Winter, cold weather and celebrations: taking care of ourselves with common sense
Winter arrives, bringing family gatherings and festive meals… but it is also a time when our bodies may need a little extra care.
Lower temperatures, shorter days, changes in routine and the typical holiday excesses can affect our health more than we realise.
In this context, Ambulàncies Catalunya we recommend practical, realistic and useful approach to prevention, and we would like to share some basic measures that promote health and overall wellbeing.
Cold weather and the body: what really happens?
When temperatures drop, the body must adapt to a more demanding environment.
It is common for the heart to work a little harder, as cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict in order to retain heat. Airways may also become drier, causing irritation or discomfort, and muscles and joints can feel stiffer—especially in older people or during periods of intense cold.
Each body reacts differently, which is why maintaining routines that help us feel protected and comfortable during winter is so important.
Celebrations: joy at full intensity
During Christmas and New Year celebrations, our routines often change. We eat more and consume richer foods, move around more, rest less and tend to drink more alcohol. Stress levels can also rise, even if we don’t always acknowledge it.
All of this can lead to general fatigue, digestive discomfort or simply the feeling of having “lost our rhythm”. There is no need to feel guilty—it’s normal. However, there are ways to ease the impact.
Simple tips for a healthier winter
At Ambulàncies Catalunya, we always say that prevention is the best way to take care of ourselves—and it often starts with small, simple habits.
Maintain a stable body temperature
Dress in layers and avoid sudden temperature changes, especially if you have cardiovascular risk factors.
Hydration and rest
Winter can also cause dehydration. Drinking enough water and getting sufficient sleep helps regulate many bodily functions.
Daily movement
Walking for 20–30 minutes a day, even in cold weather, improves circulation, mood and overall wellbeing.
Listen to your body after indulgent meals
If a meal has been heavier than usual, give your digestion a break the next day with lighter foods, water, fruit, juices or herbal teas. Small adjustments can make a big difference.
Avoid smoke and poorly ventilated spaces
As we learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, good ventilation is essential when viruses are more prevalent.
Older people: a group that needs special care
Winter can be particularly challenging for older adults, who may feel the cold, fatigue and routine changes more intensely.
It is important to:
- Ensure they are properly dressed to avoid both cold and overheating.
- Keep living spaces well ventilated and at a comfortable temperature.
- Encourage gentle daily walks.
- Accompany them during meals and gatherings to prevent loneliness or exhaustion.
Enjoying a new winter season
This winter, taking care of ourselves means making small everyday choices: dressing warmly, maintaining routines that make us feel good and adjusting our pace when celebrations disrupt it a little.
We wish you a calm winter and Happy Holidays filled with good health.
