Self Care Tips as You Prepare to Hibernate

I hope this post finds you snuggled up under a warm blanket or in a comfy cardigan. I just got back from a trip to Portland, OR and the entire trip felt like a warm hug. I spent time with really good friends and it was one of those trips where we didn't do much except enjoy each other's company. This is a feeling that is much needed as I move into these colder, daylight savings time months.

Katie and I at Hoyt Arboretum.

Stu and I amidst the Redwoods. He's clearly enthralled.

My Halloween Bestie, Nu.

As someone who has lived in the Midwest her entire life, the progression towards winter fills my body with dread. No matter how many years I have been here, the feeling is still there. Not for the cold weather, but the darkness that comes. I become one with my bed and couch. Getting off the couch feels pointless in that...why would I want to go outside if I can't see the beauty around me? Why would I want to move, when my body clearly wants to hibernate?

This is my reminder to you that it is time to write yourself a routine, or a winter bingo card filled with attainable self care goals. I find that most of the activities that fuel my heart are being around people with a shared experience, whether that be food, board games, climbing etc. So, I am going to share 2 things with you...

1) I wrote a book with my good friend, Krystal. It is about how to create mindful habits with eating and movement. Perfect for heading into this season. It is filled with self-care bingo, recipes from prior retreats, and tips on how to move. It is named "Rooted Wellness- Recipes and Movement for Mindful Living." You can purchase it using the link below.

2) My personal self care list for this time of year + helpful suggestions

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Brittany's Self Care List

1. Read notes that make you feel loved when you're feeling like poop. I have a box filled with cards and notes from friends and students. They contain kind words that keep the self doubt away. I make sure it's readily available and I put my favorite ones in front ;). If you do not have one of these, start writing one's to your future self or buy an inspiring book filled with positive quotes (it exists, I own one). I'm also sure your friends and family would write you if you asked.

2. Make a routine. Mine is wake up, make coffee or tea, meditate, breakfast and if my brain is filled with too many ideas, I write them all down so I don't have anxiety over something I can't quite remember. I know routine sounds boring, but your brain likes consistency.

3. Go on a walk. When I was in Portland, we walked everywhere. It felt so good for my body and brain. To take in a variety of distances with my eyes, engage my legs, stimulate my senses. Walking is the best thing you can do for yourself if you don't feel like traveling to a work out class.

4. Plan your meals (but like with friends). Want to hear something crazy? I hate cooking by myself. I prefer quick, easy meals that don't take up my day so I can go on to my next best thing. When all I have to look forward to is spending the entire evening with a friend(s) and everyone is participating in the meal, done. I will spend time making a good meal with them. Plan monthly or weekly dinners with your friends too! If you live alone like me and friend hangs aren't an option that night...I have found cooking components of a meal and putting them in the freezer makes my future meals easier to make.

5. Go to bed. Stop scrolling. Read that book. Perhaps routine before bed is just as important as when you wake up. 8pm and tired? Get in bed. Turn the lights down low. Put the phone in the other room and pretend the world doesn't exist until tomorrow morning. I bought an alarm clock for this reason. Your brain will thank you.

   
   

Get your body moving during this time is just as important as rest. Start small :). As a reminder, I have a movement library divided into categories for only $10/month. The first 7 days are free.