It’s winter now, which is the ideal time to grab your favorite warm beverage, and put on those fuzzy socks, and suddenly, 5:00 pm feels like the middle of the night. No matter what woes this darker time of the year brings you, there are many ways that you can look to care for yourself. The change in the weather isn’t the only thing going on this time of year, and our efforts to care for ourselves may need to change as well.
Above all else, doing what makes you feel good and brings you joy should be prioritized. As proponents of prioritizing self-care overall, Soothe put together a few seasonal winter self-care ideas to try out.
Winter Self-Care Ideas to Try
Keep Your Immune System Strong
Winter is a time when our immune systems may be tested. You’re likely hard-pressed to find fresh, local foods to add to your diet, but looking out for seasonal and nutrient-rich foods such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, staying hydrated, and getting a sufficient amount of sleep each night can help.
Be Kind to Yourself
It can be easy to feel the blues with the lack of vibrancy and light that the other three seasons tend to give Americans, and you should give yourself grace because of it. Recognize that this is a season where it is perfectly fine to slow down and practice not only mindfulness but self-compassion as well. This will allow you to feel your best without overextending yourself.
Find Joy in Movement-Even Indoors
While winter weather conditions may discourage you from partaking in outdoor workouts consistently, maintaining a fitness routine is vital for your overall health. If activities outdoors like walking, skiing or snowshoeing are out, consider swapping outdoor activities for options such as stretching, yoga, indoor workout classes, or other low-impact exercises to keep your muscles active and your mood elevated.
Hydrate and Nourish Your Skin
Cold, dry air can take a toll on your skin. The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Hydration should be a priority, meaning you should not only drink plenty of water for your body to function properly but also utilize moisturizing skincare products to protect and soothe your skin. Incorporating nourishing treatments such as a hydrating facial can also help you look and feel your best for the winter holidays.
A Hydrating Facial from Soothe provides deep moisturization, replenishes your skin’s natural barrier, and restores that healthy glow. Delivered by a licensed professional in the comfort of your home, it’s the perfect way to combat winter dryness while indulging in a moment of self-care.
Go Outside
While this might be a bit of a difficult task when it comes to cold weather self-care, going outside, even just for a short walk may just be what you need to keep your “chill”. Sunlight, even for a short period, can make a difference in boosting your mood and allowing you to reconnect with nature. You may want to also consider light therapy to supplement the lack of sun during this time of year.
Protect Your Mental Health During the Colder Winter Months
Cold weather and being short on daylight can impact your mood. Many individuals experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can be difficult at times to manage. When you’re able to, integrating some of the options mentioned above can help bolster your mood.
Add Massages to Your Winter Self-Care Routine
Winter is the perfect time to add massages to your self-care routine as we move into 2025. Whether it’s to ease tension from the cold or just to relax and de-stress, a massage is an excellent way to stay warm and refreshed. Soothe makes it easy to enjoy these benefits with professional, on-demand massage services tailored to your needs.
If you’re ready to take the first step of a self-care massage, Soothe is here to help you feel good, no matter what season. Whether you’re seeking relief after shoveling too much snow or simply want a moment of relaxation solely focused on you, Soothe offers personalized, mobile massage services that come to you whenever, wherever. Let this winter be the season where you prioritize yourself.
