surviving winter
In winter, I try to take care of myself a little bit more. It's the busiest season of the year. And also the most tiring time of the year. Changing the clock to wintertime makes me more tired. There's less sunlight compared to spring and summer, and we live more inside than outside. Which all adds to more tiredness. At home I try to adjust my schedule to my lower energy level. And plan more time to relax.
Winter is also the season that I need more coziness and comfort. Less sunlight also means the urge to make it more warm and cozy at home. So today, a list of things that I'm doing this year to survive the winter. Things that bring more warmth, more happiness, more relaxation.
relaxing
color by number > This year I rediscovered coloring by number on the tablet. The daughter got into it, and we sometimes color together under a blanket on the couch. Very cozy!taking a bath > One of the nicest things in winter, I think, is taking a nice warm bath. Every year, during the busiest time of the year, I try to unwind with an Epsom salt bath. These salts contain a lot of magnesium, which helps your muscles relax. And it also helps you sleep wonderfully!
making puzzles > My favorite form of relaxing is making puzzles. This is so relaxing for me, that I also call it meditating. My mind can wander off, so that it finally reaches a point of quietness.
heating pad > My latest item for more relaxation is my heating pad, for neck and shoulders. I bought it for my shoulders, to give them some extra warmth and calm them down after a day of work. The warmth relaxes me so much, that I almost fall asleep every time ; )
planning less > One thing that helps me a lot in the darker winter months, is planning less. The weekends are not as filled with outings or social gatherings. There's more time to mess around the house and relax.
more comfort
more light > Light in wintertime equals more comfort. At least for me. In winter, I add string lights to our living room. And I try to make it a habit out of lighting candles every evening with dinner.more coziness in the house > When it's dark and cold outside, I try to make our home as cozy as possible. On the dinner table you will find a advent wreath with candles every December. And in January there is usually a tray full of candles and other cozy things to add to a feeling of warmth. There's always a blanket on the couch, waiting for someone to wrap himself in it.
flannel > My biggest pro tip for a cozy winter, is flannel duvet covers. They feel so soft and warm and thick. It really adds a lot to the coziness level!
more energy
qi gong > I try to do as many Qi Gong lessons every week. My teacher uploads a lesson for every day of the month, so it's not that hard to join. This balances my body, makes me more aware of the state my body is in, and brings more energy.dry brushing > Before taking a shower, I use a sisal brush a few times a week. This has a number of benefits including more energy.
benefits of brushing
- exfoliates and softens the skin: removes dead skin cells- boosts circulation: stimulates blood flow
- supports lymphatic drainage: helps stimulate the lymphatic system
- improves skin texture
- energizes the body and mind
more soup > In autumn and winter I try to add at least one soup dinner and lunch a week. More vitamins!
mindset & listening to my body > Listening to my body gives me more energy. Or maybe I should say that differently: listening to my body makes the impact of the yearly winter fatigue lower. If I act on the signals my body gives me, I take better care of myself. Which my body will thank me for by not aching as much and by being less tired. Winter time is the time to do everything a little slower, to focus on your health and giving the body a good rest. If I keep that in mind, I have an easier time to accept that things are slower.