How To Prepare Yourself For Winter

Preparing for winter is no easy task, especially if you live in a place where it gets cold and snowy! It’s best to prepare yourself mentally and physically, in order to actually enjoy the season. It always takes me a few weeks to adjust to the weather and the changes of the season, then I’m good as gold. I’m a firm believer that we should enjoy each season for what they are, and so I hope these tips help you prepare and make the most of your winter!

1. Switch your skincare products.

Usually the weather forces my hand with this one, as I can feel my skin and lips getting dry. It’s best to get a jump on this by preparing for winter with different products than you might use in the summer. I always use a facial lotion with sunscreen in the morning to protect my skin, and in the winter this helps to moisturize too. I add in hand lotion to my routine, and keep an extra in my bag with me at all times! I also like to add a sugar scrub for my lips into my routine, and reapply lip balm much more frequently during these cold and dry months!

2. Make sure you have the right outerwear.

This tip might seem obvious, but it’s probably the most important in preparing for winter. If you want to be able to spend time outside, or at least make it to your heated car or bus before you freeze, then you’ll need proper outerwear. This year I made sure to stock up on thermal leggings, thick socks, and extra top layers so that I can stay warm no matter what activity I’m doing. Don’t forget a hat, scarf, and gloves. Even if you think you might not need them, it’s best to just wear them and risk being overdressed rather than cold! I know it’s a hassle, but just add an extra few minutes to your routine to get suited up, and you’ll be thankful you did.

3. Get your skis, snowboard, and skates ready.

If you enjoy winter sports like me, then you’ll want to make sure your skates are sharpened and your skis waxed. After a long summer, it’s nice to just take some time and switch out your gear so that when the slopes call, it’s all ready for you. Make sure everything still fits, and that you have the appropriate bags to transport your skis or other gear in. I also like to have a pack of hand and toe warmers on the ready, too.

4. Start your Christmas shopping.

No one likes to shop for Christmas on Christmas Eve, at least I don’t think anyone does! Part of preparing for winter for me is always starting my shopping early! I find that once I’m done getting all the gifts I need, I can relax and actually enjoy the holidays more. It seriously makes such a difference! With the pandemic this year, shopping might look a little different. Try to support the small businesses in your neighborhood, and think about buying ethical and environmentally friendly gifts.

5. Stock up on tea and hot cocoa.

There is no better way of preparing for winter than making sure you have hot beverages on hand at home. When it’s cold out, I often have a few cups of tea a day. I love the simple ritual of making a cup of tea or cocoa, and how it will warm me right up!

6. Make plans for the holidays.

I know this year is a little different because of the pandemic, but you can still make some plans around the holidays that are safe for everyone. Find a drive through lights show, or an outdoor skating rink for a safe activity. Think about planning a safe little getaway if it’s possible. I’m hoping to go on a New Years ski trip as a memorable way to celebrate the holiday! If you can’t gather with your family, think about sending them something, or dropping a package at their door to let them know you’re thinking of them during the holidays.

7. Plan your holiday outfits.

Even if the holidays will look very different this year, I am planning to dress in my holiday best as I do every year! I look forward to picking out my outfits all year for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and all the celebrations in between. Even if there won’t be as many celebrations, I still plan to make these holidays as special as possible and that starts with having an outfit I love! I may have to shop online, but I will definitely be looking my best on Christmas.

8. Make a winter bucket list.

I think this is one of the best ways to mentally prepare for winter, especially this year. Come up with a whole list of ideas of things you want to do this season, so that when you’re bored you won’t have to look far. My winter bucket list always includes ice skating downtown, a hot cocoa from my favorite café, skiing with my dad, and decorating for Christmas. There are so many fun activities that can only be done in the winter, make sure they’re all on your list! Then you’ll have an idea for when the weekend comes around and you need ideas.

9. Collect some cold weather recipes to try.

Nothing screams preparing for winter like stock piling some of your favorite cold weather recipes! The chilly temps definitely call for heartier dishes like chili, lasagna, soups, and stews. In the summer I really enjoy going to the farmer’s market each weekend to buy my produce for the week. I try to continue eating seasonally in the winter, and some farmer’s markets actually remain open during the winter months which is nice! Squash and root vegetables are definitely on the menu, and so are pumpkin pies and Christmas cookies.

10. Create a new routine for the winter months.

This is definitely last but not least on my list of preparing for winter. It might be the most important thing! With daylight savings time and colder weather, our routines are forced to change to accommodate the season. In the summer I love going on longer walks at night, because it gets dark so late. In the winter then I always have to adjust and make sure I get my daily walk in during the day so that it’s not cold and dark! I add hot cups of tea into my routine, extra skincare measures, and cozy time before bed diffusing essential oils like peppermint and rosemary.