Winter self-care essentials for staying balanced and warm

Winter has a way of bringing both beauty and challenges. The shorter days and colder temperatures can leave us feeling drained, but they also offer an opportunity to slow down and focus on self-care. Prioritising small rituals during these months can help you stay balanced, grounded, and connected to yourself.

Here’s a guide to winter self-care essentials that will inspire you to embrace the season while taking care of your body and mind.

Create a cosy and relaxing atmosphere

Winter is the perfect time to create spaces that feel warm, inviting, and calming. Your environment plays a big role in your mood since we tend to spend more time indoors during the colder months, so it’s worth taking a few moments to make it more comforting.

Start with soft lighting. Lamps, string lights, and candles can instantly make a space feel more peaceful. Add layers with wool blankets, plush throws, and even a favourite cushion in your go-to relaxation spot. These small touches can make all the difference when you’re winding down or just reading your favorite book. 

Scent is another powerful tool for relaxation. Lighting an essential oil candle can transform your space while offering aromatherapy benefits. Oils like lavender or ylang ylang are known for their high linalool content and will help ease stress and calm the nervous system. A simple candle, if it's infused with pure essential oils, can truly elevate your relaxing experience. 

Tips to try:

• Use warm-toned lighting in the evenings to signal your body that it’s time to relax.
• Keep a blanket or throw it close to your favorite chair for instant comfort.
• Experiment with scented candles to find a blend that supports your mood.

Warm drinks and nourishing foods

Few things feel as comforting as wrapping your hands around a warm drink on a cold day. These little rituals can help you feel grounded while nourishing your body and soul.

Start your day with something soothing like herbal tea or spiced hot chocolate. For a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, golden milk or a chai latte can warm you from the inside out. Pair these with nourishing meals that are hearty but energising. Think roasted vegetables, creamy soups, or warm grain bowls topped with seasonal ingredients.

Taking a moment to enjoy these comforts is an act of mindfulness. Even in the busiest days, pause and savour the warmth and nourishment of a meal or drink.

Tips to try:

• Prepare a big batch of soup or stew on Sunday to make weeknight meals easier.
• Add seasonal spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to your drinks for extra warmth.
• Make your drinks feel extra special by serving them in a favourite mug.

Prioritise evening wind-down routines

Winter evenings are the perfect time to slow down and recharge. A consistent wind-down routine can help you transition from the busyness of the day to a calmer state of mind.

Try incorporating calming rituals like yoga, journaling, or a warm candlelit bath. Dim the lights, light a candle, and let the atmosphere guide you into relaxation. Harmony, with its blend of lavender, rosemary, and black pepper, is a great option for these moments. Its herbaceous scent encourages balance and relaxation, while the natural compounds interact with the nervous system to ease tension.

Don’t underestimate the power of small rituals. Stretching for five minutes, writing down something positive from your day, or even sitting in silence can create a sense of calm that helps you rest deeply.

Tips to try:

• Light an essential oil candle 30 minutes before bed to set the mood for relaxation.
• Take five minutes to reflect on something you’re grateful for before sleeping.
• Stretch your body gently to release tension from the day.

Protect and soothe your skin

To my dry skin girlies, I get it. The cold air, wind, and central heating can be brutal during winter, leaving the skin feeling tight and irritated. Giving your skin some extra care during these months is essential.

Switch to a hydrating face mask once or twice a week to give your skin the boost it needs. I never leave the house without a nourishing lip balm—it’s a must for keeping lips soft and protected in the cold. My hands also need extra care, so I make it a habit to apply a rich cream or massage oil in the evenings. This not only hydrates but also feels like a mini act of self-care.

Must-haves for winter skincare:

• Super hydrating face masks
• Lip balm (seriously, don’t leave the house without it)
• Hand creams & body oils

Tips to try:

• Keep a small lip balm in every bag so you’re never without it.
• Use a humidifier at night to keep the air in your room from drying out your skin.
• Drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside out.

Stay active and practice mindfulness

It’s tempting to hibernate during winter, but staying active is so important for your physical and mental well-being. Gentle activities like yoga, stretching, or walking will help you feel more energised and balanced.

Yoga, especially in the evenings, is a great way to combine movement with mindfulness. A candlelit flow using Serenity (infused with grapefruit, rosewood, and bergamot) will help you reconnect with yourself while releasing tension. If yoga isn’t your thing, try dancing to your favourite playlist for a quick mood boost. A few minutes of stretching, bodyweight exercises, or Pilates help release tension and re-energise—all while enjoying the soothing scent of a candle in the background. 

Mindfulness practices like journaling, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can also make a big difference. These small acts help you stay present and grounded, even during the busiest days.

Tips to try:

• Set aside 15 minutes for movement every day, even if it’s just stretching.
• Pair your mindfulness practice with a candle to create a calming environment.
• Try journaling for five minutes each night to clear your mind before bed.

Find time for fun and connection

Winter self-care isn’t only about quiet moments—it’s also about joy and connection. Taking time for activities that bring you happiness is just as important as relaxing.

Organise a cosy movie night with friends, bake something seasonal, or start a fun DIY project. Even solo activities like reading a book or listening to your favourite playlist can bring a little spark to your day. Remember, self-care is about balance—making room for both rest and fun.

Tips to try:

• Host a winter-themed gathering with friends, complete with hot drinks and a baking session.
• Visit a Christmas market or explore local winter fairs for festive inspiration.
• Cook a recipe from scratch—try something new and savour the process alone or with loved ones.
• Experiment with making hot drinks from around the world, like mulled wine, spiced cider, or a unique tea blend.
• Start an online course or workshop to dive into a skill or hobby you’ve been curious about.
• Explore a creative outlet like painting, embroidery, or DIY crafts—it’s the perfect time for hands-on projects.

Make winter self-care your own

During winter, self-care means finding small ways to feel rested, balanced, and connected to yourself. It’s the small things—lighting a candle, sipping a warm drink, or giving your skin some love—that help you feel more balanced and connected.

Explore different rituals, try what feels good, and remember: the small moments of self-care are the ones that will make a big difference.

What are your go-to winter self-care essentials? I’d love to hear how you make the most of this season.