I wasn’t built for cold weather. I dread winter because it means cold air, which means less time outside doing the things I love, which means my S.A.D. factor (seasonal affective disorder) kicks in. But what I do love about winter is that life slows down a bit more and my social schedule isn’t as crazy (post holidays) thus leaving me more time for self-care - which is Ah-mazing! We should all take time this winter to indulge in things centered around pleasure, enjoyment, and wellness - it does the body (and mind) good. So, if you suffer from the winter blues or you’re just looking to enhance your well-being, here is a list of 60 things that can help increase your happiness factor this winter. If you’re already doing most these things, well, you’re my person, and we should be friends. :)

1. Take a break from technology

2. Start a gratitude journal

3. Meditate (use the Calm app if you’re new to meditation)

4. Register for a class or workshop on something that interests you, just for fun

5. Invite someone over for tea (or wine)

6. Listen to music you love and sing or dance like no one is watching

7. Buy yourself some flowers or a new plant

8. Draw, take an art class, make some art

9. Take a long walk or go for a run

10. Get a massage or a facial

11. Read a magazine or book that speaks to you or lifts you up

12. Explore sensual and sexual pleasures

13. Cook your favorite meal or experiment with new foods or recipes

14. Take a nap

15. Sit in front of a light therapy lamp (it actually does help with the winter blues)

16. Spend time in nature (sit in a park, walk near a lake or ocean, walk your dog)

17. Volunteer and help someone else

18. Sit and talk with your kids

19. Play games with your kids

20. Eat well and nourish your body (make a smoothie or anything else that’s healthy)

21. Meet up with a friend or loved one for lunch or dinner

22. Enjoy a bubble bath (with epsom salts if you have them)

23. Take music lessons

24. Get a manicure or pedicure

25. Take dance lessons

26. Watch a funny movie

27. Bake for someone else and deliver it to them

28. Have a cup of herbal tea and just relax

29. Ask for what you need

30. Donate clothing and other stuff you don’t need anymore

31. Organize (closets, drawers, cabinets, desks)

32. Practice deep breathing

33. Exercise indoors (Youtube is great for this)

34. Create a video doing something you are passionate about (you can share it, or not)

35. Spend time with positive people

36. Use positive affirmations

37. Pray for yourself and for others

38. Visit a farmers market and savour fresh foods

39. Do yoga or just do some stretches

40. Ask someone to mentor you

41. Go to a concert or theater

42. Go on a retreat

43. Get enough sleep

44. Seek new experiences or knowledge

45. Wake up earlier

46. Call someone you have lost touch with

47. Watch a sunrise or sunset

48. Revisit an old hobby or interest

49. Snuggle up on the sofa and watch a movie you love (with popcorn)

50. Make soup

51. Do a puzzle

52. Spend time with your pet or get a pet

53. Plan a vacation or staycation (be a tourist in your own city)

54. Participate in playful activities

55. Plan a date night

56. Visit an elderly friend or relative, listen to their stories and wisdom

57. Sit alone for 20 minutes in silence and reflect on how you are feeling - write it down

58. Write down your dreams and goals - reread them everyday

59. Hot tub or Cold Plunge (or both)

60. Build a fire or light some candles

    I hope you find these tips helpful. It seems like everyone gets the winter blues at some point so self-care is vital during this time. Just remember, if you feel down or “off” for more than a couple of weeks, or if you’re mental or physical well-being is really suffering, reach out to a medical professional or licensed therapist who can help, as this may be a sign of a bigger problem. In any case, take care of yourself.

    XO,

    Penny