Family Lifestyle Blog: 14 Winter Survival Strategies

A couple of years ago, when my family and I lived in downtown Boston, I found that the chilly winter season wasn’t all that bad. The hustle and bustle of the city helped me keep the winter blues at bay. Living in the suburbs, and now working from home, the long, dark winter days have become a little more challenging. In order to combat the inevitable, I’ve started thinking about winter goal setting, creating rituals, and working towards keeping a positive mindset amidst the cold. Here are a few survival strategies I’ve come up with. Most of these may sound too obvious but writing them down and using as a reference can help provide a quick winter pick-me-up!

1. Finesse your cooking skills: Use the cold weather as an impetus to cook hearty, elaborate meals and soul-soothing soups and stews. Yank out those unused cookbooks and try some fun recipes. If you have kids, involve them in the kitchen and make cooking a fun family activity.

2. Embrace your home: Light some candles, play soothing music and stay cozy. Make your living environment more enjoyable, especially when going outside isn’t an option.

3. Mind over matter: Bundle up and brave the cold! Go for long walks, maybe stopping at your favorite coffee shop to warm up, and embrace the weather. After all, winter holds its own type of magic.

4. Pick up a winter hobby: Something to look forward to in your spare time! Skiing, ice skating or anything else that’s either seasonal or you usually don’t seem to find time for in the warmer months.

5. Hygge like the Danes: Cuddle up by the fireplace with a good book or stream every series on Netflix you’ve ever wanted to. Give yourself permission to relax.

6. Entertain more: Nip that winter isolation in the bud and get intentional about planning activities that encourage social interaction. Host a wine and cheese night or share a meal with friends/neighbors. Coffee break with a friend is a sure shot winner!

7. Channel your inner #konmari (all the rage these days that I don’t quite get but perhaps a conversation for some other time): Work on some pending home organization projects. I’ve had a photo organizing project pending for years!

8. Mid winter break: Take a trip to get through the season or simply pretend to plan warm weather escapades to keep your spirits up.

9. Step up your winter fashion game: I’m guilty of hiding inside a puffer jacket and tall boots all winter long. It’s my everyday uniform - especially living in New England. Taking an effort to dress up and adding some color to your winter wardrobe can be so refreshing. Even accessorising and putting on some makeup goes a long way. It’s the little things, right?

10. Boost your skin care regimen: Use a humidifier, and keep your body hydrated and nourished. Soaking in a warm bath after a long day can help elevate your mood and help you sleep better.

11. Bring greenery inside: A hint of green inside the house can brighten up the space and can provide much needed change of scenery. Simply buying flowers at your next grocery store visit can help liven up your space, too.

12. Don’t forget to exercise: Always saves my day! Endorphins are all too real and a necessary friend when avoiding the winter blues.

13. Indulge in fun family rituals: Playing board games, movie nights, bookstore visits, or dance parties! Not only will family activities make you smile, but they’ll help your loved ones keep a positive mindset as well.

14. Engage in cultural activities around town: Theatre, concerts, or museums are great ways to get out of the house and change up your routine.

Switching it up and staying intentional are important, especially during this time of year! What are your tricks and tips for staying cheery in the winter months?