While the winter months can bring excitement for some, it also comes with challenges. Implementing self-care strategies helps you to ensure you take care of your well-being this season! Sometimes it’s hard to know where to start, so continue reading to better understand what these challenges might look like and strategies to support! 

What might some of these challenges look like?  

• Adjusting to shorter days  

• Coping with colder weather 

• Fluctuations in mood and energy 

• Finding it harder to feel positive and stay motivated 

• Challenges maintaining connections and staying social 

• Feeling less connected with others  

It's important to remember that you're not alone in feeling this way. Taking care of our mental health and well-being is crucial, especially during challenging times. One effective way to do so is by incorporating self-care practices into your routine to bring warmth to the winter months. Here’s a list of examples to ensure you support your well-being: 

Winter Proof Your Home 

When the cold seeps in, it’s not just your body that feels the chill—your mental well-being can also take a hit. Sealing gaps and draft stoppers can create a warm and cozy environment. Rearranging your furniture to sit closer to heat sources or areas can also enhance feelings of comfort and even boost your mood.  

DIY Light Therapy 

A lack of sunlight can significantly impact our mental health, often leading to feelings of sadness, fatigue, or even Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). A sunlight lamp can help counteract these effects by simulating natural daylight. This can improve your mood and regulate your body’s internal clock, reducing lethargy and enhancing focus. 

Staying active

While it may feel difficult to get up, staying active triggers our body’s natural “feel good” chemicals. Figuring out what works best for you is a good place to start! This can look like indoor activities such as yoga or stretching or even a short walk around the block can help boost our mood. 

Maintaining Social Connections 

Staying connected is important. Checking in on those around you by video calling, texting or even attending virtual events can help you feel supported and reduce feelings of isolation. Bringing a friend along on a walk is also a great idea. 

At TCC's Calgary location, we facilitate monthly community events to bring like-minded people together and make new connections. If you're in Calgary, follow our socials to stay updated on the next event!

Focusing on Your Sleep 

Good sleep is essential for mental health. Try establishing a nighttime routine to help keep things consistent and balanced. Creating a nighttime routine that is best for you also helps to create enjoyment, relaxation and increase motivation. 

Mindfulness, Meditation  and Journalling

Take time to relax and focus on the present. Meditation or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve emotional resilience.  

Journaling can be a helpful tool for working through emotions, reflecting on your day and having a healthy outlet to express your thoughts. This is also a great chance to practice gratitude, find time for personal growth and connect with yourself! 

Warm Beverages 

Preparing a hot drink like spiced cider, turmeric lattes, or hot cocoa can be more than just a way to stay warm—it can also be a calming ritual that fosters mindfulness. Measuring ingredients, stirring slowly, or savoring the aroma can bring yourself into the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety. Sipping your warm drink can also provide a sense of grounding and comfort

Solo Activities 

Winter is a great time to try new hobbies or indulge in the things you enjoy. Whether this involves reading, visiting a new café or knitting it is important to take the time for yourself and what you enjoy.  

Therapy

If you notice that you might need some extra support or someone to talk to, therapy is a good option to talk about those feelings that come up during the winter months.  

At TCC, we have a diverse team of therapists to help support! Get started with our therapist matching tool! 

Conclusion:

Winter can be a challenging season, however, implementing one or multiple of these strategies can help you take care of your mental well-being. Having these tools in your toolkit can help combat these negative feelings and make you feel more energized!  

Want to read more about how you can take care of yourself this winter and holiday season? Check out TCC’s recent blog posts on Minding Mental Health and Grounding Techniques.  
 

References: 

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/two-takes-on-depression/201912/self-care-tips-during-winter 

https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/seasonal-affective-disorder-winter-blues-and-self-care-tips-to-get-ahead-of-symptoms/2023/11