Ways to make Winter more enjoyable

Changing our mindset with the season

3 minute read

As we begin to feel the cold and lack of daylight hours, many of us also begin to experience dread. The chilly, grey days can result in low moods, lethargy and a lack of joy. Winter can be physically and mentally tough, often feeling like a time to endure. 

Additionally, our brains are hardwired to focus on the negative. Our negativity bias has ensured human survival, alerting us to threats such as stalking lions.

In the modern era, we’re overloaded with information to assess. The negative focus can lead to feeling anxious and depressed- especially when faced with challenges such as winter.

We can’t change the weather or daylight hours, so what can we do to make winter more enjoyable?

APDO member Jasmine Falconer helps us think about ways to change our mindset to focus on the positive aspects of the season and create homes which support and nourish us.

The Danes experience harsh winters, with temperatures often below zero. So, it’s surprising to know that they top the list of happiest people. Their concept of hygge is fundamental to their happiness and wellbeing. Having a hygge mindset means accepting the challenges and finding ways to embrace the season: creating cosy homes, spending time with family and taking part in seasonal activities. 

Hygge also celebrates the everyday moments: sharing spiced cookies, lighting candles and snuggling on the sofa. It highlights the small gestures, the little connections and the good things we have, but often don’t notice.

Here are 5 ways you can embrace a hygge mindset in your home and life.

1. Declutter your home to clear physical and mental space, so that you can experience a calm, cosy and peaceful environment.

Go through each room and ask yourself if you need, use or love each item. Imagine how you want to feel when you’re in this room. Does this item enhance the feeling or detract from it? 

2. Turn your home into a cosy and welcoming haven. Use soft throws in mixed materials to create texture. Scatter colourful cushions and add warm lighting for an intimate feel. Light candles with seasonal scents and decorate with autumnal foliage and pinecones. Create a reading nook with blankets, a rug and a small table- a place you can while away the hours on a cold and rainy day. 

3. Create routines and rituals to help you relax and replenish. 

Schedule 20 minutes in the morning for a cup of tea. Time to yourself cultivates calm and focus before a busy day.

Decompress in the evening by switching off your phone an hour before you sleep. Take a hot drink to bed and read a book to calm your nervous system.

Create small rituals to add structure to the day. Say good morning to your plants! Sit by a window and enjoy the natural light. Play uplifting music while you get ready for work. 

When you get home, listen to a calming playlist while cooking. Light candles to transition to the evening and wrap yourself in your favourite blanket.

Reset your kitchen and living room before you go to bed. Wipe surfaces, plump cushions and put items back where they belong. 

4. Revitalise your creative side to reduce anxiety and stress. Make decorations for your home, knit a scarf and make Christmas cards or stockings.

Bake seasonal treats such as spice biscuits, cinnamon buns or Christmas cake. A baking ritual adds fun to your weekend, plus you have delicious treats to enjoy!

5. Prepare seasonal food for family and friends. This adds variety to meals and connects us with the changing seasons. Buy locally grown vegetables and use Pinterest for menu ideas. Soups, stews and curries are warming and ideal for a cold winter’s day.

Plan a Sunday meal with family and friends. Decorate your home and create a welcoming atmosphere with candles and music. Make your home a place for celebration and connection.

By creating a hygge mindset and home, we impact our wellbeing and that of others. And the brain science confirms it. Every time we focus positively, give gratitude or celebrate, our brains release dopamine (pleasure hormone), endorphins (mood boosters) and reduce cortisol (stress hormone).

So now we can approach winter, with a calmer and more proactive mindset. And perhaps we can even spread some cheer! 

If you would like a professional to help you create Hygge in your mind and home, take a look at our member's directory today.