“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.”
– Jean Shinoda Bolen
Winter can be a beautiful time of year, but the shorter days and biting cold often leave us feeling a bit drained, unmotivated, or even overlooked. When the world feels gray, it’s easy to forget a fundamental truth: You matter.
Winter is the perfect time to prioritize self-care. Not just as a routine, but as a way to honor your own worth. By taking care of yourself during the winter months, you can emerge from the frost feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to embrace the warmth when it returns.
Here are some ideas to help you nurture your mind, body, and spirit during the colder months:
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- Get Some Sunshine: Even though the days are shorter, make sure you get some exposure to natural light. Whether it’s opening the curtains or spending sometime outdoors, sunlight can help with mood regulation and vitamin D production. Taking these few minutes for yourself is a small way of saying, “I am worth the effort.”
- Move Your Body: Exercise is a powerful mood booster, and winter is no excuse to skip it! Bundle up and take a walk or try a new class at your local gym. Even a short workout can do wonders for your energy levels and mental well-being.
- Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods: Winter brings a bounty of delicious and nutritious foods. Warm up with hearty soups made from seasonal veggies like root vegetables, squash, and kale.
- Spend Time with Loved Ones: Winter is a time for togetherness. Host a potluck dinner with friends, plan a cozy game night, or simply enjoy a warm drink while you catch up with someone. Social connection is vital for our well-being, so make an effort to nurture your relationships.
- Take Time to Connect with Others: Social connection is vital for our mental health. You can host a potluck, plan a cozy game night, or simply catch up over a warm drink at a local coffee shop. While you’re nourishing your own soul through connection, make it a point to let someone else know they matter to you. A simple text, a sincere “I appreciate you,” or a warm hug can be the light someone else so desperately needs.
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Self-care is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach, nor is it selfish. It is an act of recognizing your inherent value. Make sure to carve out some time each day to rest your mind and recharge your batteries.
Cheryl Rice, Founder
https://youmattermarathon.org/
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