33 Winter Self-Care Ideas to Stay Happy & Healthy

In this post, discover the best winter self-care ideas designed to boost your mood during the colder months, create more moments of relaxation, and help you stay happy and healthy this season!

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Beat the Winter Blues

For years, January to March felt like the longest, gloomiest stretch. I dreaded those dark, freezing days that made spring feel lightyears away.

Growing up in Toronto, long winters and endless snow were a part of life, but honestly, I didn’t love them, and those months felt heavy.

Things started to shift when I focused more on my personal growth – deepening my faith, going to therapy, and being intentional about self-care. Slowly, winter didn’t feel as unbearable; it’s become more peaceful and even enjoyable at times. Still, I wouldn’t mind if it wrapped up a little sooner! ☺️

Thrive With The Power of Self-Care

Winter self-care has been a game-changer for me. It’s how I nurture my body and mind during the colder months, and I’m excited to share my favourite ways to stay grounded and make the season brighter with you.

A few essentials keep me feeling happy and positive. Taking vitamins (#1) helps boost my mood and energy, especially with little sunlight. Practicing daily gratitude (#9) reminds me to appreciate small joys like snowfall or a cozy cup of tea. Joyful movement (#15) keeps me active without the pressure of intense workouts, and staying socially connected (#24)—whether through breakfasts and outings with friends, volunteering, or church—helps me feel uplifted and less alone.

If winter tends to bring you down, my 30-Day Mental Health Challenge is a must-try this season, and it comes with a free planner!

Why Self-Care Is Important

Winter self-care is a powerful tool for navigating the challenges of colder, darker months because it encourages you to slow down, listen to your needs, and create moments of peace and joy amidst the seasonal gloom.

Whether through cozy rituals, nourishing your body, or practicing mindfulness, self-care helps restore balance and fight the winter blues.

Related post: Self-Care Sundays: 60 Ultimate Ideas to Relax & Recharge

33 Winter Self-Care Ideas to Stay Happy & Healthy

1. Boost Your Vitamin Game (Consult Your Doctor First)

Winter doesn’t have to drag you down—giving your body the nutrients it craves can make a big difference, as it has for me. Vitamin D is essential when sunlight is scarce—it can lift your mood, strengthen immunity, and support bone health. (1) Vitamin C helps fight off colds, boosts iron absorption, and may even improve your memory. (2) Another important one is vitamin B-12 for energy and mood support—find it in whole grains, red meat, and legumes. (3)

💡Note: Always consult a medical professional before starting new vitamins or supplements or making significant diet changes because knowing what’s right for you is essential.

2. Enjoy Warm Seasonal Drinks

Treat yourself to a relaxing drink like apple cider, hot cocoa, mulled wine, or a spiced chai latte, and drink it by the fireplace or outside by a fire pit to make it extra cozy. 

3. Freshen Up Your Winter Wardrobe for Cozy Days

Take some time to swap your summer clothes for cozy knits, scarves, and warm layers, so you’re prepared for the season. Decluttering is a therapeutic activity; it helps make getting dressed easier (and more fun).

4. Glow All Winter with a Simple Skincare Ritual

Winter can be pretty harsh on your skin, so use a good SPF and nourishing serum, or try a red-light therapy face massager (this one is in my cart!). Don’t forget a quality lip balm and a good moisturizing hand cream because your lips and hands are exposed to the harsh weather.

5. Hang Fresh Eucalyptus in the Shower 

Winter can feel monotonous, so do unexpected things to elevate your daily routine, like adding the calming scent of eucalyptus to your shower or bath. Head to a florist or gardening centre to pick up some fresh eucalyptus. When you hang it in your shower, the steam activates it, which creates a mini spa experience at home.

More Winter Activities…

6. Self-Soothe With Your Senses (Daily Rituals) 

Self-soothing with your senses is based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a psychotherapy that focuses on balancing opposites. It teaches two key strategies: accepting your feelings and experiences and working on positive changes to manage emotions better and move forward. (4) Here are some ideas to try:

• Sight – Go for a nature walk or watch the snowfall. Birdwatching is calming and so pretty in the winter months.
• Hearing – Listen to spa music, classical or nature sounds.
• Touch—Warm up with a bubble bath, cozy socks, or a soft robe.
• Taste – Bake cookies, sip on tea, or try a new hearty winter recipe.
• Smell – Light a seasonal candle, diffuse essential oils or bring fresh flowers or herbs like mint into your space.

7. Find Joy with These Winter Activities

Embrace the winter and snow like the Norwegians do. Bundle up in layers and quality winter gear and head out for fun tobogganing, snow tubing, sledding, or cross-country skiing for fresh, crisp air and sunshine.

8. Cozy Up and Chill

There’s nothing better than curling up with a soft thermal or throw blanket, a good book, and a hot drink. This is one of the simplest winter self-care ideas.

9. Start Each Day with Gratitude to Brighten Your Winter 

Winter can feel long and dreary, but practicing gratitude is an easy yet powerful way to shift your mindset. Start small—try a one-line gratitude journal or fill a jar with notes to capture little joys each day. Cultivating thankfulness will help winter feel brighter.

10. Set Intentions for the Year with a Vision Board 

Cozy up with magazines, printouts, and craft supplies to map out your goals or dreams for the year. It’s a fun and inspiring way to stay motivated during the colder months, and having it somewhere you often see it helps keep you accountable.

Self-Care For Winter Continues…

11. Transform Your Space with Cozy Winter Decor

Bring winter vibes indoors with soft throws, twinkling lights, and rich seasonal colours like deep reds, greens, and warm neutrals. House decorating can brighten your space and mood and doesn’t have to be expensive. Try an antique market for unique finds or a dollar store for surprising little gems they get.

12. Create a Stress-Relief Kit for Tough Days

Think of this as a comfort box for when life feels overwhelming. Include things you love—candles, your favourite tea, a soft blanket or cute stuffed toy, quality dark chocolate, shower steamers, or nostalgic items like old photos or letters. Having this ready makes self-soothing effortless when you need it most.

Related post: 38 Must-Have Relaxing Stress-Relief Gift Basket Ideas

13. Cook Yummy Comfort Foods 

Warm up your kitchen (and heart) with homemade and hearty soups, chilli and breads. There’s nothing more comforting than a home that smells like fresh baking.

14.  Unwind and Relax with a Rejuvenating Massage 

Release tension and boost circulation with a massage by a registered massage therapist, a classic and essential self-care idea for which your muscles and relaxed mind will thank you!

Some of My Fave Winter Activities…

15.  Embrace Joyful Movement

Joyful movement is about moving your body in ways that feel good to you – no pressure, no guilt, just pure enjoyment. It’s about celebrating what your body can do, not punishing or trying to transform it completely. Forget the “no pain, no gain” mentality. Joyful movement is physical activity, but it isn’t about weight loss or diet culture; it’s about being active in enjoyable ways.

Some ideas for joyful movement:

• Dancing sessions in your living room (dance your heart out!)
• Yoga, pilates or stretching
• Rollerblading
• Jumping rope or hula hooping
• Swimming or biking
• Playing with your kids or pets

You’re in control – some days it’s high energy, other days it’s rest. The only rule? Move daily in a way that makes you happy.

16. Give Your Home a Fresh Start with a Winter Declutter 

Tackle those “I’ll get to it later” areas—drawers, closets, and forgotten corners. A decluttered space feels refreshing and is a productive way to pass time on winter days.

17. Release Tension and Stress with Progressive Muscle Relaxation

This is a great way to wind down by tensing and relaxing each muscle group because it’s a simple yet effective way to reduce winter stress and improve sleep. Here is a detailed pdf on how to do progressive muscle relaxation.

18. Create a Cozy Nook 

If you don’t have one, make a comfy reading or relaxation corner with warm lighting, blankets, and candles in your home. It’ll be your new go-to spot for unwinding and destressing after a long day or when winter storms hit.

Winter Self-Care Ideas Continued…

19. Take a Mindful Winter Walk with a Warm Drink

Bundle up and head outside for a peaceful walk, thermos in hand. Take in all the pretty sights, catch some snowflakes, and be intentional about taking everything in and being present. The crisp air and warm drink combo can be pure magic.

20. Boost Your Well-Being with Mindful Eating 

Take a cue from Mediterranean living and slow down during meals for a healthy winter self-care idea. Mindful eating is about slowing down, savouring the flavours and textures of your food, and enjoying the calming moments when you can nourish your body and pause from your busy day.

This way of eating is a mindfulness activity that is excellent for digestion, enhances mental well-being, and makes food more enjoyable.

21. Snuggle Up in Style with Cozy, Luxe Loungewear 

You deserve some simple luxury, so treat yourself to some stylish loungewear. A soft new robe, comfy trousers or cozy PJs feels like a warm hug. You can slip into them for your calming day at home or your daily evening downtime in style.

22. Spread Warmth and Kindness with a Winter Donation

Spread warmth by donating blankets, winter coats, hats, and hand warmers to local shelters. Little things like socks and gloves can make a difference for someone facing the cold.

More Relaxing Winter Self-Care Ideas…

23. Fight Off Winter Germs with Simple Hand Care

Cold and flu season is in full swing, so prioritize handwashing. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds—especially after being in public spaces. Carry a quality hand sanitizer or wipes for moments when you can’t wash up.

24. Keep Your Connections Strong Through Winter’s Chill 

It’s essential to stay connected to help beat the winter blues. Try starting a book club, planning monthly brunch dates, or attending community and church events. Positive and regular social interaction is good for our mind, body and soul!

25. Become a 30-Day Challenge Master

Spice up winter by trying a new 30-day challenge each month, such as self-care, no-spending, having a dry month, daily journaling, or my 30-day mental health challenge, which is excellent for beating the winter blues. Challenges are an easy and fun way to build healthy habits and stay engaged.

26. Bring Nature Indoors 

Brighten your space (and mood) by bringing in greenery. Buy some house plants as they add life to any room and improve air quality. Caring for plants is also a simple but grounding self-care ritual. Or try making a natural potpourri with pine cones, dried flowers or fruits and vanilla or cinnamon sticks. 

27. Treat Yourself to Simple Pleasures for Winter Wellness

Plan an at-home spa day or book a professional treatment, such as a facial, hot stone massage, or mani-pedi. These little indulgences help to keep you calm and create intentional self-care moments in your life.

The Final Winter Self-Care Ideas…

28. Fill Your Home with the Cozy Scent of Cinnamon

Fill your home with the heavenly scent of cinnamon by baking cinnamon rolls from scratch, cookies, or bread. It’s winter comfort food at its best.

29. Glide into Fun with Regular Ice Skating Sessions 

Whether on a frozen lake or a local rink, ice skating is a perfect winter self-care activity that’s a peaceful way to enjoy the winter wonderland scenery while getting some exercise.

30. Try a New Craft or Hobby to Embrace Winter’s Slow Pace

Winter is the perfect time to try knitting, crocheting, or embroidery. Crafting something with your hands is both therapeutic and rewarding.

31. Create an Exciting Reading List 

Pick out classics or any books you’ve meant to read and make a pretty checklist on paper. Whether fiction, personal growth, devotionals or cozy mysteries, an interesting reading list will help keep you entertained and checking off your progress is rewarding.

32. Level-Up Your Nutrition 

Small additions can make a positive difference to your wellness. Sprinkle cinnamon, ginger, saffron or turmeric into some of your meals or drinks for their immunity-boosting properties. (5)  Add psyllium fibre for better digestion and gut health. Mix protein powder into oatmeal, pancakes, or smoothies to stay full and energized for an easy protein boost.

**Always consult your healthcare practitioner for the best options to ensure they’re right for you.**

33. Be Creative and Enjoy Winter Self-Care with a New Class

Try something new, like candle-making, cookie decorating, calligraphy or pottery. Learning something new gives you a creative outlet and a way to break out of tedious daily routines.

Wrapping Up: Winter Self-Care Ideas for a Happier, Healthier Season

Winter self-care is all about giving yourself the time and attention you deserve during a season that can feel challenging. Focusing on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being in the winter is a great way to enjoy the season more fully. 

From staying active to practicing mindfulness and nurturing your connections, winter self-care helps you stay healthy, balanced, and energized. Remember to embrace self-compassion and find those little moments of happiness that make it all the more enjoyable. By prioritizing your wellness, you’ll thrive and make the most of the winter months ahead!

Related post: 50 Summer Self-Care Ideas for Relaxation & Fun

References:

1. What Is Vitamin D?
   2. 7 Impressive Benefits of Vitamin C Supplements
   3. Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
   4. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) | CAMH
   5. Powerful herbs and spices: 25 alternatives to salt and sugar | BHF