20 Ways To Winter-Proof Your Wellness Routine

“Joburg winters are very chilly; most nights you’re scrambling for every blanket in the house. That’s why 1000TC Egyptian cotton cover sets are a no-brainer. Soft, breathable and luxurious enough to make getting into bed feel like a nice warm win.”

– Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini, Editor

“If damp windows, condensation and musty air become regular winter guests in your home, this appliance pulls double duty. The MeacoDry Arete Two combines powerful moisture control with medical-grade HEPA filtration that captures 99.97% of airborne particles, including allergens, dust and mould spores.”

– Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

“I see your electric blanket and raise you this electric THROW blanket. Climb in under this super soft fleece blanket with six temperature settings, a rapid heat-up function, machine-washable and an automatic shut-off for safety.”

– Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor

“Lightweight sunscreen in winter is absolutely essential since you don’t really think you need to apply it anyway, so it’d better absorb itself fast. This milky concoction from Skin Functional is a knock-out. Listen: no white cast, ok? AND, it’s mixed with functional ingredients like Centella Asiatica, Liquorice Root, and Camellia Sinensis to soothe inflammation and provide antioxidant support against environmental stressors. I think it’s responsible for my glowing skin.”

– Michelle October, Features Editor

This supplement stack combines key nutrients and wellness-focused ingredients designed to support normal immune function and overall well-being. Consider it a practical addition to a balanced diet, especially during a season when your body may need a little extra support.

“These incredibly cosy and super plush sherpa slippers are soft as a cloud. The flexible sole makes them perfect for padding around the house. Whether you’re making your morning coffee or binge-watching your favourite series, your feet will thank you for the upgrade.”

– Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini, Editor

“Attention, fellow mums: if you come home to that unmistakable barking cough or the latest winter bug has made its way through the house, this is one of the non-medicine tools I reach for first. My children often struggle with respiratory issues, so a humidifier gets plenty of use during the colder months. I’ve found the cool mist helps add soothing moisture to the air, especially when coughs and congestion are keeping everyone awake.”

– Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

“Vitamin E, aloe vera and tissue oils combine to pimp the petroleum jelly formula. I use this for very dry areas like my eyes and lips.”

– Michelle October, Features Editor

“Like most home cooks, I’d been eyeing a certain famous French cookware brand’s cast iron casserole for years, but my budget could never quite stretch that far. So, there I sadly found myself, relegated to the casserole-pot-less community – until this budget-friendly gem came along. I happily put my dreams of owning that luxury pot on hold (maybe one day!) and bought myself one of these. With its generous size, multi-stovetop compatibility and oven-safety up to 200°C, it has quickly become the hardest worker in my kitchen. Just yesterday, I used it to make a slow-cooked short rib ragu! From stews and soups to slow-cooked meats and bolognese, I’ve done it all in this pot.”

– Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor

Cold weather and hot showers aren’t always kind to skin. This nourishing shower oil is specially formulated for dry and irritated skin, helping to cleanse without stripping away essential moisture. If winter leaves your skin feeling tight, itchy or uncomfortable, this is the kind of product that can make a noticeable difference.

“This zesty vitamin C shot has become something of a winter fridge staple for me, thanks to its punchy citrus flavour and warming kick from the cayenne pepper. While it’s no cure for the common cold, it’s a refreshing way to boost your vitamin C intake and feels especially satisfying when you’re feeling a little under the weather.”

– Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

“I have always said that niacinamide is the hero we need in these streets. And Mr Price agrees. So they put it in this lush, thick, overnight mask to repair dry, rough skin while fighting damage.”

– Michelle October, Features Editor

“My decades-old gown was in serious need of an upgrade (honestly, whose isn’t?). But I just never thought to do it because, well, it’s a gown, you can’t reinvent the wheel, it does the job. Then I visited my parents, who had recently moved from Durban to the Cape. Suffering through a very different winter experience than KZN, they had swiftly upgraded their cold-weather wardrobe – and this gown was one of their new additions. The moment I felt it, I knew I had to get one STAT. It is plush, cosy, warm, and enveloping – everything you want in a gown. Plus, it has a hood, so you can completely cocoon yourself and escape the winter chill.”

– Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor

“When winter aches start making themselves known, this locally made heat pack delivers simple but effective comfort. Filled with flaxseed and organic Cape lavender, it can be heated in the microwave for warmth or chilled for cold therapy. It’s particularly handy for easing stiffness, muscle tension, cramps and everyday niggles.”

– Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

Hydration often takes a back seat in winter. A reliable insulated mug keeps tea, coffee or hot water warmer for longer, making it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day.

“My cast-iron pots get plenty of use in winter and so does my blender for soups, but my ultimate cold-weather mom hack is a slow cooker. I’ll throw in garlic, onions, stock, vegetables and whatever protein we’re having for dinner, then let it do the hard work while I get on with my day. Sure, the smell of a slow-cooked meal bubbling away for hours can be slightly torturous when you’re hungry, but coming back to tender, pull-apart food with minimal effort feels like a win every single time.”

– Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor

“The only problem with this product is that it’s not bottomless. A thick (but not stuffy) moisturiser for when the air sucks the living daylights out of you.”

– Michelle October, Features Editor

“I’m sure most of us have been clinging to our clunky, greige family heirloom oil heaters for years. But let me introduce you to this sleek, Scandi game-changer! It looks like a premium tech tower, plugs in with zero setup and takes the harsh edge off a freezing room in 15 minutes flat. Because it’s fanless, it’s completely silent. Best of all? The app lets me adjust the temperature without ever leaving my cosy duvet. A total winter winner.”

– Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor

“I don’t load up on vitamin C when I’m sick. I take these because they have actual immune support, like garlic, probiotics, zinc and vitamin D. I take two tabs three times a day at the onset of sniffles, and I’m back to normal within a day. No lies.”

– Michelle October, Features Editor

Winter is a great time to do deep inner work. This book doesn’t shy away from systemic issues that impact our mental health, and holds your hand while you learn to unlearn harmful patterns.