Comfort & Joy: Gentle Support for Winter Wellness

Natural Winter Wellness Remedies

As I write this, it is now December, which means we are now in the Christmas holiday season. For many, this season is a season of spending, but for me, it is Advent season. Do not get me wrong, I have had my years of consumer-itis, but over time, I kept asking myself, "to what end?", which led me to re-evaluate the meaning of this season.

Symptoms of consumer-itis often include rushing from place to place, losing patience with others, exhaustion, irritability (sometimes bordering on full Scrooge-like behavior), low bank account funds, stress, overconsumption of sweets, and a weakened immune system. The good news is that you do not need an expensive treatment for any of this. In fact, the answer is not to spend more, but to step back. Stop striving, stop consuming; instead, take time to appreciate what you already have. Look for simple ways to show kindness to others. Focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love found in our Lord Jesus Christ. Let go of the distractions that crowd this time of year and embrace the quiet anticipation of His coming.

“And he said to them, 'Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'” - Luke 12:15

What Is Advent?

Advent, meaning “coming” or “arrival,” is a season set apart for us to reflect on both comings of Christ: His humble birth in Bethlehem and His future, glorious return as King. As we look back to the birth of the Messiah, we also look forward with hope to His promised return. Advent invites us to prepare our hearts and minds through repentance and by drawing near to the Lord.

Advent is not a countdown to material gifts; it is a holy season to step away from the distractions and consumerism of this world and prepare our hearts for the greatest gift ever given: our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” - 1 Timothy 6:6-8

Wellness Support Through this Advent Season

When we slow down and step away from the frantic pace of consumer-itis, our bodies and minds still need care, perhaps even more so as we adjust to this significant change. The winter months bring shorter days, colder weather, and an increase in respiratory infections. Supporting our wellness through winter does not require complicated remedies or expensive supplements. As we simplify our lives, we can make efforts to support our wellness with simple, gentle, effective remedies.

Herbs for Winter Wellness

• Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Rich in deep purple anthocyanins, elderberry helps your immune system respond effectively to winter challenges. It can help shorten the duration and severity of colds and flu. Many enjoy keeping elderberry syrup in the fridge all winter, and taking a spoonful daily, increasing to three times daily at the first sign of sniffles.

• Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Is an adaptogen that helps your body handle stress while supporting balanced immune function and reducing inflammation. Tulsi is gentle enough to use daily.

• Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia/purpurea):  A popular immune-supportive herb that can be used both daily and at the first signs of illness. Echinacea encourages healthy immune function by supporting macrophage and T-cell activity, helping the body respond more effectively to viral and bacterial challenges. It is also rich in polysaccharides that offer protection from viral or bacterial infections. Make a tea blend for daily use, and keep a tincture or throat spray on hand to use at the first signs of a winter illness.

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Warming, circulation-boosting, and antimicrobial. Ginger supports immune function while also easing digestive upset. Ginger tea with honey and lemon is both supportive and comforting on a cold December day.

• Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum/cassia): A familiar, warming spice that does more than flavor your cookies. Cinnamon supports circulation, can help stabilize blood sugar levels, and has antimicrobial properties that provide gentle, ongoing protection throughout the winter months.

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): A powerful respiratory ally, thyme contains compounds like thymol that are strongly antimicrobial and loosen mucus. When congestion settles in or a cough takes hold, thyme helps clear mucus and fights the infection. Add it to herbal steams, brew it as a tea, or infuse it in honey. Thyme is particularly helpful for those stubborn respiratory infections that linger.

• Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus): An aromatic evergreen herb that stimulates circulation, supports mental clarity, and has antimicrobial properties. Rosemary also contains compounds that support the respiratory system and help open airways. The fresh, invigorating scent can help counter the mental fatigue that sometimes accompanies grey winter days.

Essential Oils for Winter Wellness

• Frankincense (Boswellia spp.): How lovely it is that frankincense supports us during this season. This resinous oil supports a balanced immune response, especially during times of stress. It is also calming to the nervous system and encourages deep, steady breathing. Diffuse frankincense during your quiet time or Advent devotions.

• Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis): Bright and uplifting, sweet orange helps counter the gloominess of these grey winter days. It is gently antimicrobial and mood-supportive. The cheerful aroma reminds us to keep our focus on the hope we have in the Lord.

• Lemon (Citrus limon): Bright, clean, and uplifting. Lemon essential oil is antimicrobial and helps purify the air while supporting immune function. Its fresh, cheerful aroma combats winter doldrums and brings a sense of much-needed energy.

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris ct linalool): This chemotype of thyme is gentler than standard thyme, yet it brings the best of the respiratory support of thyme with the relaxing effects of linalool. This soothing oil offers antimicrobial and immune supportive properties.

• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.): When congestion hits, eucalyptus opens airways, thins mucus, and directly supports respiratory immune response. Add a single drop to a steam inhalation or in the corner of the shower before taking a steamy hot shower to help relieve congestion. Avoid eucalyptus with children under the age of 10, and use caution when using eucalyptus oils with those who have pre-existing respiratory issues; do a quick sniff test of the cap and evaluate for chest tightness.

• Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis): With its crisp, woodsy aroma, juniper berry essential oil is both invigorating and comforting. It supports the body's natural detoxification processes, supports the immune system, and has antimicrobial properties. Diffuse in common areas to freshen the air, enhance energy levels, and reduce stress.

• Siberian Fir (Abies sibirica): This fresh, evergreen oil captures the essence of a winter forest. Rich in compounds that support respiratory function, Siberian fir helps open airways and clear congestion while its antimicrobial properties support wellness. The aroma is relaxing and supportive.

Recipes for Winter Wellness

These recipes are not meant to be time-consuming projects that add more to your plate; instead, they are simple ways to care for the wellness of yourself and your family during Advent and throughout the winter. They offer small moments to slow down, breathe, give thanks, and turn your attention back to the Lord.

Advent Stovetop Simmer Pot

• 2 sprigs of rosemary

• 1 sprig of thyme

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3 whole cloves

• peel from one orange

• 1-2 drops juniper berry or Siberian fir essential oil

Fill a saucepan about three-quarters full of water and add all the ingredients to it. Bring to a simmer over low heat, or place on a woodstove. Allow fragrance to fill the air, adding more water or herbs as needed. The warm, seasonal aromas help create a peaceful, refreshing atmosphere

Winter Immune Tea

• 3 parts dried tulsi

• 1 part dried ginger chips

• 1 part cinnamon chips

• ½ part dried orange or lemon peel

Combine ingredients and store in an airtight jar. Use 2-3 tsp per cup of hot water. Steep, covered, for 15-20 minutes. Strain and add honey and lemon slice to taste. Drink 1-2 cups daily throughout the season.

Rosemary-Thyme Honey

• 1 Tbsp dried rosemary, or 2 Tbsp fresh

• 1 Tbsp dried thyme, or 2 Tbsp fresh

• 1 cup raw honey

Warm the honey gently over low heat, using a double boiler, just to the point that it starts to soften/liquify. Remove from the heat and add the herbs. Cover and allow to infuse for a few days. Optionally turning the jar over occasionally to "mix". You can strain out the herbs or leave them in. Use this herbal honey over yogurt, toast, oatmeal, in your tea, or just take a spoonful to soothe a cough or reduce congestion.

Winter Throat Spray

• 1/4 cup of dried echinacea flowers or roots

• 1/4 cup dried elderberries, crushed

• 2 Tbsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried ginger chips

• 1 Tbsp raw honey

• ~ 1.5 cups vodka or brandy

Place all of the herbs into a pint-sized jar, pour alcohol over the herbs, ensuring that they are fully submerged, yet leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Lid the jar and allow it to infuse for 4 weeks, with occasional gentle shaking. Strain out the herbs with a fine mesh strainer and/or cheesecloth. Mix with honey, and pour into labeled mister/atomizer spray bottles.

Spray directly to the back of the mouth/throat as needed for relief of a sore throat or post-nasal drip.

Spiced Elderberry Syrup

• 1 cup dried elderberries, or 2 cups frozen elderberries

• 2 cups water

• 2 tsp powdered ginger

• 2 tsp powdered cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp powdered cloves

• honey (equal amount to strained liquid for long-term storage, or less for quicker use)

Combine elderberries, water, and spices in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half. Mash the berries. Let cool slightly, then strain through cheesecloth, squeezing to extract all the juice. Measure the liquid and add an equal amount of honey (or to taste). Store in the refrigerator.

For adults, take 1 Tbsp daily for prevention, or 1 Tbsp three times daily when actively fighting something off. For children, reduce the dose to 1 tsp.

Winter Diffuser Blend

• 3 drops Siberian fir

• 2 drops sweet orange

• 1 drop frankincense

Diffuse in the evening to create a peaceful atmosphere that supports the respiratory system and promotes relaxation.

Decongestant Chest Rub (for congestion) 2.5% dilution

• 1 oz carrier oil (jojoba or sweet almond oil, optionally infused with ginger and/or rosemary)

• 6 drops Siberian fir

• 5 drops thyme ct linalool

• 2 drops eucalyptus (omit for children under the age of 10)

Mix oils in a small jar. Rub gently onto the chest and upper back when congested. The warming, opening sensation helps breathing while the oils work their magic. Not for use on children under 10; use half the essential oil drops for children 10 and older.

Winter Wellness Aromatherapy Inhaler

• 5 drops Siberian fir

• 4 drops juniper berry

• 4 drops lemon

• 2 drops thyme ct linalool

Add drops to the cotton wick of a blank personal aromatherapy inhaler. Carry with you and inhale as needed for immune support, especially when you do need to venture out into crowded spaces.

Final Thoughts

Advent is a season of preparation, anticipation, and hope. As we step away from the frenzy of consumerism and focus our hearts on Christ's coming, we can also care for our physical bodies in simple, gentle ways. These remedies are not complicated nor expensive; they include common, affordable herbs and essential oils that are readily available. Although some of the recipes may require an extended waiting time, they are all simple to prepare and use.

May this Advent season be one of true rest, genuine peace, and deep joy as you wait with hope for the celebration of our Savior's birth.

"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." - Isaiah 9:2