HEALTH

We love January and February for sooo many reasons: New Year's resolutions, snow days, crush szn and all the positive vibes of starting something new. But the start of the year can also be downright dismal if you live in a cold climate. (And srsly, who likes to walk home from soccer practice in complete darkness? Not us.)

Here's the thing: Self-care is *so* important for your mental and physical health this time of year—and it can make a major difference when it comes to feeling good in the winter months.

Read on for our top tips for staying merry and bright and thriving through the chilly szn...

Keep a soothing sleep schedule

@interioryesplz

There's a reason why winter is hibernation time for so many animals. We're not suggesting you curl up in a cave 'til March (though, tbh, that sounds kinda nice?). But getting enough sleep during the winter will keep your body (and mind) healthy during the colder days.

If you're one of those girlies who gets drowsy when the sun goes down at 5 p.m., try getting your HW done right after school so you can go to bed an hour earlier. Even if you're a night owl, getting ready for bed just 30 minutes earlier can make it *so* much easier to wake up on dark mornings. 

Meditate

For a lot of girls, going back to a full schedule of school and activities is overwhelming after the relaxing vibes of winter break. To bring that at-home spa-night energy into the new semester, try meditating if you don't already. Just five minutes every day will pay off!

There are so many great meditation apps out there (we love Headspace and Calm), or you can search for a guided meditation vid on YouTube. Or try it yourself: Set a timer for five minutes and focus on your breath and body, either in the morning right after you wake up or at night before going to bed.

Everything showers

@archdigest

One of our ins for 2024? An Everything Shower.

Nothing beats a long hot soak after a stressful day of running yourself ragged, especially when winter hits. Everything Showers are all about the ~experience~ of indulging yourself in an oasis of self-care, from shampooing to shaving to the soothing downfall of hot water.

This water paradise is the perfect way to reset—with the added of holding your own one-woman performance of the evermore album. A shower isn't enough to solve all your problems (believe us, we've tried!), but it *can* be enough to ease your mind for the evening. Kick back, exfoliate and relax!

Take yourself on a date

Table for one? Yes, pls!

Taking some time to be alone to focus on, well, you is one of the best healing methods. And planning a date for yourself is the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

If you're looking for something more laid back, pick up a chai latte and a chocolate croissant from your fave cafe before browsing novels at a nearby bookstore. Up for a little more adventure? Go to an arcade or a hiking trail (just be sure to bundle up).

In the wise words of Donna Meagle, treat yo self! Bc you deserve something to look forward to—even if the weather's beyond dreary outside.

Follow us on IG for more winter inspo @girlslifemag!

Looking for more wellness and self-care tips? Keep reading...
❄️ Quick + easy meditations for your busiest days
❄️ How to stay happy when you have a busy schedule
❄️ 4 ways to glow up your sleep routine

Top and slider image: @freyakillin
GIF via Giphy

by Megha Gupta and Ava Slocum | 1/25/2024