Are you affected by the weather when it’s colder, dark and wet outside? If so, snuggle up with these 7 simple and cosy self-care ideas for when it’s colder outside.
SELF-CARE WHEN IT’S COLDER OUTSIDE
As the days get shorter and the weather gets chillier, it’s so tempting to stay bundled up inside and let the cold put a damper on your mood. The autumn and winter months can sometimes leave us feeling sluggish and a bit down, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on self-care. Think of it as giving yourself a cosy little recharge!
Looking after yourself during the colder months doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best self-care is often the simple, comforting kind that helps you feel relaxed, warm, and content. So grab a warm drink, snuggle under a blanket, and enjoy these cosy self-care ideas that will keep you feeling good throughout the season.
SIMPLE SELF-CARE
And, before we look at some of those ideas, I wanted to reiterate that self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, time-consuming or lavish. In fact, the most impactful self-care is often the sort that can be woven into our every day, just a few minutes on a regular basis to nourish body and mind.
If this is something you’d like to explore after reading this article, why not take a look at my Self-Care Toolkit? It’s designed to help you create a self-care plan that fits around you and your life and supports you in the best way possible.
Learn more about the Self-Care Toolkit.
7 SIMPLE AND COSY SELF-CARE IDEAS
Here are 7 simple ways to look after yourself when it’s colder, darker and damper outside!
1. Create a Cosy Evening Routine
Winter evenings are the perfect time to slow down and create a relaxing routine that helps you wind down. With the dark nights drawing in earlier, it’s a great excuse to prioritise rest and comfort. Start by creating a cosy atmosphere in your home.
- Lighting: Switch on some fairy lights or light a few scented candles. The soft, warm glow instantly makes any room feel more welcoming. If you’re a fan of scents, choose something like vanilla, cinnamon, or sandalwood – something warm and comforting.
- Get Comfy: Change into your cosiest pyjamas or a soft dressing gown, and wrap yourself up in a big blanket. The physical act of getting comfortable can help your mind relax too.
- Unplug: Try putting your phone on “do not disturb” mode or leaving it in another room for the evening. Instead, grab a good book, watch your favourite feel-good film, or listen to a podcast.
An evening routine like this doesn’t have to take much time – it’s all about creating a little pocket of peace before bed. It helps signal to your brain that it’s time to relax and can improve your sleep too.
2. Warm Baths and Showers with Aromatherapy
There’s something magical about a warm bath or shower on a cold day. It’s not just about getting clean – it can be a full sensory experience that soothes your body and mind. Make it special by adding in some aromatherapy.
Essential Oils: Try adding a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile essential oils to your bath. If you’re in the shower, you can put a few drops on the floor of the shower (away from the water flow and being careful not to make it slippery!) and let the steam carry the scent around you. Lavender is perfect for relaxing before bed, while eucalyptus can clear your head if you’re feeling a bit stuffy from the cold weather.
Bath Salts or Bombs: Treat yourself to some bath salts or bath bombs with soothing ingredients like magnesium or sea salt. These can help ease tired muscles, especially if you’re feeling tense or stiff from the colder weather.
Post-Bath Treats: After your bath or shower, make sure you’ve got a fluffy towel or dressing gown ready to wrap yourself in. A little moisturising with your favourite lotion or body oil can also help your skin stay soft and hydrated, which is much needed in the dry winter months.
3. Nourish Yourself with Comforting Foods
When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing better than a warm, comforting meal. This is the season for hearty soups, stews, and baked goods that warm you from the inside out. But self-care through food isn’t just about filling your stomach – it’s about nourishing yourself in a way that feels good.
Make Soups and Stews: A homemade soup or stew is easy to make, and you can pack it full of veggies, lean proteins, and nourishing ingredients. Plus, they’re great for meal-prepping – make a big batch and freeze portions so you always have a comforting meal ready when you’re too tired to cook.
Slow Down Your Meals: During the colder months, take the time to really enjoy your food. Eating slowly, savouring each bite, and maybe even enjoying your meal by candlelight can turn a simple dinner into a self-care ritual.
Indulge a Little: It’s perfectly fine to treat yourself! Whether it’s a slice of cake, a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, or some freshly baked cookies, a little indulgence can lift your spirits. The key is to enjoy it mindfully and without guilt – after all, self-care is about feeling good, not restricting yourself.
4. Take Up a Creative Hobby
The long winter evenings are a great opportunity to pick up a creative hobby. Engaging in something creative can be a brilliant form of self-care because it helps you disconnect from the daily grind and focus on something fun and fulfilling.
- Knitting or Crocheting: There’s a reason knitting and crocheting are so popular in the colder months – they’re the perfect cosy activities! Not only do they keep your hands busy, but at the end of it, you’ve made something you can use, like a scarf, blanket, or even a pair of cosy socks. Plus, the repetitive motion is soothing and almost meditative.
- Journaling: If you’ve never tried journaling, now might be the perfect time to start. You don’t need to write pages and pages – just jot down your thoughts, how you’re feeling, or what you’re grateful for each day. It’s a lovely way to process emotions and keep track of the little things that bring you joy.
- Adult Colouring Books or Puzzles: If knitting isn’t your thing, adult colouring books or puzzles can be another great way to unwind. Colouring is a simple, relaxing activity, and puzzles give your brain something to focus on without feeling overwhelming. I’ve recently started to enjoy doing Sudoku and crosswords to keep my brain active and healthy!
5. Get Outside for Fresh Air
I know, when it’s freezing outside, the last thing you might want to do is leave the warmth of your home. But getting outside, even for a short walk, can do wonders for your mental and physical health.
- Walks in Nature: Bundle up in your warmest coat, hat, and scarf, and head out for a brisk walk. It doesn’t need to be a long one – just 10 or 15 minutes in the fresh air can clear your head and give you a little boost of energy. If you’ve got a park nearby, try walking there and appreciating the beauty of winter – the crisp air, the frosty leaves, maybe even some snow if you’re lucky.
- Soak Up Natural Light: One of the reasons we feel more sluggish in winter is because we don’t get as much sunlight. Whenever you can, try to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short break. The natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock and can improve your mood.
- Bring Nature Inside: If you really can’t face going out in the cold, bring a little nature inside. Houseplants are a great way to brighten up your space, and taking care of them can be a calming, mindful activity.
6. Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Self-care isn’t just about the things you do for yourself – it’s also about staying connected with the people who lift you up. The winter months can sometimes make us feel isolated, especially when it’s too cold or dark to go out as much. But staying in touch with friends and family is so important for your emotional well-being.
- Plan Cosy Catch-Ups: Invite a friend over for a coffee or mulled wine and a chat, or plan a movie night with your family where everyone snuggles up with blankets and snacks. You don’t have to go out or do anything fancy – just spending time together in a cosy environment can be the perfect way to feel connected.
- Write Letters or Send Cards: There’s something so special about receiving a handwritten letter or card in the post. Why not write a letter to a friend you haven’t seen in a while? It’s a thoughtful way to stay in touch, and writing it can be a lovely, mindful activity in itself.
- Virtual Meetups: If you can’t meet up in person, try setting up a virtual hangout. A video call with a good friend, even for just 20 minutes, can leave you feeling more supported and less alone.
7. Prioritise Rest and Sleep
Finally, one of the most important forms of self-care, especially in winter, is making sure you’re getting enough rest. The colder months can make us feel more tired than usual, and that’s completely normal. Rather than pushing through, listen to your body and give yourself permission to rest.
- Stick to a Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s natural rhythms, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
- Create a Cosy Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom as comfortable and restful as possible. Soft bedding, warm blankets, and blackout curtains can all help create the perfect sleep sanctuary. You could also try a white noise machine or a sleep app with calming sounds if you struggle to drift off.
- Naps Are OK!: If you’re feeling extra tired during the day, don’t be afraid to take a nap. A short nap (around 20-30 minutes) can recharge your energy without making you feel groggy and has some wonderful benefits for our body and mind. The Sleep Foundation explains why.
CONCLUSION
Self-care in the colder months is all about finding comfort and warmth in the little things. Whether it’s creating a cosy evening routine, nourishing yourself with hearty meals, or taking up a creative hobby, these small acts of self-care can make winter feel a lot more enjoyable. And remember, it’s not about perfection – it’s about doing what feels good for you and making time to take care of yourself.
So, as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, don’t forget to slow down, cosy up, and look after yourself and your home this winter. You deserve it!
What other ways can YOU think of for some cosy self-care? I’d love to hear from you so please leave a comment below!
GET YOUR FREE PRINTABLE
One of the ideas I mentioned was to create a simple but cosy evening routine to help you wind down from the day and get ready for a restful night’s sleep.
There are many things you can do to help you with that and I’ve created a free printable Evening Routine checklist with 10 ideas for you to follow. Perhaps you could incorporate them into your own evening routine this coming week?
Pop your details in the box below so I know where to send it!
Antonia Colins is the creator of Balance Through Simplicity – a website and blog helping busy people declutter, organise and simplify their home and life. She has over 20 years of experience in juggling work and family life and supporting individuals through home adaptations and enjoying their home more. In her spare time, you can find Antonia walking, gardening or planning her next travel adventure! She lives in the UK with her husband and teenage kids. Read more about Antonia.