Winters can be long, dreary, dark, and downright cold. It is my least favorite season by far. But at age 39, I finally found myself enjoying winter, rather than merely surviving it. So, I wanted to share 12 simple ways you can embrace winter and avoid the winter blues.
1. Go to Bed Early
Our body naturally wants to wind down when the sun goes down. But because of artificial lights, screens, busy schedules, and the hustle culture, we often stay up much later than we should, which leads to sleep disorders, insomnia, irritability, fatigue, and even gastrointestinal issues. This winter, I finally embraced the natural light and my circadian rhythm more to support my sleep, hormones, and mood. I’m surprised how much it helped.
2. Unbusy Schedule
To continue off of the last point, I had to “unbusy” my evening schedule to make going to bed early a priority. This meant saying “no” sometimes to opportunities and invites, even when I felt guilty about it, but being intentional with your time includes your daytime hours–and your evening hours. A slower pace and earlier wind-down time in winter is natural. Embrace it.
3. Exercise Regularly
I thought I was getting enough movement with weighted vest walks and workout videos at home…Then I joined the YMCA and significantly increased my activity level. Instead of just a 30- to 60-minute walk or workout video a few times per week, I started doing a 30-60 minute group fitness class most days, plus I play in the gym or do some activity with my kids. We play Basketball, Pickleball, Volleyball, Walk/Jog on the Track, or use Cardio Equipment together.
I’ve found my body now craves being really active 1-2.5 hours most days. The endorphins and dopamine from exercise, combined with being around happy people who are exercising, greatly improves my mood and further supports a healthy circadian rhythm.
4. Invest in Quality Gear
Saving money to get the cheapest stuff is not usually the best path to being able to enjoy winter. It’s taken me a while to learn, but having quality winter gear can help you better tolerate cold temperatures.
That doesn’t mean you have to go spend thousands of dollars, but a few good items can make a difference.
- Merino Wool is amazing from head to toe. Woolx is my favorite brand.
- Keep your feet warm by wearing thin and thick socks. Look for cotton or wool.
- One warm winter jacket is enough.
- A neck warmer helps on windy days.
- Warmth matters more than looks.
- This Rechargeable Heated Vest was one of my most-used Christmas gifts
5. Enjoy Natural Fibers
Last year was a year of embracing natural fibers for me. I’ve discovered the beauty of wearing natural fibers and snuggling with sheepkins.
Some fabrics I’m wearing more of:
- cotton – like these comfortable mostly cotton athletic joggers with pockets from Amazon
- linen – like these super comfy cotton/linen wide-leg pants from Amazon
- merino wool – like these merino wool undies from Woolly and Woolx
- and these cozy sheepskin slippers combine the beauty of ‘barefoot shoes’ with the soft warmth of sheepskin from East Perry
Some fabrics I’m wearing less of:
- polyester
- nylon
- acrylic
- spandex
- rayon
7. Read, Play Games, Do Puzzles
Part of slowing down and enjoying winter has included more indoor activities like reading, playing games, and putting together jigsaw puzzles.
We got some new games for Christmas and have been checking out board games from a local library to try new ones. It’s free and doesn’t add clutter to the game cupboard.
A few fun games we’ve played repeatedly this winter are:
A City Building Card Game for the Whole Family
- Easy to Learn
- Quick to Play
- 1-4 Players
- Recommended for Ages 10+ (but our 8-year-old plays)
Classic Tile-Laying Strategy Game set in Medieval Times. Fun for both Kids & Adults.
- Ages 7+
- 2-5 Players
- 35 Minute Playtime
Award Winning Family or Adult Strategy Board Game for 2 to 4 Players. Recommended for Ages 8 & Up.
8. Nutritious Baking
Winter is also great for baking. It’s cold outside, so you might as well warm up the oven inside. But I’ve been intentional this winter not to load up on sugar. Sugar suppresses your immune system, and no one enjoys being sick, so that’s why I added nutritious baking to the list.
I’ve started milling my own flour and tried many new recipes to continuously providing warm, healthy, whole grain breads, muffins, and baked goods for my family. It has been a delicious way to enjoy good food–without the unwanted side effects of sugar.
If you want to learn more about milling your own whole grain flour at home, read my Fresh Milled Flour FAQs.
9. Warm Drinks
Who doesn’t crave warm drinks in winter? I’ve indulged in many yummy warm drinks this winter, but again, try to avoid a lot of sugar or other unhealthy ingredients to keep my mood, hormones, and immune system functioning well.
My go-to drinks have been:
- Cuppa mushroom coffee with protein powder and butter, MCT oil, or milk
- Ginger, lemon, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and honey
- dandy blend herbal beverage
- and other teas
10. Encouraging Friends
Who you spend time with matters. Find encouraging friends and make time to connect with them. Go on walks, grab coffee, start a book club, or play card/board games together.
No one walks away from conversations with someone who complains a lot and feels encouraged or uplifted. So be intentional about spending time with people who are encouraging.
11. Play
“Play” has made the list in a few ways. Playing sports at the gym. Playing board and card games at home or with friends. And this play is for playing outside. When there’s snow–go out and play! Sled, build a snowman, ski, ice skate, have a snowball fight, find some way to “play” and make the most of the winter season.
12. Pray
Last, but definitely not least, is to pray about it. Grumbling through winter has been something I’ve struggled with for years. I tried–in my own strength–many times to “enjoy winter this year,” usually through gritted teeth and a strong-willed mind, but I always failed.
This year, however, it was something I prayed about. I’ve prayed for a joyful heart, no matter the circumstances. I’ve prayed about being a good example and role model for my children. I’ve taught my children not to grumble and complain, yet winter would come and I was grumbling and complaining. I was convicted, so I repented to God and my family, and prayed.
By God’s grace, He’s allowed me to enjoy winter this year. And I believe He can do the same for you.