As we delve deeper into winter and the new year, is self-care part of your resolutions? With snow falling outside and you cozying up indoors, consider indulging in self-care activities that cost nothing. Here are six healthy habits to help you navigate the lengthy winter season. (See also: 14 Smartphone Apps That Make Self-Care a Snap)
1. Welcome the winter harvest
While spring and summer bring vibrant farmers’ markets with a bounty of beloved produce, don’t let winter dull your dining experience. There’s much to be thankful for in the winter harvest, particularly the variety of root vegetables that are both wholesome and comforting. They require minimal prep time too. A favorite method is to chop up the winter vegetables taking up space in your kitchen—like carrots, beets, and potatoes—toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a 400-degree oven for 30 to 45 minutes. These veggies can also be mashed or blended into a soup. (See also: 20 Cheap and Easy Soup Recipes)
2. Hydrate and moisturize
The dry air of winter depletes moisture from your skin and body. Be sure to drink plenty of water for hydration, and don’t hesitate to lavish yourself with those lotions, creams, and nourishing hair masks you’ve been saving. Treat yourself to at-home spa days to your heart’s content. Also, consider running a humidifier to offset the drying effects of winter heating. (See also: 9 DIY Beauty Masks Made From Food)
3. Meditate and reflect
During the cold winter months, allow yourself the time to meditate, unwind, and reflect from the comfort of your home. Play soothing music, close your eyes, and dedicate a few minutes daily to focus on your breathing, checking in with your thoughts, and cultivating gratitude. This season is perfect for planning for sunnier times ahead, so take this opportunity to nurture your well-being without spending a cent. (See also: 6 Meditation Alternatives for People With Busy Minds)
4. Fill your space with inspiring reads and music
Winter is an ideal time to seek out inspiration and share it with others. Use this slower pace to finally dive into that untouched book or magazine on your shelf and discuss it with friends. Make sure your reading selections during these darker evenings uplift your spirits, especially when dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The same goes for the music and podcasts you listen to. (See also: 6 Podcasts for Travel Lovers)
5. Find solace in art
If you’re spending time indoors, few places are better than a museum. Immerse yourself in beautiful artwork, which may spark your creativity and boost your sense of achievement. Visiting a museum also exposes you to fellow art lovers, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation during these cold months. Many museums offer free admission, along with complimentary or discounted events and workshops throughout the winter. (See also: How to Visit Museums for Free)
6. Prioritize sleep
Do you feel sleepier this winter compared to other times of the year? Embrace it. Listen to your body’s needs and allow yourself the rest it craves. It’s completely normal to want more sleep during the winter when daylight hours are limited. Just as nature goes into a deep slumber during this season, you too can honor that instinct and allow yourself the time to recuperate. (See also: Get Better Sleep With These 5 Great Sleep-Tracking Apps)
While winter may leave us longing for warmer weather, those days will return soon enough. This season is an excellent opportunity for physical, mental, and emotional renewal so that when spring arrives, we can greet it with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.
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