As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, the way you approach your routine can have a significant impact on how you feel throughout the colder months. While winter can be a time for slower, quieter days, it’s also easy for the slower pace to leave you feeling unmotivated and unenergetic. But with a few thoughtful changes to your habits, your home can become the perfect place to recharge, stay productive and embrace the cosiness of the season.
Optimise your morning for energy
Everyone knows that the way you start your day will set the tone for the rest of it. So, during the colder months, you’ll want to make your morning routine energising, but without rushing yourself into the day. If possible, try to get exposure to daylight early in the day so you feel alert and refreshed. If your new build home has large windows, take advantage of this natural light to help you wake up with a sense of openness and energy, and as the days are shorter, make sure to get as much natural light as you can throughout the day.
Start your day with a simple stretching routine or a few minutes of light exercise. These activities will stimulate your circulation and gently wake up your body, making it easier to get going.
Warm and nourishing breakfast habits
A big part of living well comes down to the food you eat each day. A hearty, warm breakfast is the perfect way to fuel your body, especially when the mornings are crisp and chilly.
Think about seasonal meals that offer the energy you need. A bowl of porridge with fruit, nuts and a drizzle of honey is a filling option that will keep you satisfied throughout the morning. If you prefer a savoury breakfast, a warm omelette or avocado on toast can also be nourishing. Meanwhile, warm drinks like herbal teas are excellent for keeping you cosy as you begin your day.
Create a cosy work and relaxation environment
It’s important to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that helps you focus or unwind, depending on the activity. Set up areas of your home dedicated to work or your favourite hobbies.
Choose spots with good lighting, either natural light or a carefully selected desk lamp, so you can stay productive. For example, a well-lit work nook near a window or under a pendant light will make your work hours feel brighter and more positive, helping you fight off the grey dreariness of winter.
In your relaxation spaces, think about using textiles like soft throws or fluffy cushions. Why not create a reading nook with a comfortable chair and warm lighting that encourages you to sit and read for hours?
Evening wind-down strategies
As the day draws to a close, winding down is essential for a restful night’s sleep. One of the most effective ways to signal to your body that it’s time to relax is to unplug from screens. This means putting away your phone or tablet an hour before bed. The blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with your sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep and feel rested.
Dim the lights around your home in the evening, and add small touches, like lighting a calming candle or using a diffuser with essential oils. Your bedroom should also reflect this calm mood, so make sure it’s cosy, with warm blankets and a comfortable pillow setup.
Develop a few calming rituals to help ease your mind and body. Avoiding too much evening screen time by taking a hot bath or shower, enjoying a cup of warm herbal tea, or even doing some light reading can help you relax and be ready for sleep.
