The Joy of Unwinding

Summer’s officially over, which means darker mornings and earlier nights, and if you’re anything like me, you can already feel the winter blues creeping in. I’ve always struggled to relax without that nagging feeling of guilt – as if I should be doing something 'productive' or worthwhile with my time. But I’ve come to realise that there’s nothing more important than allowing yourself some guilt-free downtime.

I want to be upfront, though – I certainly don’t have it all figured out. I still have days where I’m my own worst enemy, barely leaving my bed, knowing full well I’ll regret it later. But those days are becoming fewer and farther between. There are plenty of reasons for this progress, but one major factor is what I want to talk about today: changing my perspective on self-care.

Self-care isn’t just about indulging in a spa day or heading out for a ten-mile hike (although, no doubt, both can help). It’s about making time to unwind, recharge, and check in with yourself, even if you’re juggling a thousand things at once. Whether it’s taking a cosy nap, lighting a few candles, or curling up with a cuppa, self-care is essential for keeping your mind and body in check, especially when the winter blues set in.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – commonly known as the winter blues – is a form of depression linked to the changing seasons, typically hitting during autumn and winter. The lack of sunlight, coupled with grey skies and colder temperatures, can leave many of us feeling sluggish, down, and disconnected. The good news? Self-care can definitely help lighten the load.

What I’ve learned is that self-care during the colder months is all about listening to your body and doing what feels right for you. Whether that’s getting outside for some fresh air and daylight, taking a few moments to breathe and relax, or simply wrapping up in a blanket with a good book – it all counts. Taking time for yourself helps to recharge your energy, clear your mind, and lift your mood. I've recently begun to appreciate the power of skin care (partly to do with old age creeping in) and swear by Coffee Scrub Co's body scrub. Game changer!

It’s about appreciating the little moments, whatever they may be for you. In winter, when SAD can sneak in, prioritising those small pockets of joy and relaxation becomes even more crucial. Think of it as a way to combat the winter blues while looking after your overall wellbeing.

The beauty of self-care is that it’s personal to you. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and the best routine is the one that slots effortlessly into your life. During the winter months, it might be helpful to make self-care a regular part of your week. Try setting aside time for something you enjoy, whether it’s a brisk walk, a long soak in the bath, or simply putting your feet up with your favourite snack.

And most importantly, don’t feel guilty about taking time for yourself. Self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. By looking after yourself, you’ll be better equipped to support the people around you – and, of course, yourself. So, this winter, make yourself a priority. Grab that blanket, make a hot chocolate, and give yourself permission to rest. Because you deserve it – now more than ever.