Easy ways to curb the winter blues (from inside)

This is a hard time of year for many of us. Alongside the political climate, the days are cold, dark, and short. Motivation can feel scarce whether that’s going out with friends, getting outside, or doing anything beyond what’s absolutely necessary to get through the day.

The usual advice for seasonal affective disorder or any kind of winter fatigue is to get more sunlight, go outside, and take vitamin D. And if you’re able to do those things, that’s wonderful. But some days, honestly, I just don’t have it in me.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about ways to care for myself from inside the home on days when my energy is dwindling. There are lots of gentle, meaningful ways I try to tend to myself and release pent-up energy without forcing productivity. Self-care doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing.

This list is also supportive for anyone living with depression, moving through their luteal phase, or just burnt out. But really, it’s for anyone who needs permission to meet themselves where they are.

1. Do Yin Yoga From Your Bed

Hot yoga is my favorite winter practice. It warms my whole body from the inside. But on days when I’m deeply fatigued and don’t want to brace the gosh darn horrible cold, I stretch gently from the comfort of my bed. Yin yoga already asks for cushions and blankets, so I light a candle, cuddle in, and put on a 30-minute practice. In savasana, I sometimes let myself fall asleep, or read for the rest of the night and let that be enough for the day. It shifts my energy entirely, softening my mood, mind and body.

Here's a link to one of my faves

2. Stay Connected In Low Effort Ways

Going out for events, even coffee, can feel like a lot when you're experiencing even mild depression or fatigue. Have a phone date with a friend or invite someone over for a movie or cozy hang. If company still feels like a lot, sit on the phone with someone you trust (even quietly) or send a voice memo instead of a text so you still feel connected without the energy haul of full conversation.

3. Create One Small Sensory Anchor

Our bodies communicate through sensation. Winter can be low stimulus, quiet, empty or even lonely. Make the space cozy and anchor yourself in one sensory, feel good thing to help you transition, break up the day and drop into a moment of mindfulness. Light a candle. Make a cup of tea (my favorite is chai!). Put on your favorite record. You don't need to overhaul your environment, just choose one thing that feels grounded in where you are or gently shifts your energy.

4. Tend To Something

We are meaning making creatures. This is why we like to stay so productive! I like to believe we all feel better and more connected when we are contributing in some way. That contribution might not look like it does in the warmer months, so let's keep it inside. Could your plants use a little extra care? Do you have a furry babe who could use some extra cuddles? Has there been a cyanotype print kit sitting on top of your refrigerator gathering dust for several months? (Not speaking to anyone in particular...) Choose a small activity that feels approachable and tends to your little nest.

5. Be Kinder To Yourself

I will say it in bold and I will say it again. Be kinder to yourself. Please. Winter is a time of rest and slowness. This season is a gorgeous time for introspection, gentleness, inward love and cozy restoration. We humans simply cannot keep up with the expectations of the digital age. It's okay to let yourself be a person, slow down and meet yourself where you are. You don't need anyone's permission, but here it is anyway.

Final Thoughts

I didn't realize when I started the post that when I said "curbing the winter blues from inside" I meant both from inside your home, but also from within.

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of struggle. Even small, quiet gestures like stretching in bed, lighting a candle, or sending a quick voice memo can make a difference. Give yourself permission to move slowly, to feel deeply, and to care for yourself in ways that actually nurture you.

That’s more than enough.

Sending love and warmth,

Kris