Want a Winter Without Illness? 11 Secrets to Keep You from Running to the Doctor

The Israeli winter brings with it the cold, winds, rain, and the challenge of avoiding diseases that multiply in the chilly season. We all know that moment when the coughing begins, a cold sets in, or you just feel unwell, prompting panic and a rush to the doctor. So what if you could stay healthy, avoid illnesses, and feel great in the cold season? Here are 11 tips to help you get through winter in good health.

1. Keep Your Body Warm

The cold can weaken your immune system and increase the risk of illnesses. Make sure to dress in warm layers, wear hats and scarves, and don’t forget the gloves and socks, especially when going outside.

2. Maintain Hand Hygiene

Winter is a great time to spend indoors, but don’t neglect hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, especially after being outside or touching public surfaces. Hands are a main source for transferring germs and viruses.

3. Strengthen Your Immune System

Nothing will protect you better than a strong immune system. A healthy and balanced diet, including vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium, will help you fight any virus that comes your way.

4. Drink Plenty of Fluids

Despite the cold, drinking water or warm tea not only warms you up but also helps keep your body hydrated and prevents dehydration, which harms the immune system and can lead to illnesses.

5. Avoid Crowded, Enclosed Spaces

Winter brings with it crowding in enclosed spaces, where there is a higher risk of catching viral diseases. The less time you spend in crowded places, the lower your risk of infection.

6. Engage in Physical Exercise

Physical activity supports the immune system, maintains general health, and helps reduce stress. Winter doesn’t have to end your jogging routine; with appropriate sportswear and creative home workouts, you can still feel good.

7. Ensure Sufficient Rest

No matter how much work you have or how many tasks need completing, don’t skip on sufficient sleep. A tired body is less able to fight infections and illnesses. Make sure to sleep at least 7-8 hours a night to maintain good health.

8. Avoid High-Stress Situations

Increased stress can harm the immune system, making you more vulnerable to illnesses. Find ways to relax and reduce stress, whether through meditation, reading, or spending time with friends and family.

9. Be Ready with Hot Soup

If you've caught a cold or flu, hot soup can be an excellent remedy. It helps relieve nasal congestion, soothes the throat, and provides nutrients that can help the body recover more quickly.

10. Ensure Clean Air at Home

Winter brings closed windows and heaters, which can lead to dry air and bacterial build-up. Make sure to ventilate the house occasionally and use ventilation devices to maintain clean and healthy air.

11. Continuous Prayer for Health

Daily prayer, even if short, can enhance feelings of peace and security. Dedicate a few minutes every morning or evening for a personal prayer for the health of the body and mind. Believing that health is in the hands of Hashem can strengthen you and support your immune system spiritually.

Ultimately, all we do is just effort. The rest, the safeguarding of health, quick recovery, or disease prevention – all is in the hands of Heaven. Daily prayer is not only a spiritual tool for strengthening the spirit but also a true protection that accompanies us at every moment. When belief in prayer meets our personal effort, we emerge with double strength. So don’t forget – do all that is needed, but also make time for prayer, and remember that ultimately, all health is in the hands of Hashem.