Winter can be challenging for maintaining our wellness routines, but as women who’ve navigated five decades or more, we know that consistency is everything. The key is adapting our approach to honor both the season and our bodies.

Moving Through the Cold

The winter months shouldn’t mean hibernation. Indoor activities like water aerobics at your local community center offer joint-friendly movement that’s especially beneficial if you’re managing arthritis. Many of us find that stepping classes or dance-based workouts—think Afrobeat or line dancing—keep us engaged while building strength and cardiovascular health. YouTube has countless free options you can do right in your living room.

Mall walking groups are having a renaissance, and for good reason. You get climate control, social connection, and steady movement all at once. Check with your local mall about early morning walking clubs.

Nourishing from Within

Winter is prime time for those warming, nutrient-dense meals our mothers and grandmothers perfected. Slow-cooked collard greens, sweet potato stews, and bean soups aren’t just comfort food—they’re powerhouses of vitamins and fiber. Add in winter squashes and root vegetables for meals that support immune health.

Stay mindful of Vitamin D levels. Many of us are already at higher risk for deficiency, and winter sunlight scarcity compounds this. Talk to your doctor about supplementation and get your levels checked.

Protecting Your Skin

Our melanin-rich skin needs specific care in winter. The cold air outside and heated air inside can lead to ashiness and dryness. Layer your moisture: after bathing, apply your products to damp skin, starting with a hydrating toner, followed by a rich body butter or oil. Shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil are still queens for a reason.

Don’t forget your scalp, especially if you’re natural or transitioning. Winter dryness can affect hair health. Deep conditioning treatments and protective styles can help maintain moisture and minimize breakage.

Staying Connected to Wellness

Winter can bring seasonal blues, and we’re not always taught to prioritize our mental health. But at this stage of life, we’ve earned the right to put ourselves first. Whether it’s morning meditation, journaling, or simply sitting with a good cup of tea and nothing on your to-do list, these moments matter.

Consider joining or forming a wellness accountability group with friends. A simple text chain where you share your daily wins—”Got my 10-minute walk in!” or “Drank my water today!”—can make all the difference.