Survival Mental Tools I'm Taking Into This Winter

Like it or not, winter is here.

There's limited sunlight, limited warmth, and this winter in particular, limited social capabilities.

And in a year where many of us have been struck with grief, loss, anxiety and uncertainty, we all need to buckle up mentally to survive this winter.

A positive winter mindset is the first step. And then, many more steps to follow. So hurry, before it snows again!

Get your outdoorphins going!

Embrace 'friluftsliv', the Norwegian concept of " free air life ". If Scandinavians can simultaneously live with the longest, darkest winters yet are consistently considered the happiest people on earth, they're doing something- or everything- right, right?

Always have something to look forward to.

So there's no Maldives vacation this winter. Or Mallorca or let's say, Miami Florida. But that's okay. Clutter or ill your calendar with things you are looking forward to-even if it's a trip to the dentist-anything. No matter how innocuous they seem. Maybe you're looking forward to a coffee date with your friends, or a mini road trip with the hubby. In a year where time simultaneously sped up and slowed down, having something to look forward to, keeps your world turning.

Direct your energy towards things you can control.

You are not Mother Nature, nor are you Father Time. So no, the weather is out of your control. Here's what you are in control of- your attitude, how you react to things that happen around you, how often you move your body, what measures you take to take care of yourself, how much time or money you spend to donate to certain causes, or the words you chose to say to your loved ones. Focus on the aspects of life you can control.

Invest in items that will make your winter more manageable.

A meat masher might not be the most thrilling purchase in your credit card statement but if it makes your winter much more manageable-by all means, buy it! What other purchases would make your winter easier? Or warmer? Wool socks, a cozy blanket scarf, or maybe an scented candle. Whatever that may be, be mindful of your budget and especially now, prioritize what would most benefit you this winter.

Love and appreciate your space again.

Consider what would make your inside space, where you've spent the most of your time lately. Hang an obnoxious amount of decor if you feel the need. More importantly though, surround yourself with pictures, art, photos, pillows, you name it- that feel like you.

Embrace impermanence.

Nothing lasts forever- a presidency, a pandemic, a season. Winter always turns into spring eventually, even if January seems to last longer than thirty-one days. The birds will migrate north, and the lilacs will bloom.

Emphasize what's special to winter.

Can't make a snow angel in July, can you? Instead of lamenting on breezy dresses and sunny beach days, pay attention to what's special to winter. My annual sip of eggnog, for one. Or my cozy and comfortable sweaters for two. And embarrassingly early bedtimes, check.

Find warmth.

Scented candles, coffee, a hot cup of tea or chocolate. Nostalgic movies. Handwritten letters. Baby photos.

Redirect negative thoughts to positive ones.

Shoveling a driveway is exhausting! But hey, Congrats! Your workout is done for the day. There's always an upside. Find it.

Stay connected.

Zoom and messenger happy hours are not as novel as they once were, but it's important to your mental health to stay in contact with your people this winter. Humans are meant for connectivity.

Remind yourself how good you have it.

Chances are, you have four walls, a roof over your head, a nice cozy bed, and a nice pair of mittens. Many others aren't as lucky. Consider how you can help the homeless in your community this winter. From donating gently used coats, or shoes to your local homeless shelters or simply donating your time to volunteer is an act of kindness.

So, these are some tools that I'm for sure am going to equip myself this winter. Pause, reflect, and find meaning in chaos.

Drink a hot cup of tea of coffee. See you in spring!

XOXO,

Karen