It has been downright frigid here in the Pacific Northwest this week. Many of us have finally gotten to that time of the year in the northern hemisphere where we need to wear more layers, turn up the heat, and snuggle with our loved ones. A co-worker gave me some orchids and I was worried about how they would make it home in the cold and the wind but they did fine. Flowers are both fragile and resilient….just like humans.
This time of year when it is darker and colder we are all at risk of getting a dose of the winter blues and its more scary cousin, seasonal affective disorder, which is depression triggered by the winter season.
Self-care is especially important at this time of year, to ease the difficulties of the winter season. Here are a few tips to get you through it.
CREATE A COZY ENVIRONMENT
Add a little extra hygge to your home to soothe your spirit and relax during the cold days. Think extra blankets, candles, and cocoa. The home is meant to be a sanctuary from the outside world, not just a place to hang your coat. Think warm, dimmer lights, a fire in the fireplace if you are lucky enough to have one, and lots of time at home with family or friends.
INDULGE IN COMFORT FOODS
Winter is a great time for homemade soups, stews, and chili. Bake bread, warm drinks, and pies, cookies and cakes. Eat and drink things that make you feel cozy and warm.
AIR OUT THE HOUSE
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you shouldn’t let in the fresh air now and then, even just for a few minutes. Let out the stale air and household toxins and freshen things up.
TAKE VITAMIN D
With less sun in winter, it is a good idea to take extra vitamin D. Lack of it can cause fatigue, achiness, bone pain, hair loss, and depression. We take vitamin D here in Oregon year round because it’s so rainy and overcast much of the time. It really helps.
FIND SOME COZY HOBBIES TO PASS THE TIME
Knitting, weaving, crochet…anything with yarn. Cooking, baking, yoga, making music, writing, reading, anything can be cozy if it makes you feel good in the cold.
Winter is for rest and recuperation. Use it to prepare for Spring and Summer when there’s more activity! You deserve the break.
Muses & Mirages 