The Art of Wintering: A Thrive Guide

Let’s be honest—winter can be a little challenging. The cold winds, the constant need to layer up, and the temptation to hibernate until further notice. But here’s the thing: winter doesn’t have to be a season of survival. It can be a season of thriving—body and mind. It’s about creating the perfect balance between warmth, wellness, and, yes, a little bit of fun.

Over the years, we’ve embraced winter as an opportunity to lean into the slower pace and focus on self-care. Through trial and error, we’ve shaped a few go-to habits and activities that make the colder months genuinely enjoyable. These routines have kept us engaged, motivated, and thriving—and we believe they could do the same for you. After all, winter is the perfect time to try something new and find joy in small comforts.

1. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

There’s something about winter that makes me want to curl up with a book and disappear for a few hours. Maybe it’s the way the wind carries on outside, or how the cold makes me feel like I have to stay inside and make the most of the time. Either way, I’ve found that creating a cozy reading nook is one of the best ways to embrace winter. It’s like giving yourself permission to shut out the world for a while.

Picture this: a comfy chair, a throw blanket to wrapping yourself in (because why not?), and a cup of something warm—hot chocolate, tea, or whatever else you need to convince yourself that winter isn’t all bad. It’s in these little moments of quiet that I can really unwind and recharge.

Product Idea: LED Floor Lamp – This sleek lamp lets you adjust the brightness, so you can get the lighting just right for your reading nook. Plus, it won’t make your electric bill cry like old incandescent bulbs. Win-win!

2. Practice Gentle Movement

The idea of running through the snow (or wet landscape) for some might sound nice. Until it isn't or simply makes you retreat indoors. No worries—winter doesn’t mean you need to give up on being active. Gentle movement is key to staying limber and keeping your energy up. Yoga and stretching are fantastic ways to do this without breaking a sweat.

I like to do a short routine in the morning. It’s not about perfection—it’s about the act of doing something for yourself. Trust me, those 10 minutes of stretching will feel like a win, especially when you’ve got your favorite warm cup waiting at the end.

Perfect Pairing: Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat – This yoga mat is perfect for all those stretches and gentle movements you’ve been meaning to do. It’s thick enough to support you, because let’s face it, we all need a mat that doesn’t slide around when you’re trying to figure out if you’re in downward dog or an awkward pile of blankets.

3. Experiment with Winter Recipes

Ah, winter recipes. The season where we convince ourselves that soups and stews are practically health food, right? Well, I’m here to tell you—they absolutely are. Over the years, our house has learned to appreciate the process of slow cooking hearty dishes. A favorite go-to? A pot of vegetable soup. We put in whatever we find in the fridge—onions, carrots, celery, spinach, zucchini, maybe a potato or two—and let it simmer while doing absolutely nothing productive.

The great part about these recipes is that they’re forgiving. You can tweak them to match whatever you’ve got on hand, and, before you know it, you’ve got a meal that warms both your belly and your soul. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about the smell of a slow-cooked stew filling your house—it's like winter's way of saying, “Downtime...relax.”

Top Pick for the Job: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker – This magical kitchen device does all the heavy lifting for you. It can make soups, stews, and everything in between—and it’s quick! Perfect for when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours cooking.

4. Engage in Seasonal Crafts

Okay, I’ll admit it: I’m not the kind of person who gets excited about craft stores in the winter. But I have friends and family who have shown me there’s something so comforting about taking time to create something with your hands. And winter crafts don’t have to be complicated or Pinterest-perfect (unless that’s your thing, in which case, go ahead!).

I’ve found organizing to be my winter therapy. No, I’m not color-coding every book or alphabetizing spices (more like something STU would do). Sometimes it’s as simple as finally sorting through that stack of vinyl records, cleaning and grouping them. Other days, it’s tackling the garage or giving the kitchen drawers a long-overdue refresh. And if I find something I thought I lost ages ago, it’s like a little winter treasure hunt. Plus, nothing beats the satisfying feeling of starting the new year with a bit less chaos.

Craft Product Idea: Cricut Joy Machine – If you’re into crafting (or trying to pretend you’re good at it), the Cricut Joy is a game-changer. You can make everything from personalized cards to labels to cute holiday decorations in no time. It’s a great way to bring a little creativity into those long winter nights.

5. Invest in Light Therapy

Does the lack of sunlight during winter get to you? If walking out of work at 5 PM into total darkness feels like the universe is pulling a cruel prank, you’re not alone. For many, the limited light can take a toll on mood and energy levels. That’s where light therapy can help.

A light therapy lamp is like having a mini dose of sunshine on demand. Just 20–30 minutes a day—while sipping your morning cup or reading—can make a difference. It’s a simple way to brighten your winter days and keep your spirits high, even when the sky insists on staying gray.

Product Idea: Verilux HappyLight Therapy Lamp – This therapy lamp is bright, portable, and perfect for bringing some natural daylight into your home. You can even adjust the brightness, so it’s not like staring into headlights. Plus, it looks sleek enough to blend into your home office or living room.

6. Take a Winter Walk (Yes, Even in the Cold)

I know what you’re thinking—“A walk? In this weather?” But hear me out: winter walks hit differently. There’s something magical about the crunch of snow (or lush ground) underfoot or spotting that one squirrel who seems equally annoyed by the cold. Bundle up to your liking (hat, scarf, gloves, and possibly half your closet), and suddenly, you’re in your own winter wonderland.

For me, a winter walk is like hitting the reset button. Whether it’s a short stroll around the neighborhood or a wander through a park, it clears my head and makes me feel alive. Bonus points if you come back to a warm drink or meal waiting for you.

Keep it warm and comfy: Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Insulated Snow Boot – These boots are warm, waterproof, and stylish enough to make you feel like you’re conquering Everest (or at least the icy driveway). Plus, they’ve got great traction for when the sidewalk turns into an ice rink.

7. Try Journaling or Reflective Writing

There’s something about winter that invites introspection. Maybe it’s the long evenings or the way snow muffles the noise of the outside world. Either way, this season is perfect for grabbing a journal and jotting down your thoughts. I started journaling a few winters ago, and while some days it’s just a list of things I ate, other days it feels like a deep dive into my own mind.

It doesn’t have to be profound—write about the weather, your puzzling dream from last night, or that time you embarrassed yourself in public and tried to play it cool (we’ve all been there). It’s not about perfection; it’s about showing up for yourself and finding clarity in the day-to-day.

Write Away: Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Journal – This journal is sleek, durable, and filled with smooth pages that make writing feel effortless. Bonus: it comes in tons of colors, so you can pick one that matches your winter vibe.

8. Master the Art of Hygge

Hygge (pronounced hyoo-guh) is the Danish concept of coziness, and let me tell you, they know what they’re doing. It’s about creating moments of comfort and joy, whether it’s lighting candles, baking cookies, or just lounging under a pile of blankets with your favorite movie. I like to think of it as an excuse to embrace all my favorite lazy winter habits, guilt-free.

A new-ish favorite hygge activity for us is a “blanket fort night.” Yes, I’m an adult, and yes, blanket forts are still magical. Add in some fairy lights, popcorn, a movie marathon, snuggling the pup, and suddenly winter feels a lot less gloomy.

Cozy vibe idea: Battery-Operated LED Fairy Lights – These lights instantly transform any space into a cozy haven. Wrap them around your blanket fort, drape them over a bookshelf, or toss them in a jar for some DIY magic.

Each of these ideas is a little spark to help you thrive through the colder months. Whether it’s journaling your thoughts, cozying up with a new craft, or mastering the Danish art of hygge, there’s no shortage of ways to make winter something to look forward to. After all, thriving isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about finding joy, creativity, and a little laughter along the way.

So, here’s to thriving in winter and beyond. The principles of wintering well don’t need to end when the days start to get brighter and the snow melts. They’re a reminder that we can thrive not just in the cold months, but throughout the entire year. Why not make every season your best season?