Winter, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, often feels like a hibernation period. As nature slows down and animals retreat for the season, many people also find themselves seeking warmth and quiet.
But life doesn't have to slow down in winter – and it doesn’t have to be a time of idleness and complaining about the weather.
We’ve prepared this article with five practical tips to help you stay active and feel good during winter. Take this as your personal Winter Wellness Guide for maintaining your physical and mental health during the cold season.
For many, winter means cozying up indoors with a cup of tea and a good movie. While nobody can argue that this is enjoyable, it's crucial to maintain an active lifestyle for the health of our minds and bodies.
While it might take some self-convincing, outdoor activities in winter are excellent for several reasons:
Have you noticed the feeling of joy, energy, and contentment that usually comes after workouts? Engaging in sports - even more so in fresh winter air - triggers a cascade of happiness hormones, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. As you glide across snow-covered slopes or navigate icy trails, your body releases endorphins – natural painkillers and mood elevators that counteract stress and fatigue.
Cold is often the factor that keeps people from starting winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, winter jogging, and others. However, it’s all about the proper clothing and preparation. Before you pick a new winter hobby, research what clothing and equipment is needed for it, and start gradually – with smaller distances and lower intensity workouts.
Even if you don’t feel like putting on skates or jumping on a snowboard just yet, you can push yourself out of your comfort zone by setting smaller goals. For example, go for a short walk every day, take a mini-hike once a week, or simply reach a daily step count. If you feel the positive effects of these tiny activities, with time, you can increase their frequency or intensity.
While outdoor activities are great, there are plenty of ways to enjoy winter indoors. Whether it's curling up with a good book, indulging in handicrafts, or going out to concerts and theatre plays, find activities that bring you joy and help you stay positive. And don’t forget that rest and relaxation are no less important than staying active.
Here are some relaxation techniques you can practice in the cold season:
Whatever you love about winter, try turning it into a positive association for motivation and inspiration. Associating a productive activity with a pleasurable one can create a powerful habit loop that you can use for your benefit. This premise is explained in the book “The Power of Habit“ by the Pulitzer-winning productivity author Charles Duhigg.
Let us explain how it works.
Imagine you have a task you don't particularly enjoy, like cleaning the house or studying for an exam. Instead of dreading it, you can associate it with something you love. For instance, you could always listen to your favorite playlist while cleaning. Over time, your brain will associate cleaning with the positive feelings evoked by the music.
Similarly, lighting a scented candle or wearing a cozy sweater can create a positive ritual and make tasks more enjoyable. By consistently pairing these pleasant activities with less desirable ones, you can rewire your brain to view them in a more positive light.
Winter, with its quieter pace, offers a unique opportunity to take care of our living spaces. Unlike the bustling distractions of summer, the colder months provide an opportunity to carry out long-overdue home improvements. And there's something genuinely satisfying about creating a well-maintained and inspiring home environment.
Maybe your home doesn’t need any serious rejuvenation, but there are still things you can do to make your living environment more inspiring and energizing:
Summer with its many activities can be distracting, but winter offers an opportunity to prioritize self-care and home improvement. By implementing the strategies we’ve outlined, you can create a cozy and inviting environment that supports your well-being and positive outlook.
Remember – giving yourself a sense of security is also a powerful self-care strategy. As you focus on your health and home, ensure that you're protected against unexpected life events. Reliable insurance, such as accident, home, car, and other types of insurances, can provide financial security, allowing you to enjoy the winter season without worry.