10 winter wellness swaps to make this season feel softer
10 Winter Wellness Swaps to Make This Season Feel Softer
When the days get colder and the evenings draw in early, our routines naturally shift. Winter asks us to slow down, nourish ourselves, and create comforting rituals that support both body and mind. Instead of fighting the season, we can make gentle swaps that help us feel warmer, calmer and more grounded.
As I get further into my 50s, it feels super important to pay attention to how I feel during the seasons, even more so now!
Here are 10 winter wellness swaps you can start today to make the next few months feel softer, cozier and more supportive.
1. Swap cold mornings for slow, gentle starts
Instead of rushing out of bed, give yourself a few extra minutes to stretch, breathe, or sip something warm before looking at your phone. Even one calm moment sets the tone for your entire day. I’m going to bed earlier and naturally getting up earlier too. I will admit to it feeling like a drag when the mornings are so dark but all hail cosy lighting first thing in the morning.
2. Swap harsh lighting for warm, cosy glows
Winter is the perfect time to lean into lamps, candles and soft light. Your nervous system responds to lower lighting by relaxing — perfect for evenings when you need to unwind. I have just found some lovely battery powered lamps from Asda that have added a cosy glow to my kitchen!
3. Swap power workouts for nourishing movement
Your body might crave slower, grounding movement in winter — think gentle yoga, stretching, pilates, or peaceful walks. It still counts, and it’s often just what we need this time of year, and anything I can do in my jammies is for the win.
4. Swap ice-cold drinks for warm hydration
Warm lemon water, herbal tea, even warm apple juice with spices can help keep you hydrated without cooling your body further.
5. Swap screen time for small rituals
Choose one little ritual that feels good: journalling, reading, mindful breathing, anything that makes you feel held. Tiny habits add up, especially in darker months. I am sooooo in love with a good foot rub just now.
6. Swap late-night scrolling for a real bedtime routine
Winter is all about rest. Putting your phone away early — even 20 minutes before bed — helps your mind switch off and encourages deeper, more restful sleep. How many books do you have in your hoose that you are still to get through?
7. Swap cold feet for warm comfort
Wearing warm socks or slippers at home supports circulation, and warm feet help your whole body relax. A little foot massage before bed can work wonders too. My own Twinkle Toes foot balm is wonderful and warming, well… I would say that wouldn’t I?
8. Swap dry, tight skin for deeper hydration
Winter air pulls moisture from the skin faster than we realise. Build small hydration moments into your day: warm showers, moisturising straight after, and staying consistent. A good facial oil never goes amiss, especially at this time of the year too.
9. Swap busyness for boundaries
It’s easy to feel stretched thin this time of year. Give yourself permission to say “no,” rest, or choose the quieter option. Winter is a season of retreat — it’s natural to slow down.
10. Swap overwhelm for softness
Choose kindness over pressure. Let your wellness routine be simple, flexible and human. Winter wellness is not about perfection — it’s about supporting yourself in gentle, doable ways.
A gentle reminder…
Winter isn’t something to endure — it’s something to move through with softness. These swaps help you tune into what your body needs, honour the season, and find calm in small, meaningful ways.