Embracing Winter: 10 Uplifting Strategies to Thrive in the Season You Dread!

Abhay Singh via unsplash

I find winters challenging yet delightful. It brings forth various trials, allowing us to layer our favorite attire, savor warm beverages, indulge in soups, and explore more blogs.

However, this year poses a unique challenge, especially if winter is not your season of choice. Here’s how to cope:

After sifting through multiple weather updates and confirming news about La Niña, I figured it was time to bring out my thickest winter gear.

The IMD has declared the year to be characterized by “La Niña,” marked by chilly breezes. During this phenomenon, strong ocean winds remove warm air and water, leading to sporadic cold drafts. This event recurs every 2 to 7 years, and it calls for our attention.

Here’s my strategy to navigate winter.

1. Embrace the season

Acceptance is essential; understand that winter is upon us and cannot be avoided. Although it may feel different, overcoming this challenge is part of our resilience, and we must adapt.

2. Invest in cozy clothing

Acquiring stylish and comfortable clothing elevates our confidence in tackling the cold.

3. Keep moving

Staying inactive will lead to stiffness, and your lazy habits may solidify into routines.

4. Seek sunshine

Sunshine holds the key to our warmth and well-being.

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
David Monje via unsplash

5. Don’t venture out on an empty stomach

In cold weather, our bodies require additional energy to stay warm. This necessitates food; without it, we may risk feeling unwell.

6. Consider a gym membership

If sunlight isn’t sufficient, generate your own warmth through exercise. Working out helps boost internal heat and strengthens your immunity.

7. Stay hydrated

With increased warmth comes more perspiration, leading to a heightened need for hydration. A well-hydrated body prevents dry skin, dull complexions, headaches, and constipation.

8. Care for your skin

During the cold months, it’s vital to hydrate your skin and ensure you’re consuming essential vitamins and minerals.

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
Boudhayan Bardhan dry land

9. Surround yourself with winter enthusiasts

The more you engage with winter lovers, the less you might dread the cold.

10. Create a scrapbook for winter experiences

Similar to this checklist, outline your winter objectives and document them in your scrapbook.

11. Indulge in a hot spring bath

Some locations offer public or private natural hot springs.

12. Have a cozy campout in the living room

Instead of lighting a fire, set a heater up for warmth.

13. Take a class related to your favorite hobby

Dancing is my passion; I always engage in it during my leisure time.

14. Host a bonfire

No matter where you are, whether it’s your backyard or a nearby camp, a bonfire can be a thrilling experience.

15. Make random acts of kindness a priority

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
Credits: Nick Fewings

16. Plan a game night

Gather your friends for an evening of bowling, card games, board games, or take a trip to enjoy a live event.

17. Write heartfelt notes of appreciation

Express gratitude to those who truly deserve it.

18. Watch must-see films

Oscar-winning movies are a great choice; I often gravitate towards action genres!

19. Explore different teas

There are around 1500 kinds of tea, all falling into just four categories — that’s plenty to discover!

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
Credits: Vivek Kumar

20. Create a list of New Year’s resolutions

Here’s a peek at mine: I aim to read four pages daily while savoring green tea (healthy and wise), and Limit my Social Media usage.

21. Tidy up your closet and refresh your space

Many items in your wardrobe may no longer serve you. Declutter, clean thoroughly, and introduce some new styles.

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
Credits to Hannah Morgan

If you find yourself in snowy areas:

22. Craft a DIY snow globe 
23. Enjoy a traditional sleigh ride
24. Carve an ice sculpture
25. Build a snowman
26. Locate spots for skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, etc.
27. Organize a hot chocolate gathering
28. Engage in a snowball fight! There’s always someone!

How To Enjoy Winter When You Hate It
Credits to Helena Lopes

I hope these tips will help you embrace this winter season.

Enjoy the snow!