Here in the Northern Hemisphere, as nature quiets down for winter, we’re offered a gentle nudge to slow our pace, too, turning inward to reflect. It’s easy to feel like we need to keep pushing forward, ticking off to-do lists, and staying busy. But nature has a different rhythm this time of year: stillness, reflection, and restoration.
If you’re feeling unmoored or overwhelmed, here are five simple, grounding practices to help you reconnect with yourself and the season’s quiet beauty.
1. Bundle Up and Go Outside
Even in winter’s chill, stepping outside connects us to the earth and ourselves. Getting fresh air and sunlight is still important! Bundle up in your coziest scarf and take a mindful walk. Notice the crunch of frost or snow under your feet, the way the air feels on your face, or the bare branches silhouetted against the sky. This simple act of presence can be profoundly grounding.
Try This: While you walk, breathe in for a count of four and out for a count of six. Match your steps to your breath to create a sense of flow and balance.
2. Make a Ritual Out of Rest
Winter invites us to rest, but so often we resist. Instead of seeing rest as a luxury, embrace it as a ritual. Create a cozy corner in your home with your fluffiest blankets, maybe some twinkle lights, and your favorite book or journal. Set aside time to curl up and unwind, guilt-free.
Keep in mind, that if you don't schedule time to relax, your body will pick for you, and it probably won't be nearly as convenient as time you pick for yourself. Listen to the natural rhythms of your body and work with them, not against them.
Try This: Take the nap. Since you scheduled some downtime anyway, once you feel that warmth & comfort start to make you feel sleepy, go ahead and embrace it! Chances are good you need it anyway.
3. Create Something With Your Hands
Grounding isn’t always about stillness—it’s also about engaging fully with the present moment. Let your hands lead you into mindfulness by crafting, cooking, or even gardening (indoor plants count!). These activities connect us to our creativity and the physical world.
Try This: Baking & frosting cookies is a fun activity the whole family can participate in. They don't have to pretty. Just have fun with it! And if you're really strapped for time or energy, most grocery stores even sell pre-made dough.
4. Journal Your Little Heart Out
Winter is the perfect season for reflection and planning. Take some time to jot down your thoughts, dreams, or even your frustrations. The act of writing can help clear mental clutter and bring you back to center. I recommend, though it isn't strictly necessary, actually using a pen or pencil to write on real paper. Feeling the sensation of of pen to page is much more tactile than working digitally.
Try This Prompt: What do I want to let go of this winter? What seeds do I want to plant for the spring?
5. Ground Through Your Senses
Our senses are powerful tools for grounding. When you feel scattered or anxious, turn to your senses to anchor you in the here and now. Light your favorite scented candle, play calming music, or wrap yourself in a cozy blanket.
Try This: Choose one sense to focus on each day. For example, explore the sense of touch by noticing the textures around you: the softness of your favorite sweater, the roughness of tree bark, or the warm smoothness of a mug of cocoa in your hands.
Winter’s Stillness Is a Gift
Grounding isn’t just about finding your footing—it’s about reconnecting to yourself and the world around you. This winter, give yourself the gift of slowing down, tuning in, and savoring the stillness.
What’s your favorite way to ground yourself during the winter months? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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