Jayney's Blog

Whilst winter is delightful in places it is also accompanied by a cocktail of challenges. This is particularly applicable within the region of the Northern Hemisphere! Said challenges may come in both physical and emotional formats, sometimes culminating in Seasonal Affective Disorder (a syndrome we have discussed on my page very recently). Each of these issues is very real and can be incredibly debilitating. One of my top priorities as a complementary medical practitioner is to bring each of you through the winter months, feeling happy, healthy, and, best of all, optimally resistant to opportunistic infections. As a result, I wanted to craft a winter survival guide to help each of you navigate the next few months feeling the best version of yourself!

Walking More

I strongly advise each of you to get out and walk often, free of glasses (where possible), so that much-needed sun can reach your retinas. Whilst indoor lighting provides us with circa 25-50 LUX, being outside on even a cloudy day will expose you to 8000 – 10000 LUX and more. This exposure not only helps to reset your body clock but also stabilises hormone production (including melatonin- the hormone that helps us to sleep properly).  

Taking a walk in nature can also help us to improve mindfulness. Any time spent in nature is profoundly healing and proven to reduce inflammation. Further, when your skin gets exposed to natural sunlight, the body absorbs vitamin D, which many lack throughout the winter months. 

Caring for your skin in winter

On a cold winter’s day, there is nothing quite as satisfying as standing under a steaming shower. Whilst it is incredibly tempting to turn the time and the temperature up, long periods under hot water strips moisture from both your hair and skin, drying them out very quickly. I recommend sticking to warm or lukewarm water for just 5 minutes or less. 

If you are prone to chapped skin from cold exposure, emollient creams, bath oils, and protective lip balms are an incredibly effective fix. Making your own is even better! These can be made using any plant oil you like (almond, coconut, jojoba are all good) and adding just a few drops of any soothing essential oil.  

Home-made moisturisers can also act as an effective remedy. Avocado and bananas are just two natural ingredients that make great moisturising face treatments. Another tip is to add whole grains to meals (including quinoa and brown rice) and, using aromatic veggies in as many recipes as often. Onion and Garlic, among others, contain selenium, which promotes skin elasticity. 

Don’t skimp on the ‘C’ or Beta Carotene

Produce rich in Vitamin C-rich, including citrus fruit and dark, leafy greens, can help boost your body’s collagen production. This protein is key to maintaining the integrity of your skin and other connective tissues. I also recommend getting as many fruits and veggies into your diet in general to experience the benefits of their vitamin C content. To top it all off, they also contain a vast array of phytochemicals (potent immune enhancers).  To support you in your quest, keep an eye out for next weeks newsletter (the last one of the year) in which you will find a little Christmas Gift from yours truly…

If you apply the above tips, I honestly believe you can make it through this winter season, the healthiest and happiest version of yourself. For more exclusive advice, visit my website JayneyGoddard.org, or reach out on one of my platforms. I adore hearing from you. 

All my love,

Jayney