3 Tips for Embracing Winter Time
If you’re from the Midwest like we are, or other places where you get a true winter, you are no stranger to the feelings that come up during what seem to be endless winters. Cold temperatures, cloudy skies, and darkness for more of the day than we’d like can all lead to feeling a little bit blah. For many of us, this combination of wintertime factors can really send us into a sadness that’s hard to get out of. It’s really important to try and find happiness and wellness throughout these winter months. Here are a few ways to embrace winter rather than entirely wishing it away.
You have to make time to get out in the sunlight. Even on your busiest days, it’s important to step outside and be in the natural light, especially when it’s actually sunny outside! There is scientific evidence that shows being in the early morning sun when it’s the brightest helps our brains to release endorphins, which always makes us feel better. Also, being in the sun gives us the Vitamin D our bodies need and we often don’t get enough of.
Find little pockets of time just for yourself. Often in the winter months we’re all stuck inside stacked on top of each other like sardines. Your kids are likely crawling all over you, your partner wants to cuddle up. Before you know it, you’re touched out and about to scream. Take small breaks throughout your day just to be alone. Linger a little longer in the warm, steamy shower. Plop the kids in front of a movie and sit in your room to read for a little while under a blanket. Take ten minutes to light a candle and just breathe in the calming smells. Any little thing you do for yourself will help you feel refreshed and ready for the rest of the day.
Connect with your support system on a regular basis. As moms, we need to take the time to step away from our kids and our work and just have some fun. Adult conversations that are playful and light always bring happiness and joy back to our lives. Go a step beyond and plan a fun activity to do that’s adults only: a weekend ski trip, a dinner date, or going to a painting class.
Winter can be a difficult time for many of us but you are not alone. Finding ways to connect with others and taking time for yourself is important not only in the winter but throughout the rest of the year as well.
