Winter Self-Care Ideas: How to Stay Warm, Grounded, and Recharged

Winter makes life feel slower because you get into the holiday spirit of decorating, figuring out plans for the upcoming year, and a chance to spend time with loved ones.  

Use this time to reflect, be intentional, and rest.

Use this post as a guide on how you can gift yourself self-care this winter so you can feel recharged, balanced and can do things at your own pace.

Create a Cozy Environment

• Set the mood this winter.  Simply incorporate some of these items into your winter routine.
• Light candles in your space and dim the lights. 
• Surround your favorite spots of comfort with pillows and blankets.
• Keep your favorite warm drink nearby (hot apple cider, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea)
• Allow yourself to wear comfortable clothes.

Care for Your Mental Well-Being

Your mental health matters.  Less sunlight can shift your mood.  Here’s what you can do have mental clarity and rest you mind.

• Limit the amount of time you scroll through your phone.
• Take time to restore your balance (meditate, do yoga, pause).
• Journal your thoughts.
• Talk to others about how you are feeling instead of holding your emotions inside.

Stay Active (In a Way That Feels Good)

Move your body daily.  A few things you can do that boost your mood are:

• Stretching throughout your day
• Go for a walk
• Take a workout class
• Doing a 10-minute workout video

Doing these activities can benefit your health long-term.

Nourish Your Body

During the winter you want to nourish your body. 

Consider:

• Making homemade soups and stews
• Keep hydrated
• Incorporating fruits that are in season
• Enjoy a comforting meal without negative self-talk

Create balance but don’t restrict yourself.

Prioritize Rest and Sleep

Sleep is essential.

Winter is the time when things slow down because people are getting ready for the New Year.   Naturally allow your body to rest by:

• Turning off the television when you are about to fall asleep.
• Limit the amount of time you use your phone.
• Create a calming space to sleep at night (essential oils, soft music, meditating)

Be intentional with the habits you create.

Get Natural Light When You Can

Even though it is winter, make sure you feel the sun.

• Spend time in the sun by stepping out for a few minutes.
• Open the window in the daylight if you are in your space.
• Step outside and walk for a few moments even if you are at work.

Sunlight can boost your mood and calm your soul.

Stay Connected

Don’t isolate yourself.  Build connections. 

• Join a club with people that share the same interests.
• Attend virtual meetings
• Check-in with loved ones
• Express your emotions in a healthy manner (journaling)

You don’t have to do everything alone.

Do Things That Bring You Joy

Do things that uplift you.  Don’t get into a winter rut.   Take time to:

• Read that book you’ve been holding off
• Listen to music
• Watch movies or shows that catch your interest
• Try something new

Take on things that spark your soul to love life.

Give Yourself Grace

Be patient with yourself and realize you don’t have to be busy 24/7 to live life.

• Enjoy your slower days
• Focus on the present
• Celebrate you
• Allow flexibility

Overview of Self-Care For the Winter

Self-care during the winter is showing up for yourself.  This is the time to recharge.  Give yourself a chance to reconnect to who you are.

Be intentional with your time.

Surround yourself with a support system that keeps you at peace.  Enjoy the slow moments, so you realize what truly matters.