Self-Care for Winter

Bobbie Challenger • 15 January 2024

Top 10 Tips for Embracing Winter

You know I'm big on Self-care and it will probably come as no surprise that it is particularly important during the winter months.

Love winter, or hate it, unless you can disappear for a few months of the year, there is no getting away from it! The short, dark days can take their toll on us all and affect our physical and mental health.

There can be lots to enjoy about the changing seasons. Winter gives us extra time to snuggle under a fluffy blanket with a good book, to enjoy warm and hearty comfort food and to spend more time with friends and family. But, we’re also more likely to catch colds, and experience a dip in mood due to the lack of daylight.

It's not always easy to put ourselves first, but doing so can help us to be the best version of ourselves, both mentally and physically.


So, if you’re in need of a boost this winter, here are my top 10 tips to nurture yourself this winter:


  1. Create a winter reading list. The colder months make for the perfect time to snuggle up and enjoy some reading. A good book can offer you a chance to relax, unwind and learn something new.
  2. Vision the year ahead. How do you want 2024 to look for you? What needs to change in your life? Creating a vision board is not only fun, but is a powerful tool for manifesting the life you desire. Dream BIG - You are worthy of it all!
  3. Treat yourself to some snuggly PJ’s and thick, soft socks. There are few things more comforting during winter than snuggling up at home in your comfies.
  4. Stay hydrated. Remembering to keep our fluids topped up during the winter can be more difficult because we aren’t losing as much through sweat. The thought of drinking a cold glass of water is also much less appealing than it is in summer. Herbal teas are a great way to increase your water intake during the colder months. Plus, many herbs have added health benefits.
  5. Take a nap. It’s not uncommon to feel more tired during the winter months. The days are shorter, we’re using more energy to stay warm, and we’re also more prone to illness. If possible, allow yourself an afternoon nap to recharge your batteries.
  6. Go for a walk. It’s tempting to stay indoors when its cold outside, but our bodies need daylight. Wrap up warm, take a travel mug of something hot, and enjoy the fresh air.
  7. Birdwatching. Birds are very aware of the gradual increase in daylight and are becoming more vocal at this time of the year. Why not join the part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Bird Watch
  8. Exercise. Its important all year round but can be especially beneficial during the winter months. It gives the immune system a much needed boost and also floods the body with endorphins. Don’t fancy the gym? Try yoga (I know a woman that can help with that) ;-)
  9. Journal. A journal is a sacred tool. A safe space where you can pour your thoughts, dreams and rants. Writing for just a few minutes a day will help to free up some space in your head.
  10. Wrap up warm and count the stars. Short winter days offer many opportunities for stargazing. Wrap up warm, head outside, and turn your eyes to the skies. The fresh night air will do you the world of good.  If you're alone, you’ll also get some time to clear your mind. Or perhaps you might like to use this time to bond with the ones you love.


There are lots of things in life that we can’t control, but we can choose how we look after ourselves. Take better care of you and your mind and body we will be a happier place.


Which of these tips resonate most with you? Have you got any additional self-care tips that you could share? Leave them in the comments below.

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