Self-care is always important, but especially so in the winter season.
In the last few years, I’ve worked to make my self-care routine more purposeful. Self-care often gets a bad rap. It’s looked at as frivolous and unnecessary. Take your bubble baths, manicures, and glasses of wine somewhere else, they say. Well, I say self-care is essential. I’ve been saying this for years and I mean it. During winter, when some experience seasonal depression due to the weather, it’s extra important to be taking special care of your body and mind.
Self-care comes in many different forms and in this article, I’m sharing a bit of a mixed bag. There are six suggestions, composed of self-care for your physical self and your mental health. Say goodbye to “SAD” (seasonal affective disorder) and hello to more mindful moments.
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Finding Ways to Be Mindful With Your Self-Care This Winter
Practice the art of hygge. This particular term is often used in place of “cozy,” so a lot of people consider it a lifestyle. Hygge is more of a feeling. It requires slowing down, being present, and recognizing what brings you contentment. This might mean creating simple rituals for yourself – like wholeheartedly participating in your skincare routine each morning rather than just flying through it because of habit. Or it could just mean simplifying your every day to make time for peace and quiet.
Ingest warm, spice-filled food and beverages. Several studies show that eating a hot meal each day benefits your body, especially in the winter season. Warm foods are easier to digest and they make you feel better. Add a little bit of spice (sweet or savory) to up the warmth factor and allow your muscles to relax as you mindfully eat or drink. Try a warm chai smoothie or chia pudding in the morning or a hot beef stew or coconut curry for dinner.
Enjoy Fika – Have you ever heard of the Swedish coffee break? This concept is especially appealing to me as someone who is self-employed and works from home. After several hours of being glued to my laptop or phone each morning, a break is much-needed. Around 11:30-noon, I grab my mug of coffee or spiced mocha and a delicious snack, and take a moment for myself. This gives me time to rest and rejuvenate my mind and find the energy to get back to my work when my cup is empty and my treat has been thoroughly enjoyed.
Create a comforting environment – I have always enjoyed working amongst noise (soothing music playing or a crowded cafΓ©). Being in a townhome with thin walls means plenty of noise, but it’s inconsistent. I like to turn on my space heater, light a sweet candle, and put on my headphones with either some kind of jazz/lo-fi or ambience. It helps me concentrate better on my work because I’m more comfortable. Sometimes I swap out my old desk chair for the armchair in the corner of my office and wrap a fuzzy blanket around myself for extra coziness. When I’m comfortable, I’m more productive.
Meditate daily – If you think meditation isn’t for you, it’s quite possible you haven’t tried the right kind yet. Meditation is something everyone can benefit from and it comes in lots of different forms. You can meditate while taking a walk, cleaning the house, riding public transportation, or falling asleep. I’ve been using the Headspace app for probably seven years now and it has been life-changing. I love taking a moment in the morning before my work or even while I’m doing dishes midday. I use this app when I’m experiencing serious stress during my work. I also swear by their sleep aids – without them, I don’t think I would ever rest properly at night.
Indulge once in a while – You could “treat yo’self” with a product you’ve been looking at. You might want to take that stereotypical self-care bubble bath. Maybe you need to scoot your plans aside on a weekend to make time for reading or binging your favorite show all day. Whatever it is, indulge sometimes. This isn’t an excuse to be lazy or spend too much money – but you work hard and do a lot every day, so rewarding yourself is important too!
How are you finding ways to practice self-care this winter?
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Lovely says
These are wonderful suggestions! I love the term Fika. I was practicing it though I didn’t know that’s what it is called.
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I was too! Unintentional fika π Now, I want to make it a habit and really be present in that moment with my coffee and pastry. I think it’s so necessary in the middle of a whirlwind day.
LoΓ―ne says
Allowing ourselves to breathe in and out is so important. I hate the stereotypes of self are. Making my nails isnβt going to make me feel better but the depth and the intention I put in my actions might make me feel better. Great article! Iβm going to pour myself a hot cup of coffee right now, to take my moment.X
Stephanie Whitman says
I will say that I do love a good manicure or bubble bath on occasion. Self-care looks different for everyone and it can change depending on the scenario as well! It just depends on what my body and mind really need in that moment. I’m glad you find peace and calm in those coffee moments π
Tom says
I understand the struggle so many people have with justifying the time for self-care, but I agree itβs so important. I try to leave at least one day a week entirely free, to go for a long week and properly read, but even then I find myself eating away trying to catch up on other stuff…
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s a really great way to be intentional with self-care. Reading is definitely my number one form of that, so I set aside at least an hour each evening to completely unplug from everything else and just dive into a book. If I give myself just that, I know my day was a little bit better π
Ali Duke says
I love the idea of just sitting with my tea and a little snack until I have finished them both. Thanks for these ideas.
Stephanie Whitman says
Right? It’s such a simple way to be mindful and present in that moment and I love it. Enjoy each sip of tea and think about the different flavors. Savor chewing each bite of the snack and even count each chomp. Whatever it takes to be right there in that little bubble of calm!
Zoie says
Meditation is a big one that Iβve been meaning to get into, but keep putting off for some reason. Maybe itβs time I finally give it a go!
Stephanie Whitman says
It can be challenging to get into it, but once you practice it for 30 days straight, it becomes a habit. Then it’s not as much of a “I have to” thing as it is an “I GET to” experience. It becomes something that you look forward to!
Sarah says
I admit I was one of those people who used to think self-care was unnecessary but I changed my tune a couple of years ago. These are excellent ways to delve into that self-care during winter. I love curling up with a warm blanket and a good book, or really any book for that matter but if it turns out to be a good book it’s an added bonus. I really need to give meditation a try one of these days to see if that is something I enjoy and helps.
Stephanie Whitman says
Oh YES! Reading is my number one version of self-care. If I get at least one hour of reading time each day with no distractions, I’m a happy camper. I’m glad you find that to be helpful as well! It’s so neat how self-care looks different for everyone and how it can vary day-to-day.
Alexandra says
Absolutely loved this post! Great ideas! Self-care comes in so many forms and looks so different for everyone. This morning, I decided to treat myself to my favourite Starbucks drink after having a few low days. Thank you for writing this!
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s so encouraging to hear. I’m really glad you enjoyed it π It definitely does look different for everyone. It’s a really personal experience! I’m glad that the Starbucks drink provided a pick-me-up! I hope the rest of your week is much better.
Carrington | Chaos and Coffee says
I loved reading through this! I’ve never heard of Fika before, but I love the thought of taking some time out of the day and just focusing on you and relaxing. I feel like I have been so frazzled lately so I’m going to try this for sure. Xx.
Stephanie Whitman says
Isn’t it fascinating? I was pouring over one article after another when I first learned about it. I find it so intriguing and beneficial. Once it becomes a habit, it’s REALLY special. Just a moment of calm and peace – a time devoted to nothing other than savoring that drink and snack. I love it.
Jenna B says
I might need to implement Fika into my daily routine, that sounds lovely. Thanks for the tips.
Stephanie Whitman says
You absolutely should! I found that when I set my phone in another room, turn on some light jazz, and just sit in the sunlight with my coffee and a bagel, I’m much happier. I count each bite and I look for the different flavor notes in my drink. It helps ground me and brings so much peace.
Lindsey says
Oh I love this! I was doing really well in January, and then have ended up in a massive slump the last few weeks that I’m now fighting to try and get out of, so this was perfect timing. I really need to look into hygge more because it sounds like just what I need. Great post, thanks!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m so sorry to hear that. Sending you virtual hugs and hoping that these coming weeks bring brighter days for you! Hygge is such a great thing to implement. I highly recommend doing some additional research on it. I’ve been loving learning more and more about it and finding ways to incorporate it into my lifestyle.
Anika says
Totally agree that self-care is essential, I never understand why it’s looked down on. Surely making yourself happy should be encouraged? π
Lovely post, and a great reminder to get back into the Headspace app. It’s been way too long since I used it but remember those few moments of mindful meditation being super beneficial!
Anika | chaptersofmay.com
Stephanie Whitman says
It definitely is! I think some people practice it without even realizing they do and they just associate the term with more of the “fluff” options? But even the fluff is necessary for so many people (including myself). Self-care looks different for everyone and it varies day-to-day, but it’s so important to take care of yourself. Everyone is busy, even when they think they’re not (because our minds are always on-the-go). It’s good to take moments to just CHILL. I hope you do get to enjoy Headspace more often. It has literally saved my life in the past and I’m so thankful for it!
Lucy says
A bit of meditating always help! Making a warm environment is such a great form of self care during the winter months x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Stephanie Whitman says
Absolutely! I know some people hate the cold, so a warmer environment is a must. I actually hate the heat, but I still prefer to be cozy. So I’m the nutty one who has my AC blasting but I’m wrapped in a fuzzy blanket haha. Best of both worlds I guess?
Lee says
These are great tips, and i definitely need to focus more on them this year. I’ve been bad at prioritzing self-care and I know i need to be more mindful of scheduling breaks in the day. I like the idea of making a coffee around 11:30 and actually sitting AWAY from your computer to drink it and actually making a break out of it. Im going to try doing that!
Stephanie Whitman says
You are the busiest of all the bees, so if anyone needs a moment to themselves, it’s you! Especially between work AND wedding planning? Girlfriend, take that moment for your coffee and nothing else. Breathe. Sip. And feel that peace. You’ve got this! Xx
Fransic Verso says
I do get a break during work time but I grab a fruit and relax. But, it’s good to enjoy coffee as well. Great ideas.
Stephanie Whitman says
Whatever works best for you. I don’t think the purpose of that is specifically to drink coffee as much as it is to just have a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the day and concentrate on what you’re snacking on/sipping. I think it’s awesome that you have fruit and relax!
Charity says
Self care is always important, but especially during the winter for sure!! Thanks so much for sharing this amazing post!
Stephanie Whitman says
It definitely is. I think a lot of people have a more challenging time taking care of themselves in the winter because the weather tends to make you more sluggish, but hopefully these suggestions will provide some good options!
Britt K says
I love the way that you broke down the concept of Hygge. A big part for me is that I curl up with the puppies first thing in the morning when I have my morning coffee. Sometimes this is all cozy on the couch in my living room, other times I am sitting at our patio table on the deck or even just keeping them close while sitting at my desk if that’s what I’m feeling that day. It’s not about where I am or if I’m cozy, it’s the fact that I slow down and spend that moment just being content with my pups (they bring me peace and happiness).
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s EXACTLY what hygge is! I’ve read a decent amount of articles on this particular concept and for a long time, I just thought it meant a certain kind of lifestyle. But it’s a feeling. It’s a moment. It’s finding appreciation for the little things. I’m so glad you have that with your pups!
Tyler says
I’m so bad at sticking with my self care routine when the winter months set in and the days get shorter, so this is exactly the push that I needed to get back into it! I’d never heard the term “fika” before, but I love the concept and will see if I can fit it into my daily routine.
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m so glad you found this to be motivational. I really do hope you find a way to just bring those elements of peace and calm into your life – even if just for a few moments each day. Fika is a really great option to incorporate!
Rach says
winter is the perfect time for self-care. It’s too cold to go anywhere haha! When we went to Sweden, we actually did Fika and definitely need to do that more here!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I absolutely love that! I’d really like to experience it in Sweden since for them, it’s just part of their everyday. I definitely want to make it more of a priority in my own life. I do it whenever I can!
Merry Sari says
I’m practicing self-care every day π Yesterday I had bad day and I spend few nice hours to sleep, then woke up with good feeling – I just need to recharge! I haven’t heard Fika but this term is SUIT me the best. I always make a coffee around 11 am and enjoy my fave snacks x
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m so sorry to hear that you had a bad day – but I’m proud of you for handling it the way you did. Recharging is really important. I once read something that basically stated, “if we prioritize charging our phones when they’re on low battery, why don’t we do that for ourselves?” It stuck with me!
Tanvi Rastogi says
I have indeed been following Fika, without realizing it. I do want to meditate for longer than 5 minutes π
β₯ tanvii.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Isn’t it interesting how sometimes we incorporate something into our day that’s actually a tradition or event somewhere else? I loved learning more about that. Hey – be proud of yourself for those five minutes of meditation. That’s excellent!
Molly @ Transatlantic Notes says
This is such an encouraging read β I think self-care is vital when it comes to allowing ourselves to heal and monitor our mental, emotional and physical health. Being mindful of all this is key. Thanks for sharing!
Stephanie Whitman says
It definitely is! It looks different for everyone and it can vary from day-to-day, but it’s super important to take care of our bodies and our minds in this way!
Gemma Jayne says
I have been scheduling self-care into my diary because I find that way I will actually do it. I did used to meditate but I havenβt done it for a while so this is something I want to bring back. I also love to schedule βcoffee timeβ into my life- we also do this every week at work with our team and gives us 30 minutes to just talk about anything other than work and it was a brilliant idea xx
Stephanie Whitman says
I schedule self-care as well! I think it’s a great way to go about it. For planning people, seeing it written down somewhere can be really helpful. Being able to check it off as a “task” is satisfying, but it’s also great that we’re prioritizing ourselves. I’m glad you do that. Coffee time with a whole team is so cool! My “team” is just me and my cat (and my husband if he happens to be home from work) haha – but it’s still quite pleasant.
Sarah Lindner says
Winter blues have been serious lately and these are all such good things to help beat them. Need to make doing some of these a priority! xoxo, Sarah
Stephanie Whitman says
I know a lot of people are unlike me and really hate the cold and don’t do well during this season, finding ways to be cozy and calm is really important in those scenarios. I hope you can make yourself a priority in this way!
I'm All Booked Up says
For self care using a face mask is one of our go tos. We also like to a curl up with a good book and a cup of coffee.
Stephanie Whitman says
It’s awesome to see how self-care varies from person to person and depending on the day or situation. Face masks are excellent. Books and coffee are great too! Reading is absolutely my number one form of self-care and I make sure to get an hour of strictly reading time each day!
Morgan Tyner says
I completely hear you on creating a comfortable environment. That is something that took me awhile to make an intention, but once I did – it changed my world. Some things that I do are listened to music tuning out distractions with relaxed and/or motivating music. I make sure natural light is in my space. I love having a plant in the space. And I also keep water next to me to make sure I am staying hydrated and relaxed. Love this post! So many amazing tips!
Stephanie Whitman says
It absolutely makes a huge difference! My office is my happy place and I love being in there now for work or relaxation. I listen to coffee shop jazz or lofi and it’s wonderful. It sounds like you have a really awesome space to be in!
Amanda says
My grandmother is Swedish and while growing up we always had afternoon coffee breaks at her house. I never knew it had a name though #Swedefail
These are all so great and am all for self-care moments, most especially during the dreary winter season. Taking that time for myself is a must!
Stephanie Whitman says
No way! I only learned about the term recently, but I think it’s absolutely beautiful. It’s such a great way to just spend a moment in peace and quiet to disconnect from the world before getting back to work.
WanderlustBeautyDreams says
The winter blues is real! I’m going to try out meditating. I’ve heard it’s such a great way to decompress each day. These are great suggestions for self care!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m thankful for the fact that I adore winter and the cold, otherwise things would be a lot worse on my end – but I still practice these things anyways! Meditation is a game-changer for sure. It helps improve my focus, reduce my stress, and it gets me to a restful state at the end of the day.
TheQuietGirl (Anissa) says
Love this post! I try to take an hour for myself after either doing schoolwork or blog stuff on my laptop for a while. I agree with mediating, it’s been really helpful for me. Also, I love a comfortable environment, I’m always wrapped in a blanket and having lo-fi music playing. Great post! π
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s a great idea! I’m not always the best at taking those breaks, but clearly, I’m trying to include them and make the most of them now!!
rebecca says
these are such great tips, steph! I love the idea of the Swedish coffee break! Wish I could indulge in that during the work day and get away with it π all about self-care though, for sure.
xx rebecca // thecrystalpress.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I think sometimes it’s an option to do that, even at work. Enjoy it on a lunch break, or take two 15-minute breaks rather than one 30-minute break. However you can incorporate it!
Deborah says
These are all such great tips! I’ve been hygge (and the new concept “mys”)-ing it up lately as a part of self-care. I’ve also found journaling to be helpful too!
Stephanie Whitman says
Oooh I don’t know anything about mys so I’ll definitely need to look that up! I’m always intrigued with how people practice self-care.
Neely says
Oh yes! Meditation really helps my SAD. I definitely feel like creating a comforting environment in my home is key too!
Stephanie Whitman says
Meditation is incredibly beneficial. The Headspace app has been part of my daily routine for almost 7 years now!
Em says
all of these suggestions are wonderful! I always like to end the day with an epsom salt bath and a good book. It does wonders for my mental health to just unwind at the end of the day.
Cristina Rosano says
I loved this! These are all great ways for self-care and didn’t know that taking time with a hot drink and time for yourself had a name! Usually, a good face mask and book are my way to treat myself π