As we approach the end of February, surrounded by snow in Northern Minnesota, some self-care is definitely desired. Living here all of my life I have learned to embrace the different seasons, including our long cold winters. However, without fail, I always seem to hit a wall late February. The blizzard that blasted through these parts last week didn’t help. Nor do the reports of balmy temperatures from family and friends who live in warmer regions. I find myself longing for spring, which typically doesn’t appear until mid April around here.
I decided to compile a small winter self-care list to start implementing slowly over the next few weeks. Many of these things are natural rhythms to my normal routine. Others, I need to stretch myself a bit to get them done. For some reason, writing goals out where they can be visually seen helps. So here goes, my top ten winter self care tips.
My top ten winter self-care tips
- Outdoor Light– As temperatures finally rise above freezing it is time to get outside and soak in some sun, even if it is just for a few minutes. After months of hibernating in the house, it is so refreshing to walk around the block or sit on the deck for a few minutes letting the sun beat on my face.
- Journaling/Gratitude– Grumbling comes easy, gratitude takes effort. Writing down one thing I’m grateful for in my daily planner starts off the day right. Also, I have taken up starting a journal to write out deeper feelings and thoughts. Again, there is something cathartic about writing things out.
- Warm baths with epsom salts and lavender essential oil- The magnesium and lavender are very calming to soak in before bedtime. It is as simple as measuring out 1 cup of epsom salts and a few drops of essential oil. Pair it with some soft instrumental music and soft lighting and you’re sure to sleep well.
- Bake!- This last year I have taken up the hobby of baking from freshly milled grains. It is so rewarding milling the organic wheat berries and experimenting with all sorts of baked goods. This winter I have made homemade donuts, bagels, crepes, muffins, biscuits and rolls just to name a few. Freshly milled baked breads are delicious and nutritious. They make the house smell amazing too!
- Nurture people ,plants and pets– Being indoors provides plenty of opportunities for spending quality time with a beloved pet or person. It’s also rewarding to nurture growing something indoors, especially when the outdoors is covered with frosty snow.
- Cursive writing– One of my sons has taken up cursive writing and it truly is a work of art. The act of handwriting involves more cognitive engagement than typing and has been linked to improved mental health. This calming activity can reduce stress and anxiety and thus increase positive thinking. As someone with a background in psychology I find the research on this topic fascinating. As I write out scriptures or journal I intentionally write in cursive to reap these benefits. My son wrote me the most beautiful Valentine card in cursive this year. I will cherish it forever.
- Soft light– Turning on a soft lamp, battery operated candle or string lights creates a warm cozy glow on dark days. Similarly, lighting a beeswax candle or diffusing essential oils in a diffuser with a soft light helps to bring calm and relaxation to your space.
- Nourishing soups and stews– This one really should be at the top of my list for the long cold months of winter. Assembling a pot of nourishing soup, stew or chili goes a long way to bring comfort on these winter days. I make it a goal to make at least two pots of homemade soup each week for my family.
- Fresh Flowers– A while back I was with my grown nephew at a grocery store. While we passed the flower aisle he made the statement of “who actually buys these flowers?” With a smile on my face I told him that “your auntie does”. Fresh flowers are a luxury for me, but I do splurge occasionally towards the end of winter to bring a little extra life and beauty to my home.
- Movement– I am fortunate to have a mini work out room in our home with weights and an elliptical machine. To break things up a little bit I incorporate swimming at the local pool until I can get outside more regularly. Finding community ed exercise classes are a great way to keep movement fun.
There you have it, my top 10 winter self-care list. I have never actually sat down and really thought about this before. In doing so, I was able to come up with the activities that really nourish me through this season. These small rhythms remind me that winter isn’t something to survive-it’s something to soften into. I encourage you to take some time to come up with your own list. I would love to know what others are doing to rejuvenate at this time as well.
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