As I write this today is officially the first day of fall. Many people associate the ending of summer with seasonal depression, the winter blues, and cold gray days. But fall and winter can be just as exciting as spring and summer if you just focus on the right aspects of the seasons! Here’s 5 reasons to get excited about the cold weather months:
1. Hygge- Of course hygge can be practiced any time of the year, but the true time to shine for hygge is fall and winter. Hygge was made for these seasons, as Scandinavians use it to combat then doldrums of the cold dark months that follow Summer.
When it comes to hygge its all about comfort and creating a certain atmosphere. Candles and twinkle lights replace bright overhead lighting. Warm comforting drinks are served and baked goods are always ready to accompany them. Blankets and pillows are utilized to create cozy spaces and friends and family are always welcome. Instead of using screens for entertainment people read, tell stories, create art and just talk around woodburning stoves or fireplaces. Not everyone has a real wood burning fireplace or stove in their house but with so many options for electric ones these days you can still get the same effect of a warm glow in any room. Check out my post on how I made a cozy dining room fireplace from scratch here! Practicing hygge creates an ambiance you just can’t get in warm weather months and its my top reason to get excited about fall and winter.
2. Decorations- I love changing out my home decor to fit the season but there is nothing like decorating for harvest and Christmas time. The rich autumn colors and festive holiday cheer make home feel like such a warm and inviting place. There’s nothing like the twinkle of a Christmas tree or the smell of a pumpkin spice candle to uplift any spirit. And even after the new year when it’s time to take everything down, I still leave up certain pieces that carry us through the winter season like twinkle lights, holly and evergreen arrangements and even a snowman or two. And of course there’s always lots and lots of candles and a fire going in the fireplace.
3. Food- Spring and summer are perfect for fresh salads, ripe fruit and BBQ’s but fall and winter are my favorite time of year for food. Soups and stews are choc full of vegetables, meats and delicious spices and seasonings. And baking scrumptious breads, pies, pastries and more is always easier when it’s not 90 degrees outside. The warmth of the oven and the glorious smells that fill the house are something you just can’t appreciate like you can when there’s a chill in the air! And who doesn’t love coming in from the snow and sleet to a hot cup of coco or tea?
4. New beginings- Most people think of the new year as a time to set goals and start a new slate but for me the inspiration for goal setting and planning always hits at the end of August. There’s something about the start of a new school year that drives me to start fresh even though I haven’t been in school in years. Fall and winter just seem like the right time to map out a plan and crush some goals before the start of another spring and summer.
Maybe its because people tend to stay in and hibernate a little more during these months so there’s less distraction from things like pool parties, BBQ’s and beach days but I find that September through March is when I’m most likely to put my head down and work like crazy on accomplishing my goals.
5. The activities- Apple picking, pumpkin picking, camping, bonfires, holiday parties, and all kinds of Halloween and Christmas themed events are great reasons to get excited for fall and winter. And when the weather outside is frightful, inviting some friends over for a Halloween or Christmas movie marathon is the perfect way to stay warm by the fire.
After the whirlwind of the holidays is over, January and February can be a little less full of social events but I think this is the perfect time focus on you. Re-evaluate your goals, spend extra time on self-care and exercise, and use this “hibernation time” to get back on track with health and wellness. Stick with a routine and come spring time, they won’t even recognize you!
Bonus #6: Fall fashion- Don’t get me wrong, I love a good sun dress just as much as the next guy but my favorite time of year for clothes and accessories is definitely fall and winter. I just love everything from the oversized sweaters and boots to the scarves and hats. Whether your headed out or staying in there’s always something cozy to wrap up in and its juts another reason to get excited for the cold weather months!
