Kayla's Blog

With temperatures dipping into the low twenties, paired with a wind chill towards the teens, it only seems fitting to write about my favorite season- winter. 

As fall sports, applications, and the general business of the beginning of the school year begin to wrap up, it can be so easy to fall into a state of sluggishness. And I get it- we’ve all worked hard these months- but winter can be so much more than an in-between period. It can be a time to refocus, while also allowing for ourselves to rejuvenate. 

While Chicago is situated far enough north to experience a true winter, it isn’t far enough to the point in which our culture embraces the cold, such as those in Canada, Alaska, and other Nordic regions. Just because Chicago as a whole tends to have a disdain for winter, doesn’t mean you have to also- in fact, with the right attitude and actions, winter can become quite enjoyable. 

 

First, I’d like to redefine a term that carries many misconceptions: hibernation. I don’t think I’m alone in my experience of thinking it referred to a literal season-long nap. It more loosely is defined as a time in which animals expend less energy to prepare for spring. While humans do not qualify as hibernating animals, with less sunlight, we’re meant to slow down a bit. So, here’s how we can embrace this time, finding the right balance between recovering and avoiding a slump:

 

1. Get Outside

We’ve all heard it. We’ve all made the walk from our cars to the school and decided to skip that afternoon walk. So many times, I’ve opted to run in my basement on the treadmill, staring at a wall, or opting to not run at all. And I can promise, it is so much better for your mental state to see a little sunlight. At first it may seem like a chore, but I’ve learned to love it- there is nothing so exhilarating as the cold air, a beautiful winter sunset, and the clarity and peace in the silence. It is a great way to process the day, and one of the best times to think- in fact, I came up with the idea for this blog on my run today!

2. Connect 

Unlike hibernating animals, we are not meant to isolate ourselves in caves for the winter. So, no matter your level of introversion, find time to connect with those you care about. You don’t have to go on a 10-mile hike or 10-hour shopping spree- setting aside twenty minutes to call a friend or have dinner with your family will do the trick. 

This can also be the perfect way to embrace the season- go ice skating, grab a cup of hot chocolate and admire the lights downtown, or have a movie night- my personal favorites!

On a side note, pets can also count for this! With more time at home, I’ve loved having more time with my cat, Luna. She always joins me when I’m reading on the couch or watching a movie- she definitely loves the attention!

 

3. Romanticize it
   

   Snowflake decorations I made

A few simple actions can make a big difference- here are my favorite things I’ve implemented to brighten this season: 

1. Decorate your space! Recently, I’ve loved making paper snowflakes to hang up on my windows. Fairy lights, winter candles, and cozy blankets are all perfect ways to winterize your room!
2. Read a cozy book or watch a comfort movie. Whether you prefer holiday movies or rom-coms, movies provide a great way to relax and unwind, and embrace this coziness. Further,winter provides a great time to get back into reading. This time of year, I especially enjoy fantasies- I
   

   Some nice lighting can make a difference!

   am currently reading Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo, which has the perfect elements for a cozy winter read.

3. Enjoy baked goods and warm drinks. My favorite routine is to make a hot cup of tea after my run to wind down for homework- while it physically warms you up, it also provides comfort and calmness. Also, a good soup or quick bread can perfectly capture the flavors of the season.

 

Overall, the idea behind these strategies can be encapsulated by a Danish concept called Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga). I was initially made aware of this through TikTok, and upon further research, realized it is something I have implemented for years- to embrace a cozy and content mood to make it through the winter: by connecting with others, making time for ourselves, and rejuvenating. So, no matter your opinions on winter, I hope you can try some of these ideas inspired by Hygge to redefine hibernation and the winter months, making for a better season!