Inside: Winter self care routine to help you make the most of the winter months
Ah, winter. That magical time of year when stepping outside feels like being slapped by a snowman, and your heating bill makes you question every life decision. But it’s also the perfect excuse to slow down, get cozy, and prioritize you.
A solid winter self care routine isn’t just about surviving the cold—it’s about thriving in it. So grab a blanket, pour yourself something warm, and let’s chat about all the ways to keep cozy and care for yourself this season.
Winter Self Care Routine: How to Stay Cozy and Care for Yourself
Morning Warmth: Start Your Day the Cozy Way
Winter mornings are the ultimate test of character. Will you get up, or will the blankets win? Pro tip: let the blankets win for a few extra minutes, but then treat yourself to a warm, comforting ritual to start the day right.
- Pick Your Potion: Whether it’s a cup of spiced chai, hot cocoa loaded with marshmallows, or lemon water that screams “I have my life together,” let your drink set the tone.
- Journal Like a Boss: Write down three things you’re grateful for, even if it’s just “heated seats” or “the invention of socks.”
- Layer On the Cozy: Keep a dedicated morning shawl or blanket nearby. It’s like a hug you don’t have to share.
Tip: Don’t even think about looking at your phone first thing. Instagram can wait; you need caffeine and inner peace first.
Hydrate, Because Winter is Thirsty Work
Cold air is sneaky. It dries out your skin, your hair, and probably your soul a little bit, too. Hydration is the secret weapon you need to fight back.
- Sip Like a Pro: If plain water feels boring, go for warm herbal teas, fruit-infused water, or anything that makes you feel fancy. (Bonus points for sipping it out of a ridiculously large mug.)
- Skin Care That Slays: Slather on a rich moisturizer like you’re auditioning for a winter skincare commercial. Throw in a face oil and a hydrating mask for good measure.
- The SPF Struggle: Yes, you still need sunscreen in winter. No, you don’t get to argue with me about it.
Pro Tip: Keep a lip balm in every room of your house. You’ll never regret over-preparing for chapped lips.
Turn Your Space Into a Cozy Wonderland
If you’re going to be stuck indoors, might as well make it feel like a Hallmark movie set.
Below are some simple tips but if you are in need of some more guidance, check out my guide to creating a warm winter haven!
- Blanket Fort 2.0: Add plush throws, soft pillows, and rugs that make you feel like you’re walking on clouds.
- Mood Lighting FTW: Candles, fairy lights, or a Himalayan salt lamp will give your space that “Pinterest perfect” glow.
- Scents That Slap (In a Good Way): Think cinnamon, pine, or cookies baking in the oven. Bonus if you actually bake cookies.
DIY Idea: Make stovetop potpourri with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. It smells divine and makes you look like someone who has their life together (even if you’re secretly in pajamas all day). My favorite potpourri recipe is from Perry’s Picks!
Move Your Body, Gently
I know, the couch is calling, but so is your body—begging for a little movement to keep things flowing.
- Yoga Pants = Action Pants: Pop on a gentle yoga or stretching video. Even if you only last five minutes, it’s five minutes more than nothing.
- Dance Like Nobody’s Watching: Because in winter, nobody is watching. Crank up the tunes and bust some moves in your living room.
- Functional Fitness: Shoveling snow, cleaning, or rearranging furniture totally counts as a workout. Who needs a gym when you have chores?
Motivational Tip: If you’re going outside, wear layers like you’re starring in a Michelin Man reboot. Warmth first, dignity later.
Feed Your Soul (And Your Stomach)
Winter food is basically a love language. Think hearty, warming meals that feel like a hug in a bowl.
- Soup-er Choices: Tomato soup with grilled cheese, chicken noodle, or butternut squash—whatever makes you feel like a kid again.
- Bake Therapy: Spend a snowy afternoon baking cinnamon rolls or cookies. The smell alone is worth it.
- Cozy Cooking: Experiment with slow-cooked stews or casseroles loaded with seasonal veggies like squash and sweet potatoes.
Humorous Side Note: Eating a salad in winter feels wrong. Go ahead and eat like you’re preparing to hibernate—you’ve earned it.
If you are looking for some cozy breakfast ideas for cold mornings, look no further!
Winter Self Care Routine: Pause for Mindfulness
Sometimes the best self-care is simply stopping to breathe. Life can feel hectic, but winter is nature’s way of telling us to chill out (literally and figuratively).
- Meditate Without the Pressure: Try a 5-minute breathing exercise or use a guided app like Calm. No need to become a Zen master overnight.
- Create a Comfort Box: Fill a small box with items that make you happy—tea bags, a cozy book, a scented candle, or even a snack stash. Open it on tough days.
- Gratitude, Simplified: Write down one thing each day that made you smile. Even if it’s just, “The cat didn’t knock over my coffee today.”
Lighthearted Advice: If mindfulness feels like a chore, turn it into a game. How long can you sit quietly before a random to-do list pops into your head?
Sleep Like the Winter Queen You Are
Winter is for hibernation. Channel your inner bear and prioritize sleep like it’s a full-time job.
- Set the Scene: Dim the lights, put on calming music, and make your bed so cozy it could win an award.
- Bedtime Rituals:
- Take a warm bath with Epsom salts or lavender oil.
- Read a book that isn’t too exciting (sorry, thrillers).
- Sip chamomile tea and pretend you’re in an old-timey novel.
- Upgrade Your Bedding: Flannel sheets and a weighted blanket = pure bliss.
Funny Tip: Sleep masks make you feel fancy and keep out that annoying glow from your phone charger. Win-win.
Step Outside (Just For a Minute, I Promise)
Yes, it’s freezing, but trust me—fresh air does wonders. Bundle up and take a brisk walk to admire the winter beauty.
- Simple Outdoor Joys:
- Watch snowflakes fall.
- Listen to the crunch of snow under your boots.
- Take a ridiculous amount of photos for Instagram.
- Seasonal Activities: Try sledding, snowball fights, or even just standing outside with a mug of hot chocolate like the main character in a holiday movie.
Pro Tip: The faster you move, the faster you can get back to your blanket fort.
Winter Self Care Routine: Connect with Your People
Winter can feel isolating, but a little connection goes a long way.
- Plan Cozy Hangouts: Movie nights, game nights, or even just chatting by the fire (or space heater) are all great options.
- Virtual Fun: Host a virtual tea or cocoa date with friends far away. Show off your mug collection.
- Spread Kindness: Write a heartfelt note, bake treats for a neighbor, or send a surprise “thinking of you” text.
Funny Note: If someone asks why you haven’t left your house all week, tell them you’re “wintering” like a Victorian poet.
For the perfect movie night in, check out these winter movie marathon ideas!
Pamper Yourself, Guilt-Free
Sometimes, self-care means going full diva. Treat yourself to little luxuries that make life feel special.
- At-Home Spa Night:
- Use a fancy face mask.
- Soak in a bubble bath with candles.
- Finish with a DIY mani-pedi in wintery colors like cranberry red or frosty silver.
- Warm Accessories: Heated slippers, a microwavable neck wrap, or even an oversized hoodie blanket—yes, please.
Life Tip: You’re never too old for a hot water bottle. Trust me, it’s life-changing.
Crafting Your Perfect Winter Self Care Routine
There you have it—a foolproof plan to stay cozy, recharge, and thrive this winter. Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s about little moments of joy, warmth, and kindness—especially toward yourself.
So light that candle, grab a blanket, and let winter be your season of self-love. And remember, you’re doing amazing (even if you’re still in pajamas).
