The winter season can be a challenging time to stay healthy and feel at your best. People often feel lazy and do not want to get out of their cosy blankets during winter. This is because the temperature outside is much colder, affecting your spirit to stay active. However, staying active and energised is crucial even during the winter.

During the colder months, it becomes essential for women to prioritise their health by staying active and energised. Women are more likely to experience various gynaecological health problems like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections.

These problems, if overlooked, can cause severe complications that can become problematic in later life. “The sudden drop in the temperature can affect your immune system, which can make them more susceptible to these health issues. Ensure that you stay warm and dry, as it is crucial to prevent the risk of UTIs and yeast infections,” warns Dr. Seema Joshi, Sr. Consultant Paediatrician & Adolescent Counsellor, Ankura Hospitals, Pune.

Winter Woes: How winter can freeze your health

Individuals are advised to be persistent and determined to follow their workout regime. If possible, you can even try going for a walk outdoors during the day when the sun is out. According to Dr. Manish Pendse, Senior Consultant Physician & Diabetologist, Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, “This can also help you get your daily intake of vitamin D.”

Make sure that you wear warm clothes while stepping outdoors or going for a walk, as it can increase the risk of falling ill. “If you do not want to step outdoors due to colder temperatures, then you can try doing indoor physical activities or exercises,” adds Dr. Pendse.

Simple tips to stay active and energetic during the cold season

1. Stay hydrated: Not drinking enough water can cause dehydration. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to help keep you hydrated throughout the day. This can help flush out harmful bacteria from the urinary tract while maintaining your intimate health.
2. Try to be active: This can include activities like push-ups, jumping jacks, yoga, meditation, deep-breathing exercises, stretching, and even dancing. Set a proper routine, and at least dedicate 30 to 40 minutes from your daily schedule towards being physically active.
3. Eat a healthy diet: Along with regular exercise, individuals are advised to eat well-balanced meals. Your meals should have essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, iron, and protein. Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep you hydrated. These lifestyle modifications can help you stay fit and maintain your energy levels during the cold season.
4. Avoid wearing tight clothes: Avoid wearing clothes, particularly underwear, that are too tight or cause discomfort. Opt for soft and breathable fabrics to maintain ventilation. The cold temperature can make it difficult to function while making your body stiff.
5. Exercise whenever you get time: It negatively affects your motivation to stay active or do any type of exercise. But staying active can be rewarding, particularly in winter, as it can help strengthen your immunity and improve blood circulation throughout the body.
6. Meditate: One can try physical activities or exercises like running, walking, jogging, cycling, yoga, swimming, or meditation. Over time, it can help reduce your stress levels and promote overall well-being.
7. Sleep well: Lifestyle modifications like eating healthy and well-balanced foods, aiming for 7 to 8 hours of sleep, and managing your stress levels can be helpful.

Also Read: Winter Woes: How chilly nights can mess up your sleep and health? Check these 12 tips to be safe

Also Read: Ditch the blanket, not your workouts: 5 simple tips to manage weight this winter season

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Pneumonia can be a quite serious, especially for the kids in the winters. It’s really important to recognise the symptoms of pneumonia and treat them properply and quickly. Some common signs of pneumonia are a cough, a high fever, difficulty or fast breathing, chest pain, feeling weak, lips or nails that look blue, not wanting to eat, and feeling really tired. If your child has any of these symptoms, don’t wait—consult the doctor soon.                                     

Here are some easy tips to keep your child safe:

1. Keep them warm: 

Make sure they are dressed in warm clothing, including hats, ear coverings, and warm socks.

2. Allow the sunlight: 

Open your curtains and let some sunlight in, as it gives vitamin D, which helps the immune system.

3. Use a humidifier: 

If the air feels dry, a humidifier can help add some moisture to the room.

4. Offer a healthy diet: 

Serve them nutritious foods like green veggies, seasonal fruits, and warm soups.

5. Try natural remedies:

 A mix of honey and ginger can soothe a sore throat and cough. Tulsi leaves and milk with turmeric can help their immunity.

6. Steaming:

 Steaming can clear their airways, which may prevent colds and coughs.

7. Avoid cold foods:

 It’s best not to give them ice cream or cold drinks.

(This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by qualified medical professionals.)

The Power Division on Friday announced a power relief scheme — called the “Bijli Sahulat” package — offering reduced electricity rates to consumers to encourage electricity use during the low-demand winter season.

On Thursday, the division also announced on X that the Nati­­onal Electric Power Regu­latory Authority (Nepra) notified an Rs1.28 per unit decrease in electricity charges due to the adjustment of fuel prices in September.

Meanwhile, in September, Nepra allowed an Rs1.743 per unit increase in electricity rates across the country for three months — Sept to Nov — to provide Rs43.23 billion funds to ex-Wap­da distribution companies.

According to a statement issued by the Power Division on Friday, the reduced rates will be offered to domestic, commercial and industrial consumers from December 2024 until February 2025, “in an effort to manage seasonal electricity demand and drive economic growth”.

A flat rate of Rs26.07 per unit “will be offered for any additional electricity demand above the benchmark historical average”, the statement read. “This will allow industries, commercial, general services and households to save significantly compared to the prevailing tariffs.”

Furthermore, the new rates will only apply to 25pc units over the reference benchmark, with all incremental sales over 25pc charged at existing rates notified by the government.

The statement added that industries consuming additional electricity beyond the historical benchmark can avail an 18-37 per cent discount on prevailing power rates.

“The government is committed to fostering increased industrial and commercial activity as a driver of economic growth,” the statement added.

“Households will also benefit from the discounted rate for additional winter electricity consumption, making it an attractive option for heating and other energy needs that would otherwise rely on gas.”

The Power Division, per the statement, will continue introducing new schemes to maximise electricity usage and support Pakistan’s economic growth.

Power Minister Awais Khan Leghari took to X to announce the package, which he termed the “Government of Pakistan’s important initiative”.

He wrote, “A special discount on the use of excess electricity will not only reduce electricity costs but also boost the economy.”

Industries will run smoothly: PM

While addressing an Iqbal Day ceremony at the PM House in Islamabad today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the electricity rates package, stating that it aimed to foster industrial and commercial activity in the country.

“For December, January and February, the government has decided to reduce electricity rates for those who use additional units,” the PM said in his speech. “From December 2024 to February 2025, these discounts will be reflected in the bills.

“There will be savings of between Rs11.42 per unit and Rs26 per unit during these three months,” he said, adding that there are different slabs for consumers who use additional power.

PM Shehbaz said that for industries, “There will be savings of Rs5.72-Rs15 per unit”.

The premier went on to say that the reduced industrial rates will encourage economic opportunity and help industry run smoothly.

“Industries can expect savings of between 18-37pc based on current rates.”

He also said that commercial consumers will experience savings of between Rs13.40 per unit and Rs22 per unit. “There will be savings of Rs34-Rs47 on incremental use,” he said.

“This will ensure that industries and business will run smoothly and our economy will be strong.”