For many, winter is one of those seasons that turns smiles into frowns as the temperatures drop and the weather causes destruction. Fortunately, there are ways to find the positive in such a freezing time of the year.
Below are options to make the most of winter, as shared by experts in Time Magazine.
1. Set aside a week to adjust to winter
Kari Liebowitz, a health psychologist and author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days, suggests reserving a week to ease into winter living, with as little on your schedule as possible. Kari enjoyed a week of relaxation by joining a yoga class.
2. Plan a fun-filled winter bucket list
Therapist Rachel Totten encouraged people to create a bucket list with fun activities suitable for the season, which included going ice-skating or baking homemade goods for the neighbourhood.
3. Switch up your lighting
Rachel points out that research into the science of colour suggests that lighting plays a crucial role in improving your mood during the gloominess that winter brings. Full-spectrum lightbulbs, which mimic natural light, can assist with emotional well-being and reduce stress levels. Cooler lighting tones help improve focus and concentration, while warmer shades create a calming atmosphere.
4. Try hobbies that encourage you to slow down
Forget focusing on winter’s limitations and start leaning into the longer nights and extra time at home by adopting new activities, suggests Kari.
An amateur ceramicist, Kari says:
“Winter can be a time when you can reclaim and enjoy those slower hobbies, and things you don’t normally do.”
5. Bring a few plants indoors
Rachel moved some of her plants inside to get them through the winter and noticed that the greenery supported her mental well-being. If you are not interested in keeping plants indoors, she suggests finding other ways to add a touch of nature to your environment, such as an accent wall or a new painting, stating:
“It goes back to that choice and empowerment. What do you have within your control that could potentially help during this season?”
Also see: Winter glow-up guide: Skincare habits that actually work in cold weather
