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Navigating Your Winter Arc Era: Tips & Tricks

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Toronto MU chapter.

As the air grows crisper every morning, warm drinks are becoming our go-to’s, and the days shorten with earlier sunsets, it’s clear we’ve entered the beloved (or dreaded) colder seasons. 

This time of year can be busy with the holidays, winter activities, school, work, and numerous other tasks on the endless to-do lists. However, it can also be a time for personal growth and renewal, or what many now refer to as their winter arc.

More Than Just a Trend

This concept gained traction on TikTok, where creators began sharing their goals for the winter months, embracing the idea of “levelling up” before the warmer seasons arrived.

Essentially, the winter arc is all about focusing on a set of goals to transform yourself ahead of the new year. What started as a viral trend has since evolved into a powerful lifestyle movement centred on personal development, reflection, and transformation.

Tips on Embracing Your Winter Arc

Winter arcs look different for everyone. Think of it like setting New Year’s goals, but instead of doing so on Jan. 1, you’re starting right now. (So don’t feel guilty if you’re a bit late to set those New Year’s resolutions; they still stand with your winter arc!)

Fitness is often a key focus for winter arcs and this can mean different things for various people. Whether you’re simply aiming to get your body moving or working towards specific results, this is a great time to prioritize physical health. Use the prolonged time indoors to hit the gym, follow online workout tutorials, or attend fitness classes — the colder months offer the perfect opportunity to get in shape and stay active.

Hobbies and personal interests are just as important in levelling up during your winter arc. They give you the chance to explore new passions and learn about your likes and dislikes. Engaging in hobbies helps you grow in ways that are more than just physical by engaging your mind and exploring the creativity within you. Try crocheting, reading, running, or anything that sparks your interest and adds joy to your daily routine. 

The winter season is also one of the most popular times to indulge in food. Similar to fitness, food goals can mean something different for everyone. Whether it’s allowing yourself to savour the sweetest of treats this season without guilt — simply because you deserve it — or setting some nutrition goals for health or otherwise. At the end of the day, enjoy foods that make you feel good and help your body and your spirit. 

This season can also be a great time for organization and decluttering, especially when it comes to your wardrobe. Over time, it’s easy to accumulate clothes that no longer reflect your personal style. This is the perfect time to go through your wardrobe and assess what you love before the warmer seasons arrive. Take the time to part with items that no longer serve you, whether by selling, creating something new, or donating. An item that may no longer serve you could be someone else’s treasure. By doing so, you’ll not only create space for yourself but also refresh your closet to only have items that bring you joy. 

The beauty of a winter arc is that it’s entirely customizable to help you grow in ways that best suit you. Use these colder months to prioritize yourself, and remember to put yourself first on this journey of self-improvement. 

What’s first on your winter arc?

Hi, I’m Atiya! I’m a journalist at Toronto Metropolitan University, with a minor in communication design. This combination allows me to channel my passion for storytelling through both words and digital creation. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at City, University of London in the UK. My time in London was an unforgettable experience, filled with academic growth and cultural exploration that broadened my perspective on the world. As a travel and fashion enthusiast, I’m always either planning my next adventure or staying up-to-date with the latest trends. Apart from that, you’ll likely find me exploring new cafés, indulging in my love for matcha and coffee! Find me on Instagram! @atiyatmalik