Embracing the Beauty of Deep Winter

So, today the skies are gray, but are they really? We're expecting some pretty chilly weather here this weekend (-20F wind chill) and you might be dreading it. You may be feeling more alone these days since it's harder to get out of the house, being that it's icy or the bitter cold is keeping you indoors. It's fair to say with this being a much harsher winter for most of the country, that those feelings are absolutely valid. Even I, known for loving the snowy wintry weather, can feel its challenges. Alternatively, living in the mountains for over a decade now has taught me some ways to embrace the beauty of winter and keep things a little more upbeat during this time of the year, and today I was hoping to share a few of these little tidbits with you.

Winter Wonders Bring Me Colors

This particular weekend won't allow for any outdoor play so we'll talk about that a little later on. So, first off, I try to decorate seasonally and what I mean by that is I currently still have a spruce tree in my home. No, it wasn't thrown out on the curb right after Christmas. I celebrate winter by keeping this tree around at least until the snowy weather has lifted, or my tree is done for it...lol. Now I do have a fresh tree, I know what you're thinking, it must be dried out and dangerous at this point, but there's a little secret, which is if you continuously water your tree and try to pick out one at its freshest, you'll often find that your tree merely even drops some needles. In addition, the decor on my tree, embraces and celebrates the winter, the colors of the season, and that even includes a little thought for Valentine's Day with my glass blown heart ornaments as well as some cheery reds. In addition, I've got some cozy blankets and lots of pillows on my couch, which also incorporate the seasons colors. I'm creating a vibe with style and sounds and lights, which next leads me to my choice of music, which often represents a whatever I am in the mood for. I love all the genres, but winter has got me longing for some jazz & classical thanks to my Pops, a little Celtic thanks to my college-aged daughter, and of course 80's girl bands are always welcome thanks to my sis. For me, music is both a personal and impromptu thing, so feel free to choose whatever works for you in the moment. Lighting is also important, I'm using some beeswax candles, small desk lamps, and Himalayan salt lamps, and of course don't forget my tree lights. Picture this... your curled up cozy and snuggly and toasty warm bundled under your blankets and in your fluffy sweater, with the sparkling lights and the bright winter colors and you're looking out your window while the snow is falling, it's picturesque...

Bringing in the Breeze

I'm also letting in the fresh air. I practice shock ventilation, it's commonly used throughout Europe and Germany, letting in the fresh air one to three times per day, for about 5 to 10 minutes in the winter months. This does a few things, first you're letting out all that stale air, as well as some germs. Secondly, you're balancing the moisture within your home and exposing yourself to a little chill, which is frankly way more refreshing than you would expect it to be, but also immune boosting!

Comfort Food at its Finest

Let's talk a little bit about food. So this time of the year we tend to be craving our comfort food and I'm here for it! Let's pull out that crockpot and put in some pastured raised meat with some hearty veggies, kale and carrots, throw in some warming spices like garlic or whatever you fancy, with a side of pumpkin or sweet potatoes. Perfection! Or perhaps you're like me and often need to eat a vegetarian meal, so how about a roasted fatty fish, or a hearty bean stew?

Sharing the Shoveling

Well, maybe now we've gotta go out and do some shoveling, this is when you want to bundle up so you can actually enjoy being out there a little bit, because if you're cold it's definitely not gonna be enjoyable. So grab your warmest sweaters or wear layers, bundle up real good and get out there and get some fresh air and exercise, early enough so you have the time to go at your own pace and take breaks when you need it! Or delegate, you'd be surprised at how many people are willing to help when you ask. In addition, let's remember that our kids are capable, and the best way to teach them that is to allow them to do things on their own without fussing at them. So get them out there shoveling away, they'll enjoy it more than you think and get some of their energy out! They might even thank you when they get older.

Cozy Cocoa & A Book

So now we have come in from the cold and what better than some homemade hot cocoa. I literally just buy some plain Cocoa without sweetener and I add some warming spices to it, so that when we get inside we're warming our bones. I might add some ginger, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, the usual sweet spices that are super warming to the body. Then, I usually add a little bit of coconut sugar (it's lower-glycemic) or some unprocessed green Stevia powder. Typically, I store this blend in a cute cocoa tin on the windowsill, and this way it's ready when we need it. I throw it in a pot with the milk of our choice, I like homemade Almond milk, and Evan, my little guy, he likes grass-fed whole milk. Finally, I throw in a square of over 70% dark chocolate, and stir until warm. Curling up with a book is about perfect right now, and once were toasty, passing our time hunkered down with a good puzzle will do just fine.

Toasty Toes

We do not underestimate the importance of a good hat and good warm socks. Most of the heat in our body is lost through our head and our feet, so if we can keep those toasty that really helps. Try to pick up some that have a little bit of wool in them when you have a little extra to spare. Another thing, energy saving electric heaters can be phenomenal if you don't have a wood-burning or pellet stove. I wouldn't recommend that you keep them on all day long, but when you've come inside from the cold, it can be important to get yourself warm quickly.

Bundling & Braving the Brisk

Okay, so last but not least, and you might think I'm nuts for this, but I absolutely love hiking in the cold and the snow, so long as it's still safe to do so. I swear by this for also boosting the immune system. This year, I have gone hiking in the cold more often than I ever have and I have been my absolute healthiest. My husband happened to save up to buy me a used but extremely warm winter coat that I am comfortable in, in 10°F weather. If you do not have a coat that's gonna keep you warm in that weather, do not attempt this please! Also, a good warm pair of winter boots, with some grip is equally imperative. Please do not forget that you need to cover as much of your skin as possible, and make sure that you know what the frostbite warnings are in your area. You may only be able to walk safely outside for a few minutes, so just keep that in mind. Another thing is, this is not something you want to just jump into if you're not used to doing this, because walking in the snow can be a whole other beast. It's definitely something you want to ease into by just practicing it for a few minutes at a time. Anyhow, not looking to lecture you guys, just to keep you safe!

Nonetheless, there is something so invigorating & magical about being out in that fresh cold air! Now you might come home exhausted and need a nap but that's the second best part!

What are some of your favorite ways to embrace the winter?

You guys take care and have a warm and cozy winter! ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

Wishing you well,

Your cozy & crunchy,

Coach Ash