Winter can feel beautiful — or it can feel long and heavy. Dark mornings. Cold days. Early evenings.
For many of us, this time of year makes it harder to stay active, connected, or motivated.
If you’ve caught yourself wishing for spring already, you’re not alone.
But what if winter didn’t have to be something you just “get through”?
What if it could be a season you move through with a little more ease and intention?
A Different Way to Think About Winter
There’s a Danish word you may have heard before: hygge (pronounced hue-gah).
It’s often described as coziness — but it’s really about creating a sense of comfort, balance, and well-being, especially during darker months.
Hygge isn’t about pretending winter is warm or cheerful.
It’s about meeting the season as it is — and choosing small things that help you feel more settled and supported.
Notice Your Winter Thoughts
How do you usually talk to yourself about winter?
Thoughts like “It’s too cold to do anything” or “I just have to survive until spring” can quietly shape how you feel and move. Over time, they can make your body feel heavier and your energy lower.
Try noticing those thoughts when they show up. Then gently ask:
- Is there another way to see this?
- What would support me right now?
Instead of “It’s too cold,” maybe it’s “I’ll feel better after a short walk.”
Instead of “Winter is boring,” maybe it’s “What feels nourishing in this season?”
Let Yourself Slow Down (Without Stopping)
Winter naturally brings a slower rhythm. That doesn’t mean doing nothing — it means choosing things that restore you.
This might look like:
- reading or listening to something you enjoy
- going to bed a little earlier
- taking time for quiet reflection or creativity
Slowing down isn’t giving up. It’s giving your body and brain space to reset.
Make Your Space Feel Supportive
Small changes at home can make a big difference in how winter feels.
You might try:
- softer lighting or candles in the evening
- warm blankets or layers where you rest
- creating a simple, cozy spot for reading or breathing
When your environment feels calmer, your nervous system often follows.
Gentle Movement Still Matters
Movement is especially important in winter.
Natural light (even on cloudy days) helps regulate sleep and energy. Moving your body helps circulation, focus, and mood.
That might look like:
- a short walk outside
- gentle stretching or balance work indoors
- a few minutes of movement to break up sitting
The goal is to stay connected to your body.
Stay Connected
Winter can feel isolating, but connection matters.
Whether it’s a conversation, a shared meal, a class, or a community space — being around others helps us feel more grounded and supported.
You don’t need a big plan. Even small moments of connection count.
A Gentle Reminder
Winter doesn’t have to be something you push through or escape from. With a few small shifts — in mindset, movement, and environment — it can become a season of restoration.
Movement doesn’t have to be intense.
Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping.
Both can exist together.
What’s one small way you can support yourself this winter?
I’d love to hear.
Sources:
- Campbell, S. S., Dawson, D., & Anderson, M. W. (1993). Alleviation of sleep maintenance insomnia with timed exposure to bright light. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 41(8), 829–836. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1532-5415.1993.tb06179.x
- Fetveit, A., Skjerve, A., & Bjorvatn, B. (2003). Bright light treatment improves sleep in institutionalised elderly--an open trial. International journal of geriatric psychiatry, 18(6), 520–526. https://doi.org/10.1002/gps.852
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