Despite my lifelong distaste for the winter months, I’ve found myself living in the very mediocre Midwest for too many of my twenty-four years. If you’re anything like me, you understand the struggles that come with winter. It gets cold and depressing and can take a serious toll on your well-being. This year I’m determined to enjoy, so I’m the season taking a few steps to set the stage for a winter that I don’t just tolerate- one that I enjoy. In anticipation of the SAD, the cabin fever, the slippery steps and the comfort food, I’ve come up with a few ways that I can prepare myself for my least favorite season.

Invest in the Nest: I know that in the coming months I will be spending nearly all of my time indoors. I want my space to be somewhere that makes up for what the weather lacks. I find that if I bring the elements in it gives me a sense of space I wouldn’t otherwise find in the winter. Buying a few *throw-away plants*, a sun lamp, lighting some candles or a fireplace can make your space feel more lush and welcoming in the cold months. See also: Hygge. Adjust your space to give you what you need throughout the year. 

Buy proper gear: Sounds obvious, right? So why have I continuously put off investing in a night winter jacket, gloves and boots despite the extensive subzero weather? I don’t fucking know, but that’s dumb and you shouldn’t do it either. Even though it can get expensive, time consuming, its worth taking the time to gather the proper gear you need to take on the snow and the slush and whatever other horrendous acts of nature winter decides to throw our way this year.

Make a Winter Bucket List: You’ll never get bored if you’ve got a list of things to choose from! Making a winter bucket list can help keep you motivated to continue trying new things, having fun, and living fully even when the weather tries to slow you down. A bucket list will keep you looking forward to new things, and encourage you to seek the positive. 

Strengthen my fitness regimen: Winter is the worst time to lose footing in your fitness regimen. It’s the easiest time to lose motivation, to trade the mat for the couch. For me, my fitness plays a huge role in both my physical and mental health, and keeping up with my practice will benefit me all winter long  De-clutter my home: In order to make the extra time I’ll be spending indoors a little more comfortable, I’m de-cluttering my home before winter comes. Like spring cleaning, a *winter cleaning* can be a refreshing start to a new season. 

 

 

Practice Patience: Being stuck inside for long periods of time can take a toll on your patience. Rather than let cabin fever get the best of you, consider it an opportunity to read more, write more, meditate daily, and most importantly to pace yourself without judgement.