10 Self-Care Activities to Get You Through the Winter

It’s safe to say that 2020 was a dumpster fire for almost every sentient being on the planet, and we’re all looking forward to closing out this year and starting a new one. This is also a great time to take a beat and focus on yourself and what’s important to you. Stress levels have been high this year, no doubt, so some self-care activities are not only welcome but necessary. Here are a few ideas.

Let go of your expectations

The holidays look different this year—you’ve likely spent them in smaller groups or maybe alone—and that’s okay. It doesn’t have to be about ugly Christmas sweaters, holiday parties, piles of presents under a tree, or other “typical” things you’ve had in the past. Come up with new holiday traditions–or don’t, and treat the days like any other ones on the calendar. There are no set rules for the season, so take the time to relax and maybe watch a cheesy movie or two.

Write in a gratitude journal

Sure, this year has felt like a non-stop game of whack-a-mole, where the moles are one bad news story after another. Grab a journal and take a few minutes to write down what you’re thankful for, no matter how big or small. Whether that’s rediscovering a love of loungewear, maintaining your health, connecting with loved ones in new, creative ways (shoutout to everyone who has had to patiently teach their parents how to use video chats), or simply making it through the year in one piece, there’s always something to be grateful for. This doesn’t mean you have to deny or pretend any bad things exist, but give your brain a little escape by focusing on the positive.

DIY your own wellness day

Everyone has a different way of de-stressing, so spend a day (or days) on your favorite things. Grab a fuzzy blanket, and curl up on the couch with a book you’ve been meaning to read but never got around to. Put on a fluffy robe, light a calming candle, and treat yourself to multiple spa treatments like jade rolling your face, using a detox face mask, and giving your feet a little TLC. Pour yourself a glass of wine, load up on snacks, and catch up on reality TV. Make a delicious meal yourself or order delivery. Find whatever self-care activities work for you, and do them. On repeat.

Practice meditation and mindfulness

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed during the holidays with [waves hands generally around in the air at everything]. Instead, spend some time breathing and being present. Some studies have shown that meditation can help with anxiety and depression, and there are many apps that can guide you through if you don’t know where to start.

Sleep

You probably already don’t get as much sleep as you want or should, and a pandemic certainly doesn’t help. In fact, some studies show that with lockdowns this year, even though people have gotten more sleep on average, their self-reported sleep quality has taken a hit. Besides being cranky, a lack of sleep can also impact your physical and mental well-being. Sleep care is a 2021 predicted Pinterest trend. Use the holidays as a chance to refocus on some quality zzz’s and revamp your bedtime routine, either via luxurious pajamas, night affirmations, or more.

Declutter or organize something

Taking 15 minutes to KonMari part of your house. It will keep you busy, give you a sense of accomplishment and control, and make your house cleaner all at once. And it may help you mentally, as well: One study showed that clutter is associated with procrastination and lower life satisfaction in older adults. Since you’re not likely to be hosting holiday brunches this year, use the time to do some reorganization. Note we’re talking about tackling something manageable like a kitchen junk drawer, not the entire closet full of clothes you’ve barely touched this year because the latter is most definitely not relaxing. Baby steps.

Spend some time outside

Granted it’s winter, and the weather is cold to freezing in most parts of the country. But studies have shown that being outside with nature can have a positive impact on your health and well-being. Bundle up, take a brisk walk, fill your lungs with some fresh air, and then come back inside to enjoy that well-deserved hot toddy or other warm beverage.

Put your phone down

Stop doom scrolling, stop comparing what everyone else on social media is doing, and take a digital detox. Do a puzzle. Crack open a coloring book. Take a nap. But seriously, put your phone down.

Manifest your 2021

The end of the year is a great time to look forward to what you want in the new year. Manifesting is another one of the predicted 2021 trends from Pinterest, with “manifesting techniques” seeing a 105 percent increase in searches. Visualize your goals, pick an affirmation or mantra if you want to, and work towards it (manifestation still requires you to be an active participant; you can’t wish for stuff and expect it to show up). But if you need more inspiration, listen to Oprah Winfrey talk about manifesting what you want.

Connect with loved ones

Connecting with others is one of the most important self-care activities. We may collectively be sick of video calls, but make an effort to call, text, or write a loved one. Prioritize people who will lift you up and make you happy. Just because we’re physically apart, doesn’t mean we can’t still do things together.

Which of these self-care activities are you trying? Tell us in the comments–and shop our Beauty and Wellness collection for more pampering picks!