02/08/2026
Winter Wellness Tips
Stay warm, stay vibrant. Winter wellness isn't just about avoiding the flu; it's about shifting your mindset from "surviving" to "thriving" during the colder months.
There's no pretending we're not knee-deep in winter these day... we are literally still buried in snow mounds, the weather maliciously gets colder by the day, there is no relief in site. So let's invert the paradigm... instead of hiding from the winter and resenting it mightily, here are some tips to be your best winter self!
1. Boost Your Natural Defenses
Immune-boosting nutrients like Vitamin C (citrus, bell peppers), Zinc (seeds, legumes), and Probiotics (yogurt, sauerkraut) to support your gut, where 70% of your immune system lives, are not only beneficial for your body; they actually make you feel better as you consume them.
Instead of the heavy carb comfort foods we all seem to revery to come cold weather, try smoothies (see below); yogurt with berries, quinoa bowls. And of course, the age old remedy of hot soups (chicken is great, but veggies soups can be just as restorative) and leafy greens (kale, spinach, swiss chard) sauteed or as salads make great system boosters.
With limited sunlight, many experience a drop in Vitamin D. Experts suggest a daily supplement or increased intake of fatty fish and eggs to support bone health and mood.
2. Mindful Movement & Rest
If it's too cold for a run, try indoor workouts like yoga or a 30-day winter wellness challenge.
Biologically, winter is a time for restoration. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep to allow your body to repair and keep your immune defenses strong.
Get Outside (Briefly): Even a 10-minute walk in natural light can boost serotonin levels and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
3. Cozy Connection & Self-Care
Winter can feel isolating. Make an effort to schedule a phone call or join a community event.
The Power of "Soft" Wellness: Practice grace with yourself. Not every day needs to be high-productivity; sometimes wellness looks like a warm book, a cozy blanket, and a slow-paced morning.
* * * * *
In short, take it one "cozy" step at a time. Whether it’s swapping a sports drink for an herbal tea or basking in the last ten minutes of afternoon sun, these small shifts build the resilience you need to head into spring feeling refreshed rather than depleted!
Smoothies to Warm You
from the Inside Out
Warm smoothies are a comforting, nutrient-dense alternative to icy drinks when temperatures drop. They incorporate seasonal, immune-boosting ingredients like ginger, turmeric and other spices, and citrus, and taste amazing. Maintaining internal warmth helps prevent the sluggishness and low energy often associated with a "cold" winter diet.
Here are some ideas:
Warm Banana Bread Smoothie
This smoothie tastes like warm banana bread in a cup and is very filling!
Ingredients: 1 cup hot water, 1 ripe banana, 1/4 cup chopped raw walnuts, 2-3 pitted Medjool dates, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 inch k**b of fresh ginger.
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until creamy.
Oaty Chocolate Smoothie
A comforting, chocolatey option with a hearty richness!
Ingredients: 1 cup almond milk (warmed), 1/4 cup oats, 1/2 ripe banana, 1 tbsp cacao powder, 6 almonds, 1 tsp chia seeds, 1 tbsp cold water.
Instructions: Lightly warm the almond milk (about 30 seconds in the microwave). Add all ingredients to the blender and blend for 1 minute.
Refreshing and comforting at the same time!
Ingredients: 1 cup warm coconut milk, 1/4 cup coconut yogurt, 1/4 cup brewed black tea, 1 large orange (peeled), 2 dates, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder, and 1/4 tsp vanilla, 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions: Blend until smooth.
Last call for The Detox Supper Club Dinner
at Pinwheel (Sat., February 28)
Since tickets for our for our "feast of well-being" went live last week, we've sold nearly all of the available seats. We have 3 seats remaining, so if you want a seat at our (cozy communal) table for an exceptional night, act now!
Whether you're committed to a plant-based diet and healthy beverages, or simply want to enjoy a sumptuous 4-course meal that will leave you feeling energized and nourished, you'll find what you're looking for at our Chef's Detox Supper Club dinner, catered by award-winning plant-forward chef Emily Amarnick (mrspleasant.net), with alcohol-free wine/cocktail pairings by Wallace Dry Goods (wallacedrygoods.com).
Start the new year at this festive event with favorite companions (and make new friends) in Pinwheel's cozy and intimate new cafe space where you'll enjoy your meal family style.
Your evening will include:
• Aperitifs and Grazing Board & Lentil Walnut Pate with Crudites
• Curried Squash Soup
• Choice of Creamy Mushroom Galette or Vegetables Paella
• Sides: Gingery-Garlic Green Beans & Farro with Swiss Chard and Grapefruit Vinaigrette
• Dessert: Citrus Crumble
• Non-Alcoholic Beverage Pairings with each course
• Selection of Tea and Coffee beverages
The entire meal will be plant-based and gluten-free!
You will also be entertained by a live instrumental jazz duo. This event is limited to 16 seats.
Other Upcoming Events at Pinwheel
Wednesday, February 18 (7:30 PM 9:00 pm)
Mad Poet's Society at Pinwheel: Monthly Poetry Reading (open to all)
Click here for more info and bios of participating poets (https://pinwheelprovisions.com/events)
Tuesday, February 24 (7-9 pm)
Monthly Food & Film Trivia Night (open to all)
Cinema-phile? Foodie? Trivia Maven? Grab some friends and test out your trivia smarts while enjoying classic pub snacks & cafe drinks in our comfy space, Also, BYOB!
Wednesday, February 25 (5:30-9 pm )- SOLD OUT
Autana Taste of Tradition Pop Up at Pinwheel
Mark your calendars! Levi and María-José Hernández, owners and operators of Autana Authentic Venezuelan Food formerly in Ardmore will be serving up their critically acclaimed family recipe empanadas, arepas, and other Venezuelan fare at Pinwheel. Ticketed event.
Sunday, March 1: Stargazy Sunday Roast- (ticketed event)
Details coming soon!
Best Way to Spend a COOOOLD
Winter Day/Evening?
Warm up with us! Enjoy a delicious meal at Pinwheel and Pair it with an acclaimed BMFI film (or tote your meal into the theater with you!)
Hours of Operation:
Monday: 10am-7pm
Tuesday: 10am-7pm
Wednesday: closed
Thursday: 10am-7pm
Friday: 10am-8pm
Saturday: 10am-8pm
Sunday: closed
Location: 822 W.Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr PA 19010
(on the property of the Bryn Mawr Film Institute)
Free Parking Behind the BMFI Building (access via Summit Grove Ave.)
