Ways to Feel Better This Winter
Make winter a wellness wonderland. Fresh air and daylight help boost vitamin D, energy levels and mental clarity, and chase away the winter blues.
Many of us experience mood and energy dips during the winter months. Changes in daylight exposure affect brain chemistry, and seasonal shifts can disrupt our sleep patterns, so we’re left feeling sluggish, low or out of sync.
Winter blues are a real thing and if you’re feeling the winter slump creep in, take our self-care tips to feel lighter and brighter. There are gentle, natural ways to improve your mood and turn the frosty season into something warm and wonderful:
Let the sunshine in! Try to get natural light exposure when possible, even when indoors – near a window, with a light box, taking breaks outdoors, or even getting away for a brief trip to sunnier climes. Move your favourite chair in front of a window so you can bask in sunlight while curled up in a soft blanket.
Move your body in whatever way works for you – whether that’s a walk, stretching at your work desk, or doing chair exercises. Be intentional about getting enough physical activity. Movement feeds the mind, body and soul.
Find a gratitude practice that fits your style – some people journal, others prefer mental notes, and some express appreciation directly to others. Even noticing one positive thing each day can help shift your mindset over time.
Laugh and get social. Be intentional about staying connected to friends. Winter can be isolating, so get together for potlucks, play board games or make it a movie night. Feeling connected with your people is linked with mental health and well-being.
Find ways to help others, even with small gestures of support. This might mean mentoring when you can, offering kind words, sharing knowledge, or simply being present for someone.
Bring extra comfort to your space. Add some framed photos of good times with friends and family to warm your heart. Adjust lighting where possible, play calming sounds and even add a shot of colour with a couple of textured throw cushions or a bright throw to amp up the energy.
Plan ahead and have something to look forward to. Research shows that simply anticipating something makes us happier. So plan that massage, concert or an overnight getaway at our all-inclusive spa.
Get involved in a hobby or volunteer work. While the couch and Netflix are so inviting, it’s better to throw yourself into a hobby or into efforts within your community. Engaging your mind and putting yourself toward a purpose that matters to you will brighten the darkest days of winter.
Take a deep breath. Give yourself permission to go slower during the winter. You don’t want to wallow, but it’s okay to feel the flow of different seasons. Sleep in. Go for a relaxing massage. Soak in a scented bath. Bring in candles or essential oils – the scent of lavender is associated with calmness. It’s linked to lowering blood pressure, calming the nervous system and even improving mood.
Be gentle in your thoughts. Identify negative thought patterns without judgment. Some people benefit from mindfulness, others from talking things through, and some prefer other approaches. If you’re struggling significantly, know that seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
