Getting ahead of the season with advice from Dr Raj Arora, GP and Wentworth Lifestyle Partner

There is something about the first signs of autumn that makes us instinctively start preparing for winter.

The evenings draw in, the mornings feel cooler and suddenly we are reaching for a heavier coat and thinking about making home feel warm and welcoming again. But while we prepare our homes and wardrobes for the changing season, it is easy to forget to prepare ourselves.

So, rather than waiting until winter is fully upon us, we spoke to Wentworth Lifestyle Partner, Dr Raj Arora, GP about the simple things she recommends doing now to help us feel prepared for the months ahead.

Nothing complicated. Nothing overwhelming. Just five small, sensible steps that can make a difference.

Put your flu vaccination on the list

Flu is more than simply having a few days feeling under the weather. For some people, it can lead to serious illness, particularly those who are older, pregnant or living with certain long-term health conditions.

Dr Raj recommends checking your eligibility for the NHS flu vaccination and, if you are eligible, arranging it rather than leaving it until later in the season.

For most eligible adults, vaccinations begin from 1 October 2026, while some groups, including pregnant women, can be vaccinated earlier.

A little preparation now can mean one less thing to think about when winter really arrives.

Think about vitamin D

There is a reason we can feel a little different as the days become shorter.

From around October through to early March, the UK sunshine isn't strong enough for our bodies to make sufficient vitamin D from sunlight. The NHS advises adults to consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D during the autumn and winter months.

It is an easy one to overlook because vitamin D isn't something we necessarily think about when we think about winter health.

But as we move into darker mornings and earlier evenings, it is worth putting it on your seasonal checklist.

Keep moving – and make the most of daylight

When the weather turns colder and the evenings arrive earlier, it is tempting to spend more time indoors.

But keeping active doesn't have to mean committing to a new fitness regime. A walk during daylight hours, getting outside at lunchtime or simply making movement part of your everyday routine can all help us stay active through the colder months.

And there is something to be said for getting outside while there is still daylight.

Winter can naturally change our routines, so making a little time for fresh air and movement now can help establish habits that carry us through the season.

Think less about exercise and more about keeping your body moving and your mind connected to the outside world.

Give your skin a little extra attention

Our skin has to cope with quite a change in environment during winter.

Cold air outside, wind, and central heating indoors can all leave skin feeling drier and more sensitive. It is therefore a good time to simplify rather than complicate your skincare routine.

Gentle cleansing, regular moisturising and keeping your skin well hydrated can help support the skin barrier as temperatures drop. 

And one summer habit worth keeping….. SPF!  The sun may no longer feel particularly strong, but UV exposure doesn't disappear simply because summer is over.

Give your medicine cupboard a little autumn edit

There is nothing quite like discovering you have run out of something you need when you are already feeling unwell.

Before winter arrives, take a few minutes to check what you have at home. Look at expiry dates, make sure you have essentials such as a thermometer and suitable pain relief, and check that any regular medication is up to date.

If you have repeat prescriptions, don't wait until you have taken the very last dose before arranging your next prescription.

It is one of those small jobs that takes only a few minutes – but could save you considerably more time later.

A little preparation goes a long way

Winter doesn't need to feel like something we simply endure.

By making a few small preparations now, we can enter the season feeling a little more organised, a little more comfortable and ready to enjoy everything that winter brings.

As Dr Raj reminds us, looking after our health isn't necessarily about making dramatic changes. Often, it is the small things we do consistently that matter most.

So, as you change your wardrobe, prepare your home and embrace the new season, perhaps give yourself a little winter preparation too.