Simple Guide for the Shift to Winter

Ruby Laemmel
Nov 12
4 min read

Winter is upon us, and I don't know about you, but my body and mind are feeling the change in the weather. I feel like I have been trying to keep up with all that is going on while also trying to stay healthy and mindful in my everyday life. Finding this balance can be difficult, but you are not alone. Just remember to breathe. Slowly and deeply. And care for your body and mind in the best way that you can.

The colder months of Winter can be daunting, but they are also a natural invitation to slow down, reflect, and really be in tune with your body and mind. Winter also offers quality time with family and friends, which is nurturing in itself. Embrace the cold by looking at the warmth of rest, quality time with loved ones, and self-kindness. This Winter, we invite you to follow along on some of these simple habits that can support you during these months of cold.

Finding Balance

Fall is busy; it may seem like a time to slow down, but sometimes this transition season feels like a scramble to get it all in before the cold creeps in and the holiday season is upon us. Finding the balance between doing and resting is important. Try taking a few minutes each morning to check in with your body. Ask yourself, "What do I need today? Energy or Rest?" Then listen to it!

If your body needs energy, try doing a workout, or embrace the outdoors and go for a walk. Maybe get some chores done around the house that you haven't done in months. If your body needs rest, make some tea and read a book, take a bath, or meditate. Taking your body's needs and listening will help you feel your best and create balance throughout the transition of seasons.

Add Nourishment Everywhere

Depending on where you live, Winter can be frigid. When your body is cold and tense, it is harder for it to function properly. Take warm showers, baths, and saunas (if you are lucky to have one accessible). Warm and soothe your inner temperature. Drink herbal teas that nourish your taste buds and your stomach. Eat seasonal grounding foods such as soups, stews, and roasted veggies. Practice detoxing your body by adding garlic, ginger, and turmeric to your meals, drinking hearty broths, and warm lemon water.

Detox The Mind

The mind and body work together, and when one is out of balance, so is the other. Winter may challenge the mind; it's colder, you're inside more, and it's darker outside. This season is filled with emotion between the weather and the various holidays scattered throughout. That is why it is the perfect time to practice mind detoxing! You can do this by dumping your thoughts each day for 3-5 minutes in a journal. Just set a timer and put every thought, feeling, and heaviness from your brain on paper. Then leave it, without judgment, there on that page.

You can also try meditations, yoga, and breathing techniques, which are all ways to pause and slow the mind down. Find what works for you and add it to your routine.

Practice Kindness

To yourself and others. Instead of being self-critical, shift your thought process to say "I am doing the best I can right now.". This can also be projected to those around you; everyone is trying to do the best they can. Focus on you and your needs, protect your peace, and support those who are supporting you. We are stronger together, and kindness is at the center of our relationships.

Winter Wisdom

Humans are meant to live by nature, eat when there is still light in the sky, and hunker down and sleep when it is dark. Listening to the season that you are in, whether that's winter or summer, can be healing. Now, I am not saying that you must follow the light and darkness of every day and be strict with your cycle. But maybe pick one ritual that follows the nature of Winter that works with your lifestyle.

Maybe you eat when the sky is still light, and stop as soon as it is dark. You could practice turning off screens when the sky is dark and turning instead to a book or a board game with your family. Maybe you practice waking up with the sun if you are an early riser, and doing some journaling or meditations. Whatever works for your body and mind to stay connected to nature's rhythm.

A Reminder

This is a thoughtful reminder that you are not alone in this major shift of seasons; most people are feeling the shift. Lean on others and allow others to lean on you for support. Accept kindness when it is offered and give when you are able to. There is balance in the world; we just need to find it, and it all starts within. The mind and the body work together; treat them like a team and do what is best for you as an individual.

Looking for Support?

We are here for you. If you are in search of support for your metabolic health, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our lovely consultants want to help you through our one-on-one consulting. We also offer energy work, such as Reiki, and exercise consultations.