Wintering: How We Get Through The Cold Months Cozy and Happy

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The weeks after new years are awkward, weird, and not very exciting. It’s cold, dreary, it’s usually raining or snowing, and you just don’t feel like doing anything. That might make some of you feel down in the dumps or just low energy.

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♬ Little moments – Reinúr Selson & himood

But you shouldn’t let the cold or snow get you down – there is so much you can do to brighten your day and make them feel cozy. These are just a few that help us get through the cold months with joy and peace:

1. Go Outside
   Whenever I find myself in a bad mood, I head outside – and that strategy has never failed me. Research shows that spending time outside in nature can measurably improve mood and make you feel happier: exposure to natural environments has been linked with lower stress, reduced anxiety and depression, and increases in positive emotions and feelings of well-being. Experimental studies suggest that even brief time outdoors can reduce stress hormones like cortisol and improve mood, while people who spend regular time in green spaces tend to report higher life satisfaction and positive affect.
2. Learn Something New
   Something I learned only recently is that I love learning things that aren’t important. I used to think classes were to reach a particular goal, or to help push your business to the next level – but I didn’t know that learning something just for fun can also improve your life.  Aka, a hobby! Research shows that learning something new can boost happiness and well-being: tackling new skills or knowledge stimulates the brain, encourages dopamine release (a “feel-good” neurotransmitter), and gives a sense of accomplishment and growth that’s linked to positive mood and fulfillment. Novel experiences and ongoing learning also help broaden perspectives and provide engaging challenges that can elevate your overall sense of well-being.
3. Lots of Tecito
   Tea is not just something you drink. It’s powerful herb that has specific characteristics and that makes you feel certain ways. For example, you probably know that drinking chamomile tea helps you relax and drift off to sleep, but did you know that Tulsi tea has the opposite effect? Or that licorice root tea is great for when you have a tummy ache? You can create a feeling in your mind or body just by carefully looking up tea blends. Even better if you do loose leaf tea, because (as we talked about in our book) teabags may release microplastics into your blood stream.

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4. Organize a space
   Pick a space, any space, and get to work. I know you have a room or corner that’s been bugging you for months (maybe years), and that you keep putting off. Once you tackle this one corner, you’ll feel like a million bucks.

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5. Build something with your hands
   Crafting is the best antidote to screen time spiraling. First you have to dig in and learn about the project, then you plan it out, buy materials, and get to work. This is an excellent way to feel accomplished, goal oriented, and productive.
6. Make a corner cozy
   Blankets, pillows, rugs – simple tweaks to these elements in your house can make all the difference – and they don’t have to cost a lot of money. It’s all about rearranging things, bringing out old things you haven’t seen in a while, and positioning it just so on your couch. This will reinvigorate your home and make you feel cozy as ever.

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