Times Of TIU

Writer: Zyla H.
Editor: Jonathan S.

Introduction
Winter is magical—think sparkling snow, cozy blankets, and mugs of steaming hot chocolate. But while we enjoy the season’s charm, our bodies are quietly working overtime to deal with the cold. Shorter days, icy winds, and dry indoor air all play tricks on us, affecting circulation, immunity, energy, and even our skin. Understanding how winter impacts the body can turn this chilly season from a challenge into a chance to thrive. With the right habits, you can stay warm, healthy, and energized, no matter how low the thermometer drops.

Body Temperature and Circulation
Have you ever stepped outside and felt like your toes might fall off? That’s your body going into “survival mode.” To keep your core warm, blood vessels near the skin tighten, sending less blood to your fingers and toes—hence, icy extremities. Shivering is another clever trick: your muscles vibrate rapidly to generate heat. But there’s a catch—your heart works harder, and blood pressure can rise slightly, especially for older adults. The solution? Layer up like a fashion-forward snowman, sip something warm, and keep moving. Even small activities like stretching or walking around can help your blood flow and keep the shivers at bay.

Immune System and Illness
Winter is prime time for colds and flu, and it’s not just coincidence. Dry, chilly air makes it easier for viruses to sneak in through your nose and throat. And when everyone’s huddled indoors, germs spread faster than gossip at a holiday party. But don’t panic—your immune system has tricks too. Eating colorful fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, and washing your hands frequently gives your defenses a boost. Even a short daily walk or a bit of indoor exercise helps keep your immune system on high alert. Think of it as winter-proofing your body!

Sunlight and Vitamin D
Ever feel sleepy, irritable, or just “off” in the winter? Blame the lack of sunlight. Short days mean less vitamin D, which is crucial for energy, strong bones, and a healthy immune system. Low levels can leave you feeling sluggish and achy. Luckily, a little sun goes a long way. Catch those brief winter rays whenever possible, or add vitamin D–rich foods like salmon, eggs, and fortified dairy to your meals. Supplements are another option if sunlight is scarce. Think of vitamin D as your personal winter sunshine—you can’t always see it, but your body definitely notices when it’s missing.

Skin and Energy
Winter can turn even the healthiest skin dry like the Sahara Desert. Dry air zaps moisture, causing chapped lips, flaky skin, and irritation. At the same time, your body burns extra calories just to stay warm, leaving you tired faster. The fix? Moisturize like it’s your favorite hobby, wear cozy scarves and gloves, and stay active to keep energy levels up. Drinking plenty of water and enjoying nutrient-packed meals also helps your skin glow and keeps fatigue at bay. With the right habits, you can stay warm, hydrated, and energized—even when the wind is howling outside.

Conclusion
Winter may test our bodies in many ways—from cold hands and shivering muscles to dry skin and vitamin D shortages—but it doesn’t have to be miserable. By understanding how your body reacts and adopting healthy habits, you can enjoy the season fully. Bundle up, stay active, eat well, moisturize, and soak up sunlight whenever you can. With a little preparation, winter can be not only manageable but truly enjoyable, keeping you healthy, happy, and ready for whatever the season throws your way.