Top tips for a healthier winter

Winter = couch? Not on our watch!

You know that 30 minutes of moderate exercise like walking, running, cycling or swimming can strengthen your immune system, help you sleep better, boost your mood and reduce stress and anxiety. And staying healthy can be as easy as following our five steps to a healthier you.

But how do you stick to your exercise goals when the weather gets in the way? It's simple. You live life with Vitality every single day.

1. Get a workout buddy or join a team.
   
   Behavioural research shows that training with an emotionally supportive workout buddy or in a group taps into our human desire for approval and our capacity to motivate others. Joining group events like a parkrun can serve as powerful motivation to keep going when everyday training gets tough. So, commit to moving more this winter by grabbing yourself a workout buddy or joining a running or cycling club.
   
   Bonus tip: How to pick the perfect running partner


2. Put out your workout clothes the night before.
   
   Did you know that your exercise clothes can motivate you to keep moving? Your workout gear is a reminder or a contextual clue that it's time to exercise now. So, make it the first thing you see when you wake up in the morning. Plus, invest in good quality winter sports gear like long-sleeve tops, fleecy leggings, thermal jackets or gloves to feel safe, warm and supported during your workout.


3. Take advantage of free gym offers.
   
   One of the easiest ways to commit to your fitness is to join a gym. Beat the winter chill from a treadmill! If you join the gym with Vitality today, you can skip the activation and gym fees in June and July. Plus, get up to 75% off on your monthly gym fees from August 2022.
   • Find out more about the free gym offer at Virgin Active, Planet Fitness and Moove Motion Fitness Club.

Take time to rest and practise self-care

Winter is a time to rest, reflect and reset your health. The nights are longer for a reason! Be kind to your body by giving it enough sleep and tender loving care. Make sure you put lots of love into your body with nourishing, healthy foods and by choosing healthier meals when you eat out or dine in.

Breathe and prioritise your mental health

Start the year strong by putting your mental wellbeing at the top of your to-do list. Take a deep breath in and a long breath out, and then:

1. Do a mental wellbeing assessment to find out which areas of your wellbeing may need a little help.
2. Set mental wellbeing goals for yourself, like being mindful every day and getting enough sleep.
3. Spend more time in nature and combine it with a physical activity like mountain biking. Added bonus? Mountain biking can boost your memory.
4. Do something you love like listening to music, watching your favourite shows or cooking a healthy meal with people you love.
5. Give back. There's nothing more fulfilling than being kind to others and feeling that you're making a difference in the world.

Bonus tip: focus on your breathing, and let it carry you through the day. Here are a few breathing exercises you can try.

Finally, a message from a Discovery colleague's toddler:

At Discovery, we understand that living a healthier lifestyle has its rewards and challenges. That's why your Discovery Health plan gives you access to Discovery Vitality. Plus, you can join now and only pay in month four.

Take a look at what it means to live life with Vitality: