Winter is coming. For many, that means months of low energy, bad moods, and a desire to hibernate. The “winter blues” are, in fact, real. Of course, we all know we should exercise and eat right. However, sometimes the standard advice just isn’t enough. The good news is that there are other, slightly “weird” habits that can make a huge difference. Consequently, these simple and effective habits can help you thrive, not just survive.
Embrace 10-Minute Morning Sunlight
It sounds too simple, but getting direct sunlight into your eyes within the first hour of waking is a game-changer. (Don’t look directly at the sun.) Instead, just stand by a window or on your porch. This morning light helps set your body’s circadian rhythm and boosts cortisol (your ‘wake-up’ hormone) in a healthy way. As a result, this leads to more energy during the day and better sleep at night.
Schedule “Social Snacks”
Winter often makes us want to isolate, which is terrible for our mental health. A “social snack” is a short, low-stakes social interaction. For instance, it’s not a three-hour dinner but rather a five-minute call with a friend or a quick chat with your barista. These micro-doses of connection are incredibly effective at combating the loneliness that winter can bring.
Try “Productive” Hibernation
Instead of fighting the urge to slow down, lean into it. But do it with purpose. This is not about mindlessly scrolling on the couch; rather, this is “productive hibernation.” Use the dark evenings to journal, read that stack of books, learn to knit, take a long, luxurious bath, or make a big batch of soup. Ultimately, this reframes rest as an active, restorative process.
Eat One Fermented Thing a Day
Your gut health is deeply connected to your mental health; indeed, the gut-brain axis is real. Winter often means heavy, sugary comfort foods, which can disrupt your gut microbiome. However, adding one fermented item—like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, or kefir—can help. It feeds the good bacteria in your gut, which can have a direct, positive impact on your mood and immune system.
Take a Cold Shower (Just for 30 Seconds)
This is the one nobody wants to do, but it works. You don’t need a 10-minute ice bath. Instead, just end your normal warm shower with 30 seconds of cold water. This practice can activate your sympathetic nervous system and release endorphins. Additionally, it serves as a powerful, natural mood booster. This mental-toughness habit also makes you feel accomplished first thing in the morning.
Swap Your Nightly Scroll for a Book
This is one of the most effective weird health habits for winter. The blue light from your phone, after all, is telling your brain it’s daytime, which in turn destroys your sleep quality. Therefore, an hour before bed, put your phone away. Then, read a physical book under a warm light. This simple swap will help you fall asleep faster and will also dramatically improve the quality of your sleep.
Practice “Movement Stacking”
Getting to the gym in the dark is hard, so “movement stacking” is the solution. You “stack” a small bit of movement onto a habit you already have. For example, do 20 squats every time you brew coffee. Then, do 10 wall push-ups every time you go to the bathroom. After you send an email, do 60 seconds of stretching. Over time, it adds up, keeping your blood flowing and your energy up all day.
Don’t Just Survive Winter—Thrive in It
Winter does not have to be a season you just “get through.” Instead, it can be a time of restoration and peace. By adopting a few of these weird health habits for winter, you can support your body and mind, manage your energy, and protect your mental health. Ultimately, it is about finding small, consistent ways to show up for yourself, even when it is cold and dark.
What are your own “weird” health habits that help you get through the winter? Share your best tips in the comments.
What to Read Next…
- Self-Destruction: 8 Everyday Habits That Secretly Destroy Your Mental Health
- 10 Relationship Rules That Sound Healthy But Create Distance
- Living Alone? Security Experts Say to Turn Off This One Smart Home Setting Immediately
- 7 Common Mental Health Myths Debunked
- 6 Mental Health Myths That Need to Die in 2025
The post 7 “Weird” Health Habits That Will Get You Through Winter Feeling Amazing appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
