Staying Healthy This Winter
Published on 01 November 2025 03:54 PM
Staying Healthy This Winter
As the days get shorter and we head towards winter, it’s easy to want to curl up under a blanket until spring. But staying healthy over winter doesn’t have to feel like hard work, just a few small things can keep our bodies strong and our spirits high.
Staying active
Taking a short walk outside or even a few stretches at home can help to keep your joints supple and boost your mood.
There are some great gentle exercise classes here in Islington that you might like to try - including Healthy Generations classes and Better Multi-Sports Get Togethers which take place at Sobell Leisure Centre and Finsbury Leisure Centre every week.
Activities and classes also take place in Islington’s Libraries and local community centres - from Indoor Bowling at Mildmay Community Centre, to Line Dancing at Peel Institute or an Art Class at Whittington Community Centre.
There are also lots of wonderful walks and activities taking place in Islington’s Parks. See what’s on with The Garden Classroom who organise regular walks and community gardening sessions.
Don’t know where to start?
If you are thinking about trying a new activity, but don’t know where to start – Age UK Islington produces a quarterly guide introducing a selection of activities and groups taking place. You can print it at home, or pick up a copy from an Islington library, GP, community centre or from Age UK Islington’s office at Manor Gardens.
It’s designed to be an introduction to what’s going on, so not to be overwhelming!
Eating a hot meal
Eating a hot meal at least once a day is good for keeping warm and well but some people don’t like eating alone so it’s worth finding out about any lunch clubs or social clubs.
There are food hubs in Islington where you can buy a bag of fresh produce cheaply and regular lunches at local community centres – including Brickworks Community Centre (north Islington), Elizabeth House (east Islington), St Lukes Community Centre (south Islington) and Jean’s Café at Jean Stokes Community Centre (south west Islington).
Keeping warm
Our bodies tend to regulate temperature less efficiently as we age so it’s always a good idea to wear several thin layers of clothes rather than one thick item as the layers trap the heat better and keep our body heat in.
Protecting ourselves against illness
Viruses spread more easily in colder months because we tend to spend more time indoors and as we age, our immune system becomes less efficient at protecting us.
Make sure to take up any free vaccines that you are eligible for, and don’t hesitate to contact your GP or local Pharmacist if you’re not feeling well. You can call the free NHS national vaccine helpline on 119.
According to NHS England, the 2025 winter season has already seen a surge in the number of flu cases which highlights the importance of taking up your free vaccinations if you are eligible.
It’s more important than ever to take extra steps to protect yourself, whether that’s getting vaccinated, staying warm, or seeking support early if you feel unwell. These small actions can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing.
How to get Flu and Covid vaccines
Check the NHS website for details of who is eligible, where you can get vaccinated, including walk-in centres and how to book.
There are also the following drop-ins where those people who are eligible can get a flu vaccination without the need to book:
- Monday 24th November 11-3pm at Evergreen Centre
- Monday 1st December 11-3pm at Central Islington library, 2 Fieldway Cres, London N5 1PF
Further information