How to Enjoy Winter After the Holidays are Over
When the holidays are over and the winter blues start to creep in, it’s the perfect time to discover the quiet joys this season has to offer. From cozying up indoors to finding beauty in the frosty outdoors, winter can become a time of rest, warmth, and simple pleasures.
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The Holidays Are Over, Now What?
The holidays bring so much excitement—gathering with loved ones, twinkling lights, festive meals, and the anticipation of giving and receiving gifts. It’s a time filled with joy and plenty to look forward to, making the season feel magical.
But what about after all that fun? We get it – the post-holiday winter stretch can sometimes feel like a marathon.
The twinkling lights have come down, the festive tunes have faded away, and what’s left is often a seemingly endless expanse of snow, bone-chilling cold, and nights that sneak in way too early. It’s easy to fall into the “winter blues” trap, especially when the initial holiday excitement wears off.
But don’t worry, friend! Let’s turn this perceived slump into an opportunity to find joy in the simplicity of the season. Instead of letting the winter doldrums take over, we can explore the beauty that lies in the stillness of snow-covered landscapes, the crispness of the cold air, and the cozy ambiance created by early nights.
With the right mindset and a dash of creativity, we can transform the post-holiday winter stretch from a drag into a delightful chapter of simple living.
Here are a few simple ways to keep the warmth alive in your hearts:
1. Rest Like Nature Does
Winter is the perfect time to take a cue from nature and slow down. Just like animals who rest more during the colder months, we can embrace the season as an opportunity to recharge.
The longer nights are an invitation to get extra sleep, so don’t feel guilty about going to bed earlier or indulging in a weekend nap.
Winter also brings a kind of coziness that’s hard to replicate any other time of year. Curl up under a soft blanket with a good book, or take some time to just sit quietly with a warm cup of tea. It’s also the perfect excuse to cuddle more—whether with a loved one, a pet, or even a cozy heating pad.
Rather than fighting the slower pace of winter, lean into it. This season doesn’t have to be about constant productivity; it can be about intentionally resting, both physically and mentally.
Let yourself enjoy moments of stillness without feeling the need to fill them with something “productive.” You might be surprised how much more refreshed and energized you’ll feel when spring comes.
Winter Rest Ideas:
- Go to bed an hour earlier than usual or sleep in a bit more when possible.
- Plan a “cozy night in” with blankets, candles, and your favorite movie.
- Take a mid-afternoon nap or just rest quietly for a few minutes.
- Start a simple, comforting evening routine like journaling or meditating.
- Snuggle up with your pet or partner and watch the snow fall.
- Embrace slower mornings with warm drinks and no rush.
- Let yourself say no to extra commitments and prioritize downtime.
- Listen to soothing music or an audiobook while wrapped in a blanket.
- Indulge in warm baths or foot soaks to relax.
Let winter be your permission slip to pause, rest, and recharge—it’s what the season is all about.
2. Connect With Nature – Both In Doors and Out
Winter reveals a quieter kind of beauty in nature, from frost-kissed branches that glisten in the sunlight to the serene stillness of a snow-covered landscape.
Get outside even if it’s only for 20 minutes:
Bundle up and take a stroll through the crisp, snow-kissed landscapes. Let the serene surroundings work their magic and clear your mind. Don’t forget to breathe in that chilly, invigorating air!
Hear me out on this. I’m not saying you need to go on long walks everyday but you should find a way to enjoy nature after a first snow fall. Don’t wait until life makes a mess of the snow because let’s be honest, it can get real ugly.
But life can be truly amazing after a new snow fall so bundle up and have some hot cocoa waiting for you when you get back.
If you can’t get outside:
When you are stuck inside then find ways to bring the nature inside.
Even on the chilliest days, opening the windows for just a few minutes can freshen the air and bring in that crisp, invigorating scent of winter. A simple bouquet of fresh flowers can brighten any space and remind you of the beauty waiting in spring.
Adding a bird feeder outside your favorite window is another great way to stay connected to the season. Watching the birds come and go can bring unexpected joy and make you feel a little closer to the natural world, even while staying cozy inside.
Ways to Bring the Outdoors In:
- Crack open a window for a few minutes to enjoy fresh air.
- Decorate with fresh flowers or winter greenery like pine branches or pine cones.
- Place a bird feeder near a window for easy bird-watching.
- Invest in a plant or two to add life and greenery to your home.
- Place a chair or blanket near a sunny window for a cozy winter sunbathing spot.
- Light a candle or use essential oils that evoke nature, like cedarwood or eucalyptus.
- Keep a nature journal to record seasonal changes or the birds you see.
These little touches can help you feel more connected to nature, even when it’s too cold to spend hours outside.
3. Get Some Proper Winter Wear
If you have the means, then make sure you have proper winter clothing and shoes. I can’t believe how much this makes a difference to what you can handle when the weather gets frigid.
I had a coat I got as a gift that I used for many winters. One night when I was running the trash out to the curb I threw on my husbands coat instead and I could not believe the difference in warmth.
That next winter I bought myself a long, puffy coat that’s basically a sleeping bag and it has made all the difference when I have to go outside.
Make sure you are comfortable so you can have that short walk or run errands without fear of freezing.
4. Make Your Home Extra Cozy to Enjoy Winter More
Staying warm when your outside is important but so is staying warm inside. Creating a cozy home is one of the best ways to embrace winter.
Start with lighting—soft, warm lights instantly make a space feel inviting. Candles add a flickering glow and a touch of romance, while string lights draped over a bookshelf or window can bring a magical, twinkling vibe to any room. Dimming overhead lights or using lamps with warm bulbs can also transform a space into a snug retreat.
Next, layer your home with cozy textures.
Flannel sheets are a winter must-have, making it hard to leave bed on chilly mornings (in the best way). Pile on thick blankets and throw pillows to create the perfect space to relax with a good book or your favorite show.
Rugs underfoot add extra warmth, and even switching to heavier curtains can help insulate your home and make it feel snugger. If changing up your home is difficult then go for the easier option of having comfy clothing for indoors as well. Wear the fuzzy socks and flannel pjs instead.
These little touches make your space a haven, keeping you warm and comfortable all season long.
Cozy Home Essentials for Winter:
- Soft, warm lighting from candles, string lights, or dimmed lamps.
- Flannel sheets or fleece blankets for a toasty bed.
- Throw blankets and plush pillows for the couch or chairs.
- Area rugs to keep your feet warm and add visual warmth.
- Heavy curtains to block drafts and create a cocoon-like feel.
- A fireplace or electric heater for that quintessential cozy vibe.
- A basket for blankets to keep them within easy reach.
- A favorite nook for curling up with a book, tea, or simply relaxing.
With a few simple tweaks, your home can become the ultimate winter sanctuary.
5. Comfort Food
Winter is the perfect season to cook up some comfort. There’s just something about a warm, hearty meal that makes the cold days a little more bearable.
Soups and stews become stars of the season—think creamy potato soup, hearty chili, or a classic chicken noodle. They’re not only satisfying but also fill your home with those cozy, mouthwatering aromas that make everything feel a bit warmer.
This is also the time for casseroles—easy, crowd-pleasing dishes that are as comforting as they are convenient. A cheesy pasta bake or a rich shepherd’s pie feels like a hug on a plate.
And let’s not forget baking! Winter begs for the scent of fresh cookies, banana bread, or a bubbling fruit crisp wafting through the kitchen. Plus, baking is a great way to warm up your space (and your spirit).
Cooking in the winter isn’t just about food; it’s about creating moments that bring joy and comfort to you and anyone lucky enough to share your table.
Comfort Foods to Try This Winter:
- Hearty soups like lentil, chicken noodle, or creamy tomato.
- Stews or chili packed with beans, veggies, and spices.
- Casseroles like lasagna, baked ziti, or shepherd’s pie.
- Easy Crockpot Dinners
- Freshly baked bread—nothing beats that warm, homemade smell.
- Sweet treats like cookies, brownies, or a seasonal fruit crumble.
- Breakfast comfort like pancakes, waffles, or cinnamon rolls.
- Hot drinks like mulled cider, hot chocolate, or spiced tea to sip while you cook.
Cooking in the winter isn’t just practical; it’s a way to create warmth and happiness, one delicious bite at a time.
6. Look For the Little Things That Bring Joy in the Winter Season
Winter has its annoyances for sure, but if you look closely, there’s plenty to appreciate about this chilly season.
For one, it’s the ultimate reprieve from bugs—no mosquitoes buzzing in your ear or flies landing on your food. It’s also a time when some of the little grooming routines can take a backseat. Shaving less often, anyone? Long sleeves and cozy layers mean there’s no pressure to keep up with the summer smoothness.
And then there are the underrated comforts: hot showers feel extra luxurious when the air is cold, and nothing beats wrapping up in your favorite scarf before heading out the door.
The quiet beauty of a frosty morning or the way snow muffles the world is something to savor.
Even everyday tasks, like sipping a steaming cup of coffee or seeing your breath in the air, can remind you of how special winter really is. When you start noticing these little joys, it’s easier to fall in love with the season.
Little Things to Love About Winter:
- No bugs buzzing around or crawling into your space.
- Shaving and pedicure routines can relax a bit.
- Hot showers feel even better on cold days.
- Steaming drinks taste cozier and more comforting.
- Layers mean more chances to wear your favorite knits and scarves.
- Frosty mornings and snowy landscapes create quiet, peaceful scenes.
- Seeing your breath in the cold air feels kind of magical.
- Cuddling under blankets becomes a legitimate pastime.
Once you start finding these hidden gems, winter can start to feel like your own little secret season of joy.
7. All the Thick Lotions & Potions
This one goes hand in hand with the last section of little things winter has to offer. It’s a very pampering season while all the warm baths and thick lotions you need to put on after the warm baths.
Winter dry skin is the worst so thick, creamy body butters that smell amazing are a must. It’s the perfect time to spoil yourself with skin protecting products.
You can buy or make a hobby out of it with some homemade recipes like our Whipped Cocoa Body Butter or Mango Body Butter (my personal favorite!). You can also make our Shea Butter Lip Balm for chapped lips or a DIY Avocado Conditioning Hair Mask for dry hair.
Winter is the perfect excuse to indulge in a little extra self-care. Treating yourself to nourishing products isn’t just practical—it’s a way to feel pampered and refreshed all season long.
8. Crafting and Hobbies
Speaking of homemade, embrace your inner artisan during the winter months. Whether it’s knitting, painting, sewing, baking, candle making, or any other kind of crafting, winter is a great time to indulge in cozy crafts at home.
Playing board games, doing puzzles, reading are all perfect winter hobbies as well. I love to give books, puzzles, board games and fun crafts like diamond art as holiday gifts so friends and family have something to do when stuck in doors.
Make sure you find your own way to engage in projects that bring you joy. It’s a great way to express your creativity and feel good about yourself when you might be feeling a little blue.
9. Set Intentions for the New Year
Use the quiet of winter to journal, reflect, and plan goals for the year ahead. Winter’s slower pace is a natural time to set simple, meaningful intentions for the year ahead.
Instead of overwhelming yourself with big resolutions, focus on small, manageable changes that align with a simpler, more intentional life. Think about habits that bring peace and joy, like creating a morning routine, spending more time in nature, or setting aside regular moments for rest.
Use this time to reflect on what truly matters to you and let go of anything that feels like unnecessary clutter—whether it’s physical possessions, commitments, or even habits that no longer serve you.
Simple living is all about finding clarity and purpose, and winter offers the perfect space to ease into those changes without pressure.
Enjoy Your Slow Winter Season
Winter doesn’t have to feel like a long, cold stretch after the holidays—it can be a season full of quiet joys and meaningful moments. By slowing down, embracing coziness, and finding beauty in the little things, winter becomes an opportunity to rest, recharge, and reconnect.
Whether you’re savoring the comfort of a warm meal, creating a snug home, or setting simple intentions for the year ahead, there’s so much to love about this peaceful season.
With the right mindset and a few thoughtful touches, winter can be a time to truly enjoy.
What are some of your favorite things to do in the winter season to make it special? Please let us know in the comments below!
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