Winter brings mixed feelings for everyone. Perhaps you can’t wait to dig out your sweaters, or you’re feeling anxious for finals season. Whatever the scenario, we’ve rounded out the best self-care tips for December.
Establish a skincare routine that works for you
The world of skincare is rapidly growing. There seem to be new products and rituals every day, which can feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever tried a skincare routine that you ended up quitting within the first week, then maybe it’s time to reevaluate and change up your routine. If you struggle to follow through with your routine, try to cut down on some steps. Start with some basic steps and products, and then build your way up when you’re ready. But starting out with a simple yet achievable routine ensures that your skin will still get the attention it needs without it being a huge hassle. The transition from summer to winter is a great time to reevaluate your routine, as you modify it to match your skin’s needs for the changing weather. One way you can do this is by moisturizing more frequently. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some fall into your current self-care routine, such as this pumpkin eye retinol cream to replenish the under-eye skin or this pack of fall-flavored chapstick. Despite the darker days ahead, remember to keep up with sun protection.
Meditate
It’s crucial to ground yourself amidst the chaos, and meditation is a great practice that can help you remain calm in stressful situations. If you’re in a rush, try the 4-7-8 breathing technique. Begin by sitting or standing in a comfortable position. Then, breathe in for four seconds, hold that breath for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. Keep repeating that until you feel grounded.
If you’d prefer a quick and easy guided meditation, try this 5-minute guided mediation. If you’re looking for something longer, try this 20-minute mindful meditation aimed at letting go of the past and keeping you in the present.
Spend time outside (Even if it’s cold or rainy)
As the winter approaches, it can feel impossible to get out of your room, or even your bed. Spending time outdoors every day can be beneficial in fighting stress and seasonal depression, and can be a good way to get some exercise. Since it tends to get darker earlier in the winter, take advantage of the sunshine during the day. It’s easy to become discouraged when it’s cloudy, cold, or rainy, but even a quick walk will give you some energy. If you are having trouble getting started, try walking in nature or bringing a friend with you.
Sleep! Sleep! SLeep!
We all know the importance of sleep. Yet, as college students, it’s rare that we get a comfortable night’s sleep — especially during finals. It’s hard enough to deal with exam stress and balance a social life, but add the end of daylight savings and your sleeping schedule can get thrown off even more. If you have trouble falling asleep, it can be exhausting to find a refreshing sleep schedule. A good way to combat this problem is to establish a nighttime routine. It doesn’t have to be huge, just something that you know you can do daily. Some examples include journaling (a simple reflection of the day) or reading (fiction or nonfiction, whatever helps you relax). If you’re looking for something different, sleep apps are also a great way to fight those tosses and turns each night. Apps like Calm and Headspace provide stories (yes, like bedtime stories), whereas apps like Pzizz and Noisli allow you to play white noise while you sleep.
eat well (fuel your body rewrite)
Fueling your body is an important aspect of self-care (and the most delicious one too). Eating meals that are “good” for you, should not feel like a burdening task. Rather, you should take this as an opportunity to experiment and try out new foods. Don’t let internet fads tell you there is only one way to eat right. Try to aim for balanced meals each day instead of depriving yourself of certain foods. While cooking your own meals allows you to have more control over ingredients (which is helpful if you have certain food allergies or restrictions), not everyone has the space, budget, or longing to cook. School dining halls also offer many options, or you can treat yourself to takeout from time to time (balance is everything).
take time for self-care
The best way to start self-care is to acknowledge the need to put yourself first. And this is crucial to remember in December, as people head home for the holidays. Make sure to take time for yourself each day, so that you can enjoy this season to the fullest.