Here in Portugal, we are at the beginning of winter. Our living conditions are very minimal and eco-friendly; we live on one solar panel and no electricity. Being a warm-blooded Asian, harsh winters has never suited me. I have always chosen to head back to Asia at this time of they year to bask in the mild winters free from harsh winds. While I'm planning my escape route back home in a week or so, in the meantime, I have to function in the cold.

So for all of you bracing yourself for Asia’s cold weather in the next month, here are a few of my favourite tips on how to fight the winter blues to prepare for the cold weather ahead.
 

1. Use the hot water bottle
I know it’s relatively old fashioned but I love this: there is something very comforting about taking a hot water bottle to bed. Place it at your feet as heat escapes from this part of the body.
 

2. Bring on the ginger tea
I’m always sniffling at some point or another during the winter months. The remedy I use for this is another old school favourite. I put lots of ginger in boiling water, a squeeze of lemon and honey to taste. It seems to do the trick every time. It’s the perfect thing to take in the morning, especially when you feel a sniffle coming along.

3. Wrap up
A woolen scarf around your neck is a must. Always keep your chest covered and always wear a good hat.

4. Go for a steam
Take a long steam once or twice a week to heat your body and help clear your lungs. The north Europeans have been doing this for decades. The sauna and steam room are both a great place to heat up the body and get your circulation going.
 

5. Pump it up
Vitamin C, vitamin C, vitamin C! At this time of the year making sure your body is taking in enough vitamin C is very important. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables are needed.

6. Get active
Make sure your blood and body is constantly moving. While we are more inclined to rest and stay away from the cold during the winter months, if we don’t move we’ll reduce the circulation and cause all sorts of other problems to arise. Make sure to take brisk walks, runs, go to a yoga class (not hot yoga!) or head to the gym. Make a conscious effort to incorporate exercise into your life.

While I continue to complain about the winter weather, there are of course some wonderful moments about spending time in the cold here as well. Curling up in front of a log fire, roasting chestnuts, sipping hot chocolate are just a few of my favourite winter moments.