As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many of us (not me, lol) long for summer’s warmth and comfort. However, winter can be magical if we approach it with the right mindset and practice self-care to nurture our physical and emotional well-being.
While I’m not a massive fan of summer, the winter blues always hit me pretty hard. So, let’s chat about the importance of winter self-care, and I’ll give you a few ideas for making the most of this season — along with a complimentary Winter Self-Care Printable.
These winter self-care activities can help you make the most of the season, maintain your well-being, and find joy in the colder months. Choose the ones that resonate most with you and incorporate them into your winter routine to stay happy and healthy.
Let’s start by embracing the concept of “hygge.” Pronounced “hoo-gah,” this Danish term encapsulates the essence of coziness, contentment, and well-being during the colder months.
Hygge encourages us to create a warm and inviting atmosphere at home, filled with soft blankets, flickering candles, and warm beverages. If you set the mood with a cup of hot cocoa, a good book, and your favorite blanket, then you’ll instantly feel more relaxed and at ease.
Winter Self-Care Activities:
1. Digital Detox: Take a break from screens and social media to reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Cozy Wardrobe: Wear warm, comfortable clothing like soft sweaters, fuzzy socks, and thermal leggings. Staying cozy and well-dressed can make you feel more content and relaxed during the winter.
3. Hot Beverage Variety: Expand your hot beverage options beyond the usual tea and coffee. Try different herbal teas, hot apple cider, or spiced hot chocolate recipes to add variety and warmth to your winter routine.
Obviously, if hot beverages aren’t your jam, reach for a different cold beverage.
4. Winter Gardening: If you have indoor plants, spend time tending to them and bringing a touch of green indoors.
5. Creative Expression: Embrace your creative side during the winter by taking up crafting, painting, writing, or any other artistic hobby you enjoy. Engaging in creative pursuits can be therapeutic and fulfilling.
6. Winter Reading List: Create a list of books you’d like to read. So, curl up by the fire or under a cozy blanket and immerse yourself in captivating stories or informative literature.
7. Nature Walks: Don’t let the cold weather deter you from enjoying the outdoors. Once you’ve bundled up (if applicable to your area forecast), go for a brisk walk in nature to appreciate the beauty of winter landscapes and breathe in the crisp, fresh air.
8. Self-Reflection and Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal to jot down your thoughts, reflections, and daily gratitudes. This practice can help you stay mindful of the positive aspects of your life and promote a sense of contentment.
9. Establish a Skincare Routine: Cold, dry air can wreak havoc on your skin. Use a rich, hydrating moisturizer, and consider adding a humidifier to your home to maintain proper indoor humidity levels.
Additionally, exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells and promote a healthy complexion. However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate, leading to dryness and irritation.
Furthermore, don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can still be strong even in winter.
10. Bath Time Bliss: Set aside dedicated time for a relaxing bath. Choose a time when you can fully unwind without any interruptions. Run a warm bath with your preferred bath products, such as bath salts, bath bombs, or essential oils.
Create a cozy atmosphere in your bathroom by lighting candles, dimming the lights, and using soft towels or bathrobes. While in the bath, focus on self-care and relaxation. Take deep breaths, soak, and let the warm water ease any tension in your body. After your bath, moisturize your skin and enjoy some quiet time.
11. Candlelight: Incorporating candles into your winter self-care routine can enhance the cozy and soothing atmosphere, whether you’re enjoying music, taking a bath, or engaging in any other self-care activity. Candlelight adds a touch of magic to your winter self-care, creating a sense of comfort and relaxation.
However, please practice candle safety by never leaving candles unattended and placing them on heat-resistant surfaces to prevent accidents.
12. Music: Pick a moment during your day to enjoy some music without distractions. Choose music that suits your mood and preferences. It can be soothing, uplifting, or any genre that brings you joy. Create a comfortable and cozy listening space, whether it’s by your fireplace, in your favorite chair, or wrapped in a warm blanket. Close your eyes and let the music transport you. You can use this time to reflect, meditate, or lose yourself in the melodies. Allow the music to uplift your spirits and soothe your soul.
Extra Activities:
These may not be on the printable, but I believe they are essential to our well-being year-round: sleep and connection.
Prioritize Sleep: Winter’s shorter days can disrupt your circadian rhythm and lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness. Prioritize sleep by creating a cozy bedtime routine. Dim the lights in your home during the evening hours, avoid screens before bedtime, and invest in soft, comfortable bedding. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Socialize and Connect: It’s common for people to withdraw during the winter months, but maintaining social connections is essential for your mental health. Make an effort to spend time with friends and family through virtual gatherings or in-person meetups. Engaging in social activities can provide warmth and support during the cold winter months.
In summary, winter self-care is about embracing the season’s unique charms and nurturing your physical and emotional well-being. By practicing hygge, staying active, nourishing your body, pampering your skin, prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness, socializing, setting goals, and giving back, you can make the most of the winter months and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalized when spring arrives.
Embrace the chill, and remember that winter can be a time of personal growth, connection, and self-discovery.
Other Winter Printables:
Reasons to Love Winter Print
Winter Bucket List
Evergreen Lodge Winter Printable
Winter Watercolor Gift Tags
Winter Inspired I Spy Game
The Winter-Self Care Printable
This self-care printable is sized at 8×10. I hope you can put this printable reminder to good use this winter. Be sure to share it with a friend.
*Please Note: All printables and downloads designed by Live Laugh Rowe are for PERSONAL USE ONLY. Please do not alter the file or claim it as your own. The resale of electronic files and printed versions is prohibited.
PRINT OR DOWNLOAD THE WINTER SELF-CARE PRINTABLE
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Barbara says
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFe84U__kt8
You might love this video by Sissel “Slow Down”.
I love it!
Kelly Rowe says
Love this! Thanks so much for sharing it with me. It’s beautiful!