Winter has many wonderful moments. Snow on the trees, quiet mornings, brisk walks. But as the cold drags on, it can sometimes cause a drop in mood with less sunlight and fewer outings. The good news? There are simple ways to feel better and regain energy.
Spending time outside in winter can still be beneficial, even on colder days. Sunlight plays an important role in maintaining energy levels, and getting a bit of natural light can make a noticeable difference. When the sun is out, try to enjoy it in small ways. A short walk through the garden, a few minutes on the porch, or sitting near a bright window can all help. Even brief moments of fresh air and light can lift your mood and clear your mind.
Movement can have a positive effect on both mood and energy. It helps the body release natural, feel-good chemicals and supports overall well-being. That said, exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be helpful. Simple, regular movement can be enough. You might stretch while watching television, or take a walk down the hallway or around the block.
It’s easy to wish winter away and count the days until the sun stays out longer and the snow melts. Pull yourself back to the present. Notice the warmth of your tea. The sound of the radio. The light coming through the window. Focus on what you are looking forward to during the current week.
Winter days can blur together. One way to stop that is to keep a simple rhythm. Wake up around the same time. Eat meals regularly. Set aside moments you look forward to, like a favorite show, a puzzle, or afternoon tea. Having a rhythm provides a quiet sense of stability.
Winter is a great time to start a new hobby. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to knit. Or perhaps, you want to try your hand at painting. These small projects give your mind something enjoyable to focus on. They also give the day a sense of purpose.
The colder months can also be ideal to experiment with cooking your favorite hearty recipes. In-season ingredients like squash, eggplant, turnips, and garlic can add both flavor and nutritional value to winter meals.
One of the hardest parts of winter is being apart from friends and family. As a temporary solution, try virtual communication platforms like Zoom and Skype. Even picking up the phone to call a friend can brighten a cold winter day.
What matters most is the connection. Those small moments can brighten your day and make it feel warmer.
Winter doesn’t have to feel like something to simply get through. With a few thoughtful adjustments, it can become a season to refocus and take care of yourself in ways that feel meaningful. By maintaining simple routines, and finding small moments of enjoyment, it’s possible to feel more balanced and energized throughout the colder months.