I am hearing it from my friends. I am hearing it from my clients. I am feeling it growing inside me. The looming dread for winter. Even if you are a person who loves cold, snowy weather, you have to admit that the anticipation of this particular winter feels heavier, more uncertain. To be fair, we are still in the middle of a pandemic. The information continues to change. We don’t know when life will feel “normal” again. There are so many additional stressors right now with a struggling economy and the impact on our lives. A volatile election season and divisive conversations around every corner. And now shorter days, longer nights, less exposure to the sun or opportunities to be in nature.
With the help of my colleagues and clients, I have compiled a plan to face the next five months (who am I kidding, six months!). Experiment with some of these ideas. Set small goals.
Enjoy Now.
Fall has so much to offer, when you find yourself living in the headspace of fear for the winter then you are missing out on all that today has to offer. Bike rides through forest preserves, trees aflame with vibrant colors. Apple picking, pumpkin carving, fall planting of bulbs. A planned day at the Botanic gardens or a bonfire with a cup of hot cider. Be present. Everyday has potential to hold beauty, don’t miss it.
Let Go.
Reflect on the memories made over the summer. Compile an album of photos from your Spring and Summer. Spend time journaling as you think about the moments you savored in nature or with loved ones. Honor the loss of another summer.
Embrace Winter.
With shorter days, there is more time indoors. Get your coziest clothes on, make a cup of your favorite hot drink and read. Create DIY crafts for holiday gifts. Call an old friend. Join (or start) a virtual book club. Eat by candlelight. Create traditions like “fancy fridays” or game night. Learn new recipes or bake your favorite treats. Take a hot bath – use epsom salts to soothe aching muscles. Embrace the outdoors during the winter months too! Find a new trail to walk. Learn to snowshoe. When was the last time you went sledding?
Set Intentions.
With less sun, we will be getting less vitamin D. Be intentional about starting vitamin D supplements. Do you have access to a sun lamp? Consider purchasing one and start your day sitting in front of it. Is there something you have always wanted to start doing? A practice of journaling, a book you’ve wanted to read or something new you wanted to learn? Begin a practice of meditation. (Have you discovered the free meditation app Insight Timer?) With more time at home, could this be the winter you learn to play guitar or begin a practice of yoga? Make a list of books you want to read or movies you want to see. Learn how to play an instrument, learn how to knit, learn another language. Plan a weekend getaway to a beautiful midwest town nearby.
There will be difficult days ahead. There will be beautiful days ahead. Winter will pass by as all other winters pass by. Allow yourself to dream about the next spring and summer. Daydream about easier days to come.
