As the winter settles with its chilly air and short days, it’s easy to feel the weight of the season. The low temperatures and lack of sunlight can impact one’s mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing. Challenges are further heightened for persons with disabilities as sleet covered sidewalks make outdoor navigation more difficult. As such, many people end up spending extensive time indoors, leading to feelings of isolation and declining wellbeing.
However, there are many ways to embrace the coziness of the season and create a warm and comforting environment that nurtures both body and mind. I spoke with Nikoletta Erdelyi, a fellow winter lover and coziness enthusiast to learn the different ways she likes to cozy up against the icy winter. These ideas aren’t specific to individuals with disabilities but are universal things that everyone can do to take care of their health and wellbeing. Pick and choose what speaks to you!
Embrace the Hygge
We started our conversation with discussion of the Danish concept of Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), which is all about embracing coziness and contentment. Hygge promotes slowing down and indulging in simple pleasures such as curling up with a good book, sharing a warm beverage with loved ones, or having meaningful conversations with friends and family. There are many different ways you can embrace Hygge, continue reading to find out.
Create a warm and inviting home atmosphere
Transform your space into a cozy haven. Install soft yellow lighting and get throw blankets and comfy decor pillows to create a warm and inviting living space. Accessories such as scented candles or fairy lights can add to the relaxing and soothing atmosphere. View your home as your own personal “sanctuary” and if you like, spend time creating a space that is meaningful for you and suits your needs.
Nikoletta informed me that many small trinkets and treasures can be found for affordable prices on Facebook marketplace.
Indulge in hobbies
The coziness of the winter season makes it permissible to slow down in the fast-paced day to day life. If it always feels like you are putting off your hobbies, now is the perfect time to begin! Here is a list of 18 activities that you can do from the comfort of your home:
Cooking
soups, lentil stews, or curry are the ‘classic’ winter foods. You can also use ChatGPT to input the ingredients she has on hand and have it create a unique recipe. This not only prevents food waste, but enables you to try something new.
Journaling or creative writing
view journaling as a conversation with yourself, rather than a recount of the days events. You can also start a bullet journal or "junk journal".
Start a new craft:
start with a "DIY craft ideas" search on YouTube to get started!
Crochet or Knitting
here is a video to get started
DIY home decor
Indoor gardening
Puzzle and Board games
have in-person or virtual game nights with family and friends.
Photography
Painting:
the dollar store has all the affordable paint supplies needed. You can also get a paint by numbers kit.
Yoga and meditation
search easy tutorials on YouTube.
Macrame
read our blog on macrame as a therapeutic tool here.
Watch films or television
Read books:
you can also buddy read with peers and discuss
Learn a new skill
Learn to make your own candle
Bake
Make fresh bread
Do a puzzle
Prioritize rest and sleep
The long winter nights provide a great opportunity to focus on rest and sleep. Create a slow nighttime routine. For example, drawing a warm bath, reading, listening to a calming playlist, and drinking a cup of chamomile tea can help you wind down for the night. Ensuring that your bedroom is cozy with soft bedding and maintaining a comfortable temperature can contribute to restful sleep.
Acknowledge the difficult days
It is also important to remember that not every day will feel cozy and perfect. Acknowledging struggles of isolation or not feeling your best is important because it serves as a reminder that support, understanding, and access to resources is crucial in making winter a little bit easier to navigate. Reach out to loved ones and maintain a connection with family and friends either via phone, video calls or if you are up for it, by hosting small gatherings at home.
It is understandable that the winter months can feel dreadful. However, there are many ways to embrace the winter’s coziness and use it as an opportunity to slow down, recharge, and nurture your well-being. It is also important to remember that some days may feel more difficult than others. By creating a warm environment, enjoying comforting foods, staying active, and prioritizing self-care, you can make the most of the season and find joy in the little moments.