5 practices to help you thrive during winter

Here are five things you can do to beat the winter blues.

1. Connect with others

Hibernating at home may be tempting in winter, but it can make you feel low over time. Prioritise the type of connection that most energises you. For instance, meet your friend for a chat over a warm brew, or attend a support group to connect with others who have been affected by a heart condition. Even simple gestures like smiling at the cashier in the supermarket can make you feel less alone.

2. Check in with yourself

Each morning, take a moment to ask yourself:

How does my body feel?
What aspects of life am I grateful for?
Is there a small goal I can set for myself today?

Experiment with different check-in prompts. You could focus on gratitude, airing frustrations, noticing your worries, or anything else that feels important.

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3. Feel your feelings

Like gusts of wind, emotions can sweep in suddenly, knocking us off balance. Instead of resisting, learn to sway with their currents.

Practices like seated meditation, yoga or qigong can help you tune in. Notice the shifts in your body: tight jaw softening, furrowed brows smoothing, and shoulders relaxing. Try to stay with your feelings instead of fighting or judging them.

4. Embrace your artistic side

A person chooses between two landscape photographs while making a collage.

Art can lift your spirits. Your medium could be anything: watercolours, a digital camera, or a musical instrument. Whatever the case, making art can help us express ourselves, bring us joy and foster a sense of achievement.

5. Blow off steam

Some emotions may be difficult and even overwhelming. Let them out. Give yourself permission to make some noise each day. Sob in the shower, scream into a pillow, or belt out a song that resonates with you. Movement can also help. Activities like running, dancing and martial arts can be cathartic in their own ways.

Tried this at home?

Try at least one of these practices and let us know if you feel better as a result. Do you have other recommendations? Email your thoughts and any photos for a chance to be featured in the next magazine.