Nature’s on a Break—Maybe You Should Be Too? Winter Self-Care Tips

It’s cold. It’s dark. Even here, in the usually sunny Catalonian countryside, today feels like a true winter day. The sky is heavy, the air is crisp, and there’s a quiet stillness outside. A few years ago, I would have hated this.

Back then, I was deep in the hustle culture—working late, pushing harder, always thinking about what more I could do. Rest felt like a waste of time. Slowing down felt like falling behind.

Then, during the pandemic, I left the city and moved to the countryside. At first, it felt strange. The silence, the darkness, the lack of rush. But as I spent more time outside, I started noticing things I had never paid attention to before—the trees letting go of their leaves, the sun setting in a completely different spot than in the summer, the way nature just was, without forcing itself to be in full bloom all the time.

And something clicked.

We are part of nature, too. So why do we expect ourselves to be in constant spring and summer mode—always growing, always producing, always on?

The Season of Resting, Not Stopping

Winter doesn’t mean doing nothing. But it does mean doing things differently.

This is a season for slowing down, reflecting, and listening to yourself. It’s for deep breaths, warm drinks, and quiet moments. It’s for making space—not just in your schedule, but in your mind.

And yet, we resist it. Society teaches us that productivity = worth. That slowing down is laziness. That we should always be improving. But that’s not how life works. That’s not how we work.

The Science of Winter: Why You Feel Different

If you’ve been feeling tired, unmotivated, or just off lately—you’re not imagining it. Winter affects our bodies and minds, and understanding why can help us work with it instead of against it.

🌥️ Your Internal Clock is Off → Less sunlight disrupts your circadian rhythm, making it harder to feel energized and focused.

🎈 Your Mood-Regulating Chemicals Shift → Sunlight boosts serotonin (the “feel-good” chemical). In winter, lower serotonin levels can lead to sluggishness, lower motivation, and mood dips.

😴 Your Body Thinks It’s Bedtime → Darkness triggers higher melatonin production—the hormone that makes you feel sleepy. If you feel drained all day, this is why.

But just because winter feels different doesn’t mean it has to feel bad. Instead of fighting it, what if we leaned into it? What if we worked with the season instead of against it?

Winter Self-Care Tips for Boosting Your Mood

Winter naturally affects our mood—shorter days, less sunlight, and colder weather all play a role. Instead of fighting against it, let’s focus on small, sustainable shifts that can help lift your energy and improve your mood.

🌤️ Morning Light Boost

Sunlight = Energy. Less light in winter affects serotonin and melatonin, which influence mood and sleep. The fix? Expose yourself to natural light as soon as possible after waking up.

• Get outside for 10 minutes—even if it's cloudy.

• Go for a brisk walk (or, if that’s not your vibe, just step out onto the balcony).

• No outdoor space? Sit by a window and let the daylight hit your face for a few minutes.

  
  

🧘🏻‍♀️ Move in a Way That Feels Good

You don’t need a full workout—just sneak movement into your day:

• Dance while making coffee  - Yes, even if it's ridiculous.

• Put on music & clean your space - Bonus: It clears your mind too.

• Stretch while waiting for your tea to steep - Movement releases endorphins, which naturally boost mood and fight sluggishness.

🍵 Add One Mood-Boosting Ritual Per Day

Tiny moments of joy add up. Try:

• Watching a short, feel-good video (puppies? Comedy clips? ASMR?)

• Making yourself a fancy coffee or tea —the kind that feels like a treat.

• Texting someone who always makes you laugh.

🍜 Eat for Energy & Comfort

Your brain and body need fuel to regulate your mood. In winter, focus on:

• Serotonin-boosting foods – Omega-3s (salmon, walnuts), complex carbs (oats, quinoa)

• Vitamin D sources – Fatty fish, mushrooms, eggs, or supplements.

• Something that just feels good – A comforting soup, a nostalgic dish from childhood.

Try one of each category of these Winter Self-care Tips and see how it affects your mood!

💡 Ready to Feel Like You Again?

Winter isn’t about forcing productivity—it’s about adjusting to what supports you. If you’re struggling with motivation or need guidance, coaching can help.

Reach out—I’d love to support you. 💌