Winter weather is in full effect and for some that’s a cause for celebration… and for many others – (raising my hand!), it’s a reason to hibernate.
And if you’ve been battling a winter bug (I’m just coming off a few days of fending off a cold), this season is an extra-good reminder to lean into self-care. Between frigid temps, dry indoor heat, shorter days, and the general sluggishness that can creep in, winter can feel like a lot. So for this week’s Fit Five Friday, I’m sharing a few simple winter self-care tips—small but meaningful ways to support your body and your mood during the coldest months of the year.
Fit Five Friday: 5 Simple Ways to Take Care of Yourself This Winter
Be good to your skin (and your hydration)
Winter air can really sap the moisture from your skin. Add forced indoor heat and it’s no surprise skin can feel dry, tight, or irritated. This is a great time to switch to a heavier moisturizer for both face and body.
And don’t forget hydration. It’s easy to drink less water when it’s cold out, but your body still needs it—especially in dry winter conditions.
Protect your sleep
Sleep is one of the most powerful forms of self-care—yet it’s often the first thing we sacrifice when life gets busy. During winter (and especially during cold and flu season), good sleep supports overall health and helps your body feel more resilient.
If your sleep has been off lately, aim for consistency where you can. A simple wind-down routine can help: dim the lights, put your phone away, and do something calming for 10–15 minutes (stretching, reading, a warm shower). Even small changes can make a noticeable difference in how you feel day to day.
Embrace the outdoors
Fresh air is too important to both your mental and physical well-being to skip just because the temperature takes a dip. Unless icy conditions make it unsafe, getting outside—even briefly—can help reduce feelings of cabin fever and boost your mood.
A short walk, a few minutes of daylight, or a quick change of scenery can make a bigger difference than you’d think.
Find some Vitamin D support
Many people struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or a general low-energy slump in the winter, often triggered by a lack of sunlight. Another reason to get outdoors when you can—however, you may find that this time of year, that alone isn’t always enough.
Consider talking with a healthcare provider about whether a Vitamin D supplement could be helpful for you. Some people also find light therapy boxes useful during the darker months.
Declutter your space
This one may not seem like an obvious form of self-care, but clutter can be stressful. I think Winter is a great opportunity to clear out what may not be serving you anymore and create a calmer, more comfortable living space.
Start small: one drawer, one shelf, one cabinet. Keep the things you truly love and use, and donate what you no longer need. Added bonus—you’ll be ahead on the “spring cleaning” game.
Consider this your reminder: self-care doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective.
Your turn – What do you do to take care of yourself during the winter months?
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Such great ideas! I think the hydration thing is so important – especially when running. I feel like we skip it when we are not as hot.
Also, make soup and tea!
Hydration is definitely the one I struggle with the most right now. A big yes to soups and more tea!
I love this. I have been doing a great job about taking care of my skin, and I always sleep better when it;s cold.
I’ve been busy, so I haven’t had time for a big declutter, but I take 10 minutes here and there to do a quick sweep. It’s very useful.
Taking it a little at a time feels far less overwhelming while still making a positive impact.