Happy 2025! I wish you lots of cozy drinks, a pile of good books, and soft fluffy socks to plunge deep into for the first 3 months of the year.
In Northeastern Ohio, it’s cold and gray until the end of March. There are times when I don’t mind staying home, but other days when winter can feel way too long.
I’m sharing some tips that lift my spirits on those bleak days when the sun doesn’t show itself.
- After cleansing I like to steam my face. I hold a big ole towel over my head in the bathroom sink. My Mom used to do this when we had croup and put Vicks Vaporub under our noses. My intention now is to open my pores and keep my skin hydrated. It feels warm on a frigid day!
- I like to wake up with a purpose. I feel better when I accomplish tasks. Since we have a cat, I always have “daily cat chores”. But I always have something extra on my agenda. Whether I add another thing to do around the house, run an errand, or even read the last couple of chapters in a book, I feel more satisfied.
- Having a coffee date with a friend, grabbing lunch, or looking forward to weekend plans. Having something to look forward to boosts my mood.
- Even when I don’t intend on leaving the house, I always put on makeup. It just makes me feel better.
- I stretch multiple times a day and try to ride my stationary bike at least 3 times a week, depending on how my arthritic and chronic pained back feels.
Even if those gray skies seem endless, do something that makes you feel good about yourself and accomplished! …now get up and enjoy the day!..lol
Writer McWriterson
These are such great ideas! I’ve been feeling the blues too, especially since December was so gray this year. But today, with the sun out, it’s already giving me a little boost. I love the tip about putting on makeup even if you’re not going anywhere—it’s such a good reminder to take care of yourself.
myheartinpen
When the sun does shine, doesn’t it seem like people are more friendly? Let’s hope it peeks out often this winter. Also, during covid I wore makeup everyday. It definitely makes me look better..lol. I never leave the house without it! Stay cozy and warm!
myheartinpen
Yeah, we can all use a little extra sun these next few months. When it does peak through, doesn’t it seem like everyone is a little kinder? Even through covid, I always put makeup on. It makes me feel “normal”..lol. Stay warm and cozy!
Nicole MacPherson
Wow, you weren’t kidding – we have so many similarities! I can relate to all this but especially the makeup one. I put on makeup every day too, I find it strangely grounding? Like, I’ve got my mascara on and I am READY TO GO. Even if I’m not going anywhere! Great blog, I’m so excited to add you to my reader.
Judy Palermo
Sorry for the delay..I need to check my comments on a consistant basis. I need makeup!..lol Even if I’m by myself for the day, I KNOW I look better with eyebrows and at least some lip gloss!
Jane
Super tips! My skin is so dry, I need the hydration so I’ll try the steam! Drinking 64 oz. of water a day is tough but I do it. Makeup- I try but I’m lazy!!! Happy New Year!!
Judy Palermo
The steam is helping me and I am not a water drinker. I’ve been trying, though! Anything to help make us feel better, right?!
Melanie R
Really good tips that I can certainly use. I have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). I don’t do full makeup on the days I stay home because I like my skin to breathe (I do wear moisturizer every day though), but I do put on tinted lip balm.
myheartinpen
I have a love/hate relationship with winter. I love being cozy at home but the lack of sunshine is so hard! When I’m home with nowhere to go, I don’t use foundation either but I do put on concealer, and eye makeup. I just look and feel better. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for some sunlight…