Winter can be a month of working hard for many. With the grey and icy mornings, many of us will probably be inside, working, or getting on with other productive activities. However, it is important to make sure we check in with ourselves during the winter months to avoid burnout.

What is burnout? Burnout is a condition of severe stress, leading to extreme physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Burnout can leave you dreading your day-to-day life. You may feel severely lethargic, and as if you have nothing left to give.

Preventing burnout is the best way to treat the condition. Checking in with yourself through self-care can be a great way to prevent it. Self-care focuses on strengthening the relationship between your mind, body, and soul. It helps reduce stress, ease anxiety and boost self-confidence.

We have rounded up our favourite winter wellness self-care tips and strategies. Implementing these ideas into your daily life can help prevent burnout this winter.

Build a Winter Skincare Routine.

Winter weather can be harsh on the skin. With the cold outside, and the frequent use of heaters, skin can dry out. Invest in a skin care routine suitable for your personal skin needs, including a hydrator and moisturiser. Taking the time to care for your skin at the end of a long day can help ground you in your body and be a moment to look after your physical well-being. Don’t forget to apply SPF sunscreen every morning, no matter if there’s rain or clouds!

Prepare for Colds and the Flu.

Winter is notorious for flus and colds because more people meet inside and are in close quarters. Stock up your medicine cabinet with cold and flu fighting products, including paracetamol, ibuprofen, and cough lozenges. Maybe even add a heat bag or hot water bottle. If you catch a cold or the flu, you will thank your past self, as you will need these things to get through. You might also want to consider getting the flu vaccine.

Listen to Music.

Take a drive around your neighbourhood, or to the park or the beach and pop into your favourite playlist. Or listen from the comfort of your home. Listening to music can help your brain release dopamine. Dopamine is a natural hormone responsible for happiness and can thus improve your mood. Listening to your favourite music is a great way to pause, relax, and connect with your mental and spiritual well-being.

Connect with Loved Ones.

Prioritise spending time with your friends and family. It’s important to make sure you don’t isolate yourself during the winter, as this can lead to feelings of loneliness and sadness. You can meet for coffee, go for a walk to get some sunshine, enjoy a mulled wine together, or even simply do a quick video call. Spending time with your loved ones is a great way to talk about your stress, your daily life, and any concerns you may have. It’s a good way to release stress and anxieties instead of keeping it bottled up.

Bubble Bath.

A warm bubble bath surrounded by wonderful scents can ease tension in your muscles and allow you a moment to pause. You could light candles in your bathroom or include any other bath products to create even more luxury.

Rearrange or decorate your home.

Switching up your space can help you revitalise your home and breathe life. You could use colours and textures to reflect winter, and release some of your creative potential. Add blankets and cushions to your living space to add to the cosy, warm atmosphere. It’s also a project that allows you to step away from your work or busy life and do something for you.

Read a Book.

A great way to escape into a different world. Reading will stimulate your mind. It is an opportunity to both learn and relax. Nothing beats curling up on the couch, under a blanket, with a hot drink and a good book.

References:

Balance Through Simplicity. (2022). 30 Self-Care Ideas for Winter. Retrieved from: https://balancethroughsimplicity.com/30-self-care-ideas-for-winter/ 

Fraga, J. (2019). A Guide to Burnout. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/health/tips-for-identifying-and-preventing-burnout#signs 

Kristenson, S. (2021). 25 Winter Self-Care Ideas to Thrive During the Cold Months. Retrieved from: https://www.happierhuman.com/winter-self-care/