In the past, I have found January to be a difficult and gloomy month; all the joy and bright lights from the holidays are gone, and left is a long stretch of dark winter days. In recent years I have come to realize that it doesn’t have to be this way. Why does all the light have to go on New Year’s Day? I have begun decorating for winter; it’s a sort of modified holiday season for me that is about snow, winter whites, and coziness, and still involves plenty of string lights. For me, it’s the perfect transition from Christmas to January. I also put a strong priority on self-care and organized, structured days that focus on my well-being to keep me from falling into a lazy, groggy slump this month. Now more than ever, I think we need that light and love for ourselves.
As for decorating, I stuck with a winter white color scheme, full of soft textures, neutral elements, and of course my string and fairy lights from the holidays. I think winter needs as much gentle comfort lighting as it can get. I placed seasonal books on the living room bookshelf – reads that remind me of the winter season. I incorporated a mix of white sparkly bottle brush trees and wintry florals, and I hung my pom-pom garland, a playful detail that brings me joy. I also took away the plaid blanket in favor of a large, ultra-soft and cozy white one to snuggle with each day and night.
As for my well-being, I have been building on the routines and habits I already have – for example, drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning and taking daily walks. I created a time-structured morning and evening routine for myself (which has been a little more fluid in the past), and I organized my phone into an aesthetically-pleasing space full of widgets that inspire me, comfort me, and remind me of my routines. I now practice my French on Babbel every morning while I drink my tea, and I meditate daily. I have also committed to this year’s Yoga with Adriene 30-day journey and have been consistently completing this practice. I need this structure especially now in the winter; it helps keep me focused, balanced, and feeling good.
Learning to savor winter takes time, patience, and practice. I would encourage you to focus on what feels lovely to you this month. It might be hanging up a strand of lights again, carving out thirty minutes of daily time to read a novel, working on a beautiful puzzle, or walking in the fresh air after each work day. How will you find joy and prioritize your well-being this month?
P.S. More posts for winter.
