Winter brings chilly temperatures, shorter days, and often a greater need to support our bodies through the season. The cold weather and lack of sunlight can leave many feeling sluggish and more susceptible to colds and flu. By turning to natural solutions, you can boost your immunity, maintain your energy, and stay well throughout the winter months.
HERBS FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT
Certain herbs have been celebrated for centuries for their immune-boosting and warming properties. Here are a few you can incorporate into your daily routine:
Elderberry: This powerful berry is packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help fortify your immune system. Elderberry syrup or tea is a delicious way to incorporate it into your routine or
supplements, if you're not already taking too many. 🤣
Echinacea: Known for its ability to support the body’s natural defenses,
echinacea can be taken as a tea, tincture, or supplement.
Ginger: A warming herb, ginger not only aids digestion but also supports circulation and can help ward off colds. Try a cup of ginger tea with honey and lemon for a comforting and healthful beverage. Not only can you use the herb in your cooking or tea, but the essential oil makes it super convenient – allowing you to have it on hand year-round. I also really love these
Ginger Digestive Drops, with Lemon essential oil and organic cane sugar because not alone are they convenient, they’re tasty too.
Turmeric: With its potent anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help support overall wellness. Pair it with black pepper to enhance absorption, and enjoy it as a “golden milk” latte. If you don’t want to have to pair it with black pepper, you can use the
essential oil instead. Or the
Turmeric Dual Chamber Capsules combine the essential oil and turmeric extract in an easy to swallow supplement. The combination of turmerones and cucuminoids help to maximize the effectiveness of both of the Turmeric compounds.
ESSENTIAL OILS FOR WINTER WELLNESS
doTERRA essential oils offer a natural way to support your body during the winter. While my family uses these products year-round, here are some of my top picks for the winter months:
On Guard® Protective Blend: This blend combines Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus and Rosemary to boost immunity and cleanse the air. Diffuse 4-6 drops of it daily. Apply 1-2 drops (diluted with a carrier oil of choice) to the bottoms of your feet or on your spine. The On Guard® Protective Blend is so awesome that doTERRA actually has dedicated an
entire line of products with it. From supplements to toothpaste and laundry detergent to hand sanitizer, you’ll be covered from inside out and head to toe.
Breathe® Respiratory Blend: Ideal for soothing respiratory discomfort, this blend can be diffused at night or applied to the chest to promote easier breathing. The essential oils in this blend include Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon, Cardamom, Ravintsara, and Ravensara. This combination helps you to maintain feelings of clear airways and is the perfect additional to your winter arsenal. With this respiratory blend having powerful effects there are several
Breathe® products to choose from.
Peppermint & Wild Orange: Known for their invigorating scents, can uplift your mood and help with seasonal sluggishness. I love the combination of these two oils diffused in the morning. Put a drop of each in your palm, rub your hands together, then close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths for a quick mid-afternoon pick-me-up. And as I’m writing this post, I’ve added one drop of
Peppermint to some hot water for a refreshing burst of energy.
Frankincense: Often called the “king of oils,” supports cellular health, enhances relaxation, and can be used to bolster your immune system.
Frankincense is an oil I use in multiple ways every day – from adding 2 drops to my
Verage Moisturizer in the morning to putting one drop under my tongue. I also roll on my spine along with
Copaiba essential oil, what I affectionately refer to as the “prince of oils” (tee-hee!).
RECOVERY & SELF-CARE
Winter is the perfect time to prioritize recovery and self-care. Incorporate these practices to stay energized and resilient:
Infrared & Red Light Therapy: These therapies promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and support overall cellular health. Regular sessions can help you combat winter fatigue and stay active. You can dive deeper into the benefits by checking out my post on
Cold, Heat & Light Therapy.
AromaStretch™: Combining the benefits of stretching with the therapeutic properties of essential oils, this practice can relieve tension, improve flexibility, and support mental clarity during the darker months.
AromaStretch™ is my innovative service, so if you’re not local to the Centennial, CO or surrounding areas, try to find a certified stretch practitioner near you.
Compression Sleeves: Enhance blood flow and aid in muscle recovery by using compression sleeves after exercise or during long periods of sitting.
Hydration: Cold weather often masks thirst, but staying hydrated is crucial for immunity and energy. Pro Tip: warm herbal teas are a soothing way to increase fluid intake. And just remember caffeine and alcohol are dehydrating, too.
Cold Plunge: I know what you’re thinking, the last thing you want to do is dip into anything cold during the winter months, BUT… cold-water immersion can boost circulation, reduce inflammation, and invigorate your body. This practice also supports mental resilience and can help combat winter sluggishness. I’m a HUGE fan of cryotherapy as well. You can check out the differences and similarities by reading my post:
Cryotherapy vs. Cold Plunging 
ENERGY & MOOD
Winter can take a toll on mood and energy levels. Combat these effects with natural remedies:
Sunshine & Nature: While winter limits sunlight exposure, spending time outdoors when the sun is out can provide a natural mood and energy boost. Pair this with exposure to nature’s calming effects to support overall well-being.
Mindfulness & Prayer: Incorporate mindfulness exercises or prayer into your daily routine to stay grounded and connected. These practices can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience.
Movement: Engage in gentle movement like stretching, yoga or brisk walks to combat lethargy and improve circulation. Add invigorating essential oils like, the aforementioned, Peppermint and Wild Orange to your routine for an added boost.
Remember winter doesn’t have to mean feeling rundown and low on energy. By embracing natural solutions like herbs, doTERRA essential oils and recovery practices you can support your body and thrive through the colder months. Prioritize self-care and holistic wellness to stay energized, resilient, and healthy all winter long.
xoDanette