It may be spring semester, but the weather outside certainly doesn’t feel like spring. The months from January to March can feel like a drag with the cold temperatures and early sunsets. It can be easy to slip into a slump when the weather makes you want to stay in bed under the covers. However, a little self care can go a long way in lifting your spirits despite the season.
When you think of “self care,” face masks and manicures might come to mind. While these are great ways to pamper yourself, there are plenty of others that don’t cost any money at all. One of my favorite forms of self care is moving my body. This may be the last thing you want to do in the cold weather, but physical activity is proven to improve mood by releasing endorphins. You don’t need to do an intense workout to get these endorphins flowing. Walks are one of my favorite forms of exercise because they’re low intensity and a great way to clear your mind. I love listening to a comedy podcast like Giggly Squad or an educational podcast like Mel Robbins’ while getting my steps in.
Another great form of exercise is a workout class. It can be comforting to be surrounded by others while working out and a class may hold you more accountable to show up. The RecPlex offers a wide variety of free workout classes including Spin, Zumba and Pilates, so there’s something for everyone.
Journaling is another great way to combat the winter blues. It can be refreshing to put all of your thoughts down on paper. If you don’t know where to start, you can write about the things you’re feeling negative about to get them out of your head, followed by things you’re grateful for or looking forward to, to end on a positive note.
One form of self care I haven’t yet mastered is meditating. There are plenty of free meditation videos on YouTube that you can follow. I find it hard to shut my mind off and fully lean into meditation, but it’s something I’m trying to learn. It can be a relaxing exercise before bed or when you need a moment to recharge.
During these winter months, self care should be a priority. If possible, you can incorporate one self care day a week, or at least commit a few hours to focusing on you.
Brooke Benz, senior psychology major, said her idea of self care is, “Taking an hour each day to do something that makes me happy – going for a walk, meal prepping, spending time with friends, or watching a show.”
I love the idea of a “Self Care Sunday” where you use the day to do your favorite things and reset for the week. Every once in a while I like to treat myself to a fun beverage, like a Chef’s Table iced latte, to reward myself for getting through another chilly week of winter.
Self care doesn’t have to be expensive and can be as simple as watching your favorite comfort show or movie. My comfort show is Gilmore Girls, and I look forward to putting it on and having a cup of hot tea at the end of a long day. Whatever form of self care you choose, make sure to prioritize your mental and physical health this winter and every season.
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