While online this past week I heard someone express that their tolerance for winter was waning.
I was so struck by this as I generally feel the same way stepping into February each year, but I had never thought to put it into the context of an arc before. As someone who thrives outdoors, January can seem very long, but also busy and productive enough to be distracting. Waiting for the weather to lean slightly warmer allowing for a little more perceived freedom in February feels much more difficult. I've spent some time this past week thinking about what I can do to meet February where it is and take its enjoyment into my own hands. And, if you didn't already know, I do love a list.
February:
- Lüften once or twice a day. Lüften is the German practice of opening all of your windows for 10 to 15 minute a day to exchange the air in your home. It makes sense, especially with all the the candle burning happening around here and not having central (circulating/filtering) air in our current home, it can get very stuffy. The fresh air always gives me a little boost of energy. A nice little mental and physical reset that I'm quickly becoming addicted to.
- Bring flowers or inexpensive sprouting bulbs into the house. January after the holidays can feel fresh and clean once the garlands and greenery have been taken down, but that clean slate feeling might not last into February for some. As an avid gardener (now turned balcony gardener) I really miss watching living things grow.
- Do something with your hands. Explore a hobby, bake or try a recipe you’ve never tried before, work a puzzle, play solitaire with a deck of cards. Knit, craft, sort. Write letters, play an instrument, give your partner a foot massage. The options are endless.
- Expose yourself to the Arts. Go to museums (they often have free days), explore interesting buildings and architecture. See a play, watch a full length movie, or watch a ballet or symphony (check your local university for less expensive options).
- Read 20+ minutes regularly. Rediscover your imagination, increase your empathy and understanding of others, be entertained, or learn something new through fiction and non-fiction.
- Find some nature and get outside. I prefer going for a walk (hikes are generally too muddy this time of year), but if the weather is too challenging it's ok to just stand on the front porch for 15 minutes. Somehow the combination of natural daylight and fresh air make the lingering days of winter more tolerable.
- Move your body. Dance in your kitchen, stretch for a few minutes, do some balance exercises or all of the above. Think about how you are staying flexible physically and mentally for the return of longer days and more opportunities for adventure.
- Connect with friends. Need I say more? Studies show that talking with a friend for only twelve minutes can lift your mood, reduce stress and improve your well being. In person or by phone these interactions can increase the release of serotonin and dopamine and improve your overall sense of being.
- Take a field trip. Having experiences can also trigger the brain to release chemicals that support well being, lower stress and increase motivation. *I've been compiling a list of local field trips that I want to bring into the next few months. I'll share that in my next post.
Bring in a pop of color. In an outfit. In an umbrella, In a shoe or scarf. Just a little pop goes a long way.
I have some of these things in practice already (Luften, reading, getting outside, and connecting with friends), but I think I can definitely make these last few weeks of winter pass with more peace and enjoyment if I pull in a few others. Let me know if you have any additional ideas!
Until next time,
Jen
