Although I can appreciate that winter has its highlights, my general well-being is definitely more affected this time of year. I feel absolutely exhausted most of the time and struggle to stay motivated. Anything that involves leaving the house past 7pm seems like a massive effort, and on top of this, my eczema – which I suffer from all year round – seems to be at its worst when it’s cold. In short, this season can feel pretty overwhelming for me and I sometimes struggle to find ways to lift my mood.
So, if like me you’re dreaming of long summer evenings and feel like winter seems to be going on FOREVER, I’ve shared some insights on how I’ve been beating the winter blues…
Make the most of the light
A few weeks ago I headed out with two of my best friends for a long dog walk. Although it was bitterly cold, being out in the crisp fresh air for a few hours was really therapeutic. I mean by the end of it I could barely SEE as my eyes were streaming so much, but ya know.
We walked, talked, saw some wildlife, narrowly avoided dog poops, almost stacked it in the mud as we FOOLISHY tried to climb a tree, and never stopped getting excited over the fact that we were all wearing different coloured rain macs. Can. You. Imagine.
We also had a wander past A House For Essex, and met many dog walkers along the way. It was a lovely clear day, and although we all returned with flushed cheeks and frozen hands, it definitely gave me a little boost for the rest of the afternoon!
Look for the small joys of the season
Whether it’s spotting a little robin sitting in the morning frost or lighting your favourite scented candle in the evening, try and think about what you enjoy about winter and take pleasure in it. For me personally, I love tucking into some comfort food (spag bol/risotto) then snuggling down in my pjs with a good film. What’s good about winter is that the weather is often terrible outside, so you don’t feel as if you’re wasting the day by being inside!
Perhaps visit your favourite place and observe how different it looks in the winter, or organise a fun evening in with the gals ft. hot chocolate, films and a spot of pampering. OR just fester in your room and binge-watch Ru Paul. Who, me?!
Please note: Scraping the ice off your car first thing in the morning while contemplating your very exsistence is NOT a small joy of winter, mmkay?? *eye twitching*
Be kind to yourself
Above all else, be kind to yourself. If you know this time of year is more difficult for you, mentally or physically, then it’s important to take it easy. If you fancy spending a day or two slobbing out because you are feeling exhausted, or you just want to be alone to wallow in self pity – indulge yourself a little bit, and most importantly don’t feel guilty about it. Do what feels good for you – within reason!
I’ve also shared some other tips to brighten your mood here.
Do you struggle with this time of year too? What do you do to make yourself feel better?
I find that I struggle most in January. It’s dark almost all day where I live then. I combat it the same way you do – by snuggling down and getting cozy inside:)
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It’s the best way isn’t it! x
Just discovered your blog (via twitter) and love it! Keep posting 🙂