How to Self-Care in a Pandemic Winter
Is it possible? Yes! And it’s more important than ever.
If you’re feeling discouraged staring down a long Canadian winter without some of the usual coping strategies this year, I hear you! Every fall, when we have to say goodbye to warm weather, I am usually heartened by the holiday season. Unfortunately, for me, getting together for 4-hour dinners with my huge family is a big part of what makes this time of year feel festive. Is there even any point in decorating if no one is coming over to see it? Is Christmas basically cancelled this year? But that is just the little devil on my shoulder talking! And those of us in the field of mental health know that this year, more than ever, we should be mindful to cultivate joy and comfort however we can, so here are some ideas:
Make it a challenge. Challenge yourself to find new ways to feel good.
Embrace hygge. If staying home is getting old, try reading about this Danish principle of coziness to shift your perspective.
Embrace technology to stay connected. You might be tired of Zoom calls and feel like “It’s not even worth it” but tell that shoulder devil to bugger off! Do your best to ignore the tool you are using and focus on the interaction and connection you get from making use of it. It is worth it to maintain those bonds.
Help others. This is still one of the best ways we can help ourselves.
Cultivate meaning. Think about what you value, what is important to you, and try to find ways to engage with it every week.
Cultivate positivity. “Look on the bright side” and “Count your blessings” are cliches (for a reason) but research shows that keeping a gratitude journal actually does make us happier. Try writing down 1-3 things you’re grateful for, big or small, several days a week.
Get as much sunlight as you can. If you really don’t want to go outside today, even sitting by a large window will help. A SAD or grow light can help in the mornings when it’s still dark out.
Get moving. We all know there are lots of options, from outdoor winter activities to exercise videos, but you may not know this: 30-45 minutes of medium intensity cardio 5-6 days a week may be as effective as antidepressant medication.
Balance achievement and pleasure. Most of us do best when we allocate some time to getting things accomplished and some to relaxing or goofing off, so be sure not to neglect either each day.
Get help if you’re struggling. For a lot of us, these are very difficult times. No one expects that everyone will be able to just carry on as usual when nothing is normal. If these one-size-fits-most tips don’t seem to be cutting it, you can get personalized help and support.