Embracing Winter: A Guide to Wellbeing in the Chilly Season

The mornings are darker and the days shorter, the twinkly lights of December are back in the loft and it can all feel a bit much. As a wheelchair user, I find it much harder to get out and about in the winter. I don’t like going out when it’s wet and the last few weeks it’s felt like it’s not stopped raining! The fantasy winter is all picturesque frosty landscapes and cosy moments by the fire but the reality can feel quite different. With the colder months taking a toll on our mental, physical, and emotional well-being, there are some simple things you can put in place to make navigating the winter a little more bearable.

1. Nourish Your Body

Winter is a time for comfort food that warms your bones and nourishes your soul. Soups are pretty simple to make fresh and even easier if you buy tinned. Hearty stews are easy to make in a slow cooker and can be frozen into portions for easier eating later on, as can curries!  Loaded jacket potatoes can be made simply in a microwave if you’re in a hurry or an oven if you’ve got time for the crispy skin. If you find hydrating harder in the winter, swap out cold squash for warm. Hot honey and lemon are brilliant for getting some vitamin C in you too. Do we all add honey to everything in the winter? (I do!)

2. Move Your Body

Winter is definitely a time for hibernation, but staying active is important for your physical and mental health. As a wheelchair user, my favourite way to move my body is with a good kitchen disco. If the weather permits it I try to drag myself out for a little roll. YouTube is wonderful for short movement videos for all abilities. Some days all I can manage is a good stretch and that’s ok too!

3. Sleep

In the winter months, it’s especially important to get a good night's sleep! As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, our bodies naturally want to rest. Quality sleep during winter helps our well-being and supports our immune system. Having a bedtime routine can help, by aiming to go to bed around the same time each evening and allowing time to unwind beforehand. Experts say no screens before bed but this isn’t always easy. Try swapping social scrolling with an audiobook or a meditation. Listen to some relaxing music or read a book. The more rested you are the better you’ll feel.

4. Connect with nature

Getting outside isn’t always easy in the winter especially if you’re Disabled. It’s one of those things I never want to do because bed always feels a better option but I always feel so good when I do. Wrap up and get outside even if it’s only for ten minutes. A roll/walk outside, bundling up to have a warm cup of tea outside or even sitting by a sunny window to top up your vitamin D. When going out, layer up, especially if you’re a wheelchair user. I go for a thermal base layer of leggings and a top, then joggers or jeans and a jumper, coat, cosy socks, fingerless gloves (better grip for my wheels!) scarf and hat.  

5. Social connection

Winter can feel especially isolating but you’re not alone in these feelings. Stay connected using social media and online groups. Reading and craft groups are great during the winter months especially. Libraries are a wonderful place to spend time if you’re able to get out and about. Check out local social media pages for information on groups in your area. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family if you’re struggling. So many people find winter difficult, you don’t need to be alone with your feelings.

6. Get Cosy

It’s winter, it’s cold and probably grey and a bit wet. It really is hibernation weather, a time for rest and not a time for any new year new you nonsense (unless you’re into that then of course you do you!). Otherwise embrace the hibernation, cosy blankets, your fave candle, build a pillow fort, and get them twinkly lights back down from the loft. Create yourself the cosiest nest and remember most of nature blooms in spring so you can too! 

Final Thoughts

Winter invites us to slow down, introspect, and prioritise self-care. By nourishing our bodies, minds, and souls, we can thrive during this season rather than merely enduring it. Embrace the unique offerings of winter, finding beauty and solace in its quiet moments. Remember, well-being during winter isn't just about surviving the cold, but about thriving amidst its unique charms. So, grab a blanket, pour a warm drink, and revel in the magic that winter brings! (and remember after winter spring always comes!).