to create right sleeping atmosphere with a comfortable bed, soft pillows and blankets as well as the right room temperature: 15°C to 18°C.
Maintain healthy diet
It is important to give yourself the right vitamins, proteins and other nutrients which play important roles in your body. When there is not a lot sun during autumn and winter, you may need eat food rich in vitamin D: fish, beef liver, eggs, milk and cheese. Vitamin C is also helpful, which you can find in broccoli, lemons, oranges, strawberries and tomatoes. You should try to cut out on fat, salt and sugar and eat more vegetables, fruits and fish. While shopping it is a good idea to look at the labels which provide information on the ingredients and amount of fats, sugars etc. Remember: for additional support for your body, you can take vitamins tablets, which you can buy in most shops as well as pharmacies. Always take them as instructed by the doctor, pharmacist or on the packaging.
Stay active
Although, you may find it difficult to stay active, it really helps you to stay healthy and avoid many health conditions. It helps to keep to the right weight, reduce stress and provides energy to the body. You can start by taking regular walks, cycling or trying new things like swimming or basketball. Tip: The Student’s Union offers many sports societies which you can join for free! Also, remember to take regular breaks whilst you study.
Dress adequately according to the weather
When going out for a short time or travelling, make sure to check the weather forecast so you can know what to wear. In the UK, most of the time during autumn and winter it is windy and rainy so it is always a good idea to have a parker jacket or coat with you. You may also find it useful to wear few layers of clothing.
Register with a GP surgery
Always remember that if something worries you or you notice some changes in your health or get any new symptoms, seek medical advice. This is why you should be registered with the GP, nearest to your home. If you live on campus or locally, you can register with the Moulton Surgery which is based on the Waterside Campus.
Here are some points that can help you to live a healthy life, these can be adapted to suit your every day routine. Remember at the University of Northampton there is always support available. If you feel that you are struggling with your studies, get in touch with your lecturers and programme leaders. Your Personal Academic Tutor is always happy to help and have a chat about all matters important to you.
My name is Emilia. I study Business Management Finance here at UON. Recently I became the Course Rep and the Student Ambassador! I am very passionate about marketing and finance. Learning new things is very enjoyable to me. In my free time I like to travel, take part in courses, discover more about social media and take photos. I am a coffee lover too! I hope that you will find my blog interesting and as a good source.