Embrace Winter: Winter Wellbeing Guide

As the sparkle of Christmas fades and New Year's becomes a distant memory, the cold, dark months can make it tough to find the energy and motivation for self-care and to do things to help your overall wellbeing.

But we’re here to help you embrace winter and nurture your mind, body and spirit with some tips to guide you through the season.

1. Embrace Hygge

Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, this Danish concept is all about creating a warm, comforting feeling to find some contentment - more a state of mind and being than something 'to do'. But in order to create a space for hygge, take some time to light candles, get cosy, grab a blanket, savour in small and simple pleasures, such as your favourite cup of tea and a book, and relish in the quiet moments to help you find some slow and steady in your day.

Try a weighted blanket for extra comfort.

2. Step Into The Light

Winter can be the toughest time of all to find motivation. With the days at their shortest, there is less exposure to light, but this is what helps to carry us through the dark and cold days.

Our bodies need to see the daylight to support our natural rhythms and moods. So wrap up warm and get outside. Arrange to meet a friend for a coffee and walk and talk your way to those lighter days. Keep your indoor space well-lit with cosy lighting and open curtains or blinds during the day to allow natural light in.

Try taking your morning cup of tea outside.

3. Prioritise Sleep

There’s nothing quite like a good night’s sleep to help you feel at your best. Make your bedroom a real sanctuary and ensure you get plenty of rest. Banish your phone from your bedroom, invest in an old-school alarm clock, try some calming rituals before bed, and spend some time getting cosy. For more tips, check out our article on how to unwind before bedtime.

Try listening to a guided meditation before you go to sleep.

4. Limit Screen Time

A good habit to try and adopt for a new year is limiting your screen time. Most phones can track time spent, which can help see where you’re losing precious hours. Limiting your screen time may help you with your focus and productivity and even protect your eyes.

Try reducing your screen time each week.

5. Write a Joy FULL List

If you’re struggling to think of ways to pick yourself up this season, write a list of all the things that give you joy. This is a powerful tool to help you promote gratitude and present-moment living and provide you with a focus. You may even surprise yourself with some simple ways to bring joy into your life this winter.

Try listing three things each day that bring you joy.

6. Stay Connected

It’s easy to hibernate during the winter months, especially with some many of us now working from home. It’s important to combat feelings of isolation by staying connected, so schedule a cup of tea and a chat, join a class with a friend (strength in numbers), or take your laptop and work for a coffee shop.

Try starting a book club or a supper club with friends.

7. Clear the Clutter

Clearing physical clutter can work wonders for freeing up space in your mind. Dedicate a rainy weekend to decluttering your home, donating items you no longer need, and organising your space to foster a sense of calm and clarity.

Try a digital declutter and cleanse your devices of old emails and duplicate photos.

8. Walk and Talk

Despite the cold, getting outside for a brisk walk or engaging in winter sports can invigorate your body and mind. Nature offers a refreshing change of scenery and a dose of mood-boosting natural light. Buddy up with a friend or colleague and make the most of your lunchtimes.

Try turning your walk into a mindful walk - here’s how.

9. Nourish Yourself

It can be all too easy to reach for those leftover chocolates and treats that have been around since Christmas, but nourishing yourself with nutritious food will give you the boost you need. Create refreshing smoothies and juices, whip up some energy-boosting snacks, and blend up some soupy goodness with all those hearty vegetables.

Try your hand at some of our delicious recipes.

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10. Read Up

Another healthy swap for all that screen time is to pick up a book. Cosy up with a good book and your favourite cup of tea. Or, why not choose an audiobook, pop those headphones in and listen while you get some fresh air? Or why not start a book club?

Try one of the books on our wellbeing book recommendations.

Embrace Winter - Winter Wellbeing Guide