FIVE Ways To Stay Sane In The Winter!

Winter is hard! Winter is draining. Parenting in the winter is even harder! We all go through it, but what if we could get through this while thriving rather than just surviving?! Here are a few things to try in order to make winter a little more enjoyable!

FIVE Ways To Stay Sane In The Winter:

1. Get Outside

I know that it may be cold in your area. I understand. I live in Iowa. We can go from a 40-50 degree day and the next day is single digits with the wind chill far below zero. BUT if it is safe to do so, getting outside and getting some fresh air will give you the mental and emotional boost you need. Go for a walk, play with the kids for a bit, or just sit outside for a few minutes. And if the sun is out, you can get some vitamin D as well, which is always good.

2. Date Night with your spouse or a group of friends

It is easy to hibernate in the house all winter and never spend time with people….even with the people in our homes (I am talking about your spouse…I know your kids never leave you alone!) Make it a priority to plan a date night with your spouse at least once a month, once a week is even better, but I know that can be very difficult to fit into the schedule. And if finances are tough, there are ways to go for a cheap date night (pack supper and eat in the car while having a conversation without kids to interrupt, eat at home first and then catch a movie, go to a coffee shop and just chat). Can’t afford a babysitter? Trade babysitting with some friends. You go on a date night one night while they have your kids and then they go another night and you have their kids. You both win!
Maybe you aren’t married…..plan a night out with friends! You need to go out and socialize with friends too! Use some of the tips above with your friends if money is tight.

3. Light a candle or wax warmer

Do you have a favorite candle? Or maybe there is a certain scent that you love. If so, look for a candle or wax melt that is close to that scent and burn it when you need some relief. The sense of scent is powerful and can help us relax. Candles and scent can take us away from the crazy when it is needed. (Please be sure you keep candles or wax warmers out of reach of your littles.)

4. Read a good book

I know that finding time to read when you have children running around the house can be difficult, but it is a great way to escape from reality even if it is only for 10-15 minutes. Books can take you to another world and help you forget the here and now if only for a few moments!

5. Breathe

Just remember to breathe. Put sticky notes up all over your home that remind you to take a breath. Parenting is hard. No one denies that. And believe me, you are not alone! But we do have to remember that tomorrow is a new day. A new season is coming. You can do this. All you have to do is breathe.

Have some more ideas of how to thrive rather than just survive the winter months? Share them with us below!