Being unwell is never fun. The body aches, the constant runny nose, the loss of appetite, the list goes on. I am usually a healthy person but I do try to avoid getting sick at all costs.

There are ways we can attempt to stay well this winter, avoiding COVID-19 and keeping healthy. Try;

• Dressing appropriately – wear warm clothing when out and about; scarf, beanie, jacket, gloves even consider a singlet or thermals if you have to catch the train or be on playground duty. A warm winter coat should be a staple in your cupboard. One is enough.

• Eating oranges - it is orange season so buy up, grow a tree or go visit a farm for some orange picking fun. If not, take your Vitamin C chewables or even the drinking powder.

• Staying hydrated – drink water. It is easy to forget to drink water in Winter. You probably don’t think of it or you won’t feel like it as it’s not hot and drinking weather but it is still vital you get your sufficient intake each day. Add a slice of lemon to your water. If you do happen to have a sore throat, have hot lemon juice with honey, sugar, and ginger to help soothe it.

• Staying active – even if too cold or you really don’t feel like it. Keep moving, stay energise, be active to keep the bugs away.

• Santising - wash your hands after being outside, touching things in public places or before eating. You want to get rid of any germs.

• Getting some sun - get out in nature. Get your fill of Vitamin D when you can, even if it is just for ten minutes a day.

• Using the heater - don’t be afraid to use the heater, the small increase in your electricity bill will be worth it. Or use a hot water bottle, wear socks to bed, or put on your electric blanket to warm your bed to help you sleep easy.

• Consider healing plants - either as tea or to have in your home. Lemongrass is great for a sore throat, sage is good for a fever, lemon balm is good for pain and discomfort and echinacea is good for the immune function and colds and flu.

What works for you? How do you stay fit and healthy during the cold season? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.