As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm cup of tea to soothe the soul and ward off the winter chill.  But did you know that tea is more than just a comforting beverage?

Tea is also packed with a variety of health benefits that can help you stay healthy and happy all winter long.  Here we reveal 3 great benefits of drinking tea and share the best types of tea to choose from.

1. Immunity Support

One of the most significant benefits of drinking tea in the winter is its ability to boost and support your immunity.

Many teas, such as green, black, and white teas, are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from free radicals that can damage your cells and weaken your immune system.

Additionally, some teas, such as peppermint, ginger, echinacea and elderberry tea, have been shown to have immune-boosting properties that can help ward off colds and flu.

2. Stress Reduction

Winter can be a stressful time, with the shorter days, gloomy weather and colder climate all taking their toll.

Fortunately, drinking tea can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Chamomile tea, for example, is known for its calming effects and can help reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Lavender tea is another great option for relaxation, as it can help calm the mind and promote feelings of tranquility.

3.  Digestive Support

Winter can also be a time of overindulgence, with heartier meals, comfort foods and calorie-rich treats that can be tempting.

The good news is that when you drink tea you can aid healthy digestion which is especially important during the colder months when people tend to be less active and the body needs that extra support.

Peppermint tea, for example, can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce bloating, while ginger tea can help promote digestion and relieve nausea.

Varieties Of Tea To Look Out For

There are many different types of tea on the market, each with their unique benefits.

Green tea, for example, is packed with antioxidants and can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss.  Interestingly, cultures who drink green tea daily tend to have the lowest incidences of obesity.

Black tea is rich in an amino acid called L-Theanine, which can help you relax, concentrate and stay mentally alert. 

Herbal teas, like chamomile, lavender, and peppermint, are caffeine-free and can help promote relaxation and relieve stress.

Also, keep in mind that one of the easiest ways to prepare tea if you don't have tea leaves handy is to simply add a couple of drops of essential oils into a mug of hot water.  Great options after dinner include ginger, peppermint or zen gest essential oils, or try lemon first thing in the morning to help support healthy digestion.

The Main Take Away

Drinking tea in the winter time is a great way to support your overall immunity, reduce stress and to promote healthy digestion at a time when your diet is typically more dense than the warmer months.

With so many different types of tea available on the market, you will easy find a variety that is perfect for you if you experiment with some different choices at your local health food store or supermarket.

Make drinking tea a daily ritual either first thing in the morning to help activate digestion, or after your night time meal to support the digestive process while you sleep.  Of course, you can also enjoy tea for relaxation or focus at any time throughout the day as a wonderful, antioxidant-rich health tonic too!

Tolman Self Care.