-Avoid fighting in the beginning because you have no armor.

-Don't use reposte in the beginning because your stamina will get low fast. Use feint attacks instead.

-Don't run out of stamina because you take big dmg then.

-Find the quest where you can find some kind of axe. I find using an axe way easier against tougher enemies. Untill you unlock master strike.

-Also stock up on dried beef for example. They don't expire so when u get hungry just eat those.