Busting the Winter Blues with Slow Living
We’ve compiled six easy tips to use slow living to help bust the winter blues and embrace the season in all its cold and stark beauty. Yes, it is possible! Grab a cup of cocoa or herbal tea and get to reading.
What are the Winter Blues?
The hustle, bustle, and merriment of Christmas has long gone. The lights that cut through the nights have all been stored safely in lofts, and the cold, which may have felt inviting as we donned our favourite winter hats, now seems never-ending. It’s the reality of winter in the UK, and it can seem like a harsh reality at that. It’s no surprise that so many people find January and February tough. And then there’s Bullsh*t sorry.. Blue Monday*, the so-called ‘most depressing day of the year.
For many, colder temperatures and a lack of sunlight can cause their moods or energy levels to drop; the cold may prevent them from participating in outdoor activities or exercising, for example, an activity that generally helps keep their spirits up. There is some research to suggest that there are physiological factors that contribute to peoples’ downward demeanour, including reduced levels of serotonin and L-Tryptophan.
*A Side Note About Bullsh*t Monday
It’s a marketing ploy. Yup, that’s right. Psychologist Cliff Arnall coined it for travel firm Sky Travel in 2004; why? To help sell summer holidays. The thought behind it was that people are running out of cash, already giving up on their New Year resolutions and freezing their bits off, so they’ll want something to look forward to, specifically a beach and a margarita, most likely.
Depression is a real (and serious) condition that affects people all year round, including when the sun is shining and the bluebirds are singing, as well as on whatever day of January Blue Monday falls, likewise Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a recognised medical condition and a form of depression that impacts sufferers in the winter months. We have more information on these conditions and links to resources here.
Six Tips to Embrace Winter and Beat the Blues
As always, slow living is about doing simple things you probably already know will make you feel better and more connected to yourself and your environment. We’re here to give you a little nudge and some tips to make those changes a bit easier.
ONE
Embrace the Season
Reframing winter by challenging negative thoughts about the season and focusing on enjoyable activities can significantly impact your mood. So, curate the cosy, say hello to the act of hygge (hooga) and create a warm atmosphere with things and people you love.
In winter, that might look like crackling fires, candles and twinkly fairy lights (no, you don’t have to take them down after Christmas). It could be snuggling under a blanket with a loved one or a cup of cocoa after a brisk walk with the dog.
TWO
There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather Only Unsuitable Clothing
If it’s the cold that stops you in your tracks in winter (and hey, by the way, we get it), you may be surprised to know that there is a quick and easy solution. Get yourself a winter uniform. Invest in some decent thermals from slow and sustainable fashion brands and layer them under your usual go-to outfits.
Make sure you own a proper coat, one that will genuinely keep you insulated and warm on winter walks, a good pair of socks, a hat and a pair of gloves. We’re fans of walking boots and wellies, but if they’re not your bag, buy a pair of second-hand trainers that you don’t mind getting muddy when you embark on your winter wanders.
THREE
For the Love of Winter Walks
The UK is a country that experiences four distinct seasons, each as magical as the last if you can find the joy in them. If you’ve nailed your winter uniform (see above), then you’re equipped to throw yourself into and delight in winter, specifically nature during winter. Winter in the UK is magical, it is a breathtaking blend of stark beauty, subtle colours, and peacefulness. Silhouettes are dramatic against low-lit skies and frost bejewels the landscape around you. As much wildlife (and people) migrate or hibernate during the season, there is a tranquillity special to this time of the year. It’s also one of our favourite gardening seasons.
Just 20 minutes in nature daily can boost your mood, reduce anxiety and stress and improve your mental wellbeing. WWF have launched a new campaign, ‘A Prescription for Nature’ that can provide more information on how nature can impact your health and includes tips on how to get your daily dose. Couple that with much-needed sunlight and vitamin D, and you’re well on your way to banishing those blues.
FOUR
Try Vitamin L: Light Therapy
Light therapy simulates sunlight and supports your natural circadian rhythm, which may suffer in the darker winter months. The idea is that the light encourages the brain to reduce melatonin and increase serotonin. When used during the day, it is reported to increase energy levels and put you in a better mood.
Unfortunately, a regular light or lamp won’t mirror the effect of sunlight; you need to invest in a lightbox with at least a 10,000 lux exposure.
FIVE
Dive into a Digital Detox
We’re big fans of a slower life with digital devices being used less frequently. Social media, constant communication channels, and endless notifications don’t create connection but distraction and overwhelm.
Knock the digital mental clutter on the head and recharge by engaging in intentional activities that require focus and being truly present. Whatever floats your boat – yoga, painting, reading a book or having a coffee and chatting with a friend, device free.
SIX
Rest & Reset
Winter is hibernation season, so there’s no shame in leaning into that. Try to get out earlier in the mornings and then embrace the darker evenings, get into bed earlier, read, have early nights, listen to your body and let it rest.
Resources
If you think you may be suffering from Depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder please speak to your doctor or a medical professional. You can find resources for these medical conditions below:
If you enjoyed our six easy slow living winter blues busters, explore more of our slow and sustainable tips and hacks here.
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