5 Soothing Mindfulness Techniques for Winter
It’s the middle of winter here in Australia and after a week of rainy, windy and chilly days, I’m feeling particularly grateful for soothing and relaxing mindfulness techniques and practices.
I can see snow on the mountains from my office window and my toes get cold when I don’t wear my slippers inside.
My plants have mostly stopped growing (except my Calathea Orbifolia, who seems to be quite happy!) and when I take my dogs outside in the mornings, I can see my breath on the air.
Sometimes, there’s just nothing better than taking the opportunity to slow down during winter and indulge in a soothing mindfulness practice. So, here are some of my favourite ways to be more mindful during winter – I hope you enjoy them, too!
Mindfulness Technique #1
Have mindful conversations
It’s easy to forget about the importance of talking and listening mindfully, but the slowness of winter can give us ample opportunities for this activity. With the longer nights and colder weather, we might spend more time indoors with the people close to us.
Try making an effort to turn off the television and put phones away so you can sit down with a loved one and have a meaningful conversation.
Ask them how their day was, what they’re looking forward to, how their work has been, how they’re feeling, or what they’re planning for the weekend. Be open-minded and curious about their responses – consciously choose to show them you’re listening to what they have to say.
For more tips on mindful listening and communication, be sure to check out the following episodes of The Mindful Kind podcast:
Episode 24: How to be a Mindful Listener
Episode 101: Introduction to Communication
Episode 104: Encouraging Others to Communicate
Episode 105: Simple Ways to Practice Communication
You can also enter your details below to receive a beautiful free guide for more mindful communication. It’s filled with powerful journaling prompts, handy communication tips, public speaking strategies, and so much more!
Mindfulness Technique #2
Listen to music
One of my favourite ways to relax on a chilly day is to snuggle on the couch, wrap myself up in a blanket, pop in some earphones and listen to soothing meditation music.
By the end of this mindfulness technique, I tend to feel calm and a little sleepy – it’s a beautiful way to slow down.
I find it really easy to mindfully listen to meditation music because my mind enjoys focusing on the different sounds.
My favourite meditation music is by Tahlee Rouillon, who creates “meditones” – binaural beats and beautiful music which help the listener sink into meditation or relaxation. Discover more about Tahlee’s meditones on Seekers’ Sanctuary.
Mindfulness Technique #3
Notice the weather
A really simple way to be more mindful in your daily life is to take some time to notice the weather. If there is a rare day of sunshine, you could go for a walk and enjoy the rays. You could lie in bed and listen to the rain on the roof. If you leave your house and there’s frost on the ground, try listening to the crunch of it underneath your feet. Watch snow falling or wind whipping through the trees.
Even though this mindfulness technique is quite simple, it can be a really nice way to experience winter and the things that make it special.
Mindfulness Technique #4
Yin yoga
Yin yoga is a great way to release tension in the body and cultivate physical relaxation. Some of us tend to spend more time sitting down in winter (with the longer nights and cold weather), so taking the time to stretch can be extra helpful.
Yin yoga is also a wonderful opportunity for mindful movements. Each pose is held for several minutes, allowing time to move slowly and settle into the poses.
Usually, the yoga studio will be warm and you can use a bolster and blankets to stay cosy. I also enjoy closing my eyes and really resting or tuning into my breath!
Mindfulness Technique #5
Drink coffee, tea or hot chocolate
Each morning, I sit down on the couch and cuddle with my dogs (who are especially snuggly in winter!) and enjoy a cup of coffee. In the afternoon, I do the same thing with a cup of tea or hot chocolate. It’s a lovely way to make some time for mindfulness and to enjoy a delicious, warm drink.
Here are some simple tips for trying this mindful drinking technique out yourself:
-Feel the warmth of the mug in your hands
-Notice the aroma and flavour of your drink
-Observe the texture of the liquid in your mouth
-Look at the colour of your mug
Quick question – do you love reading or listening to audiobooks during the winter months? I sure do! It’s so wonderful to climb into bed early, snuggle under the covers and get lost in a good read. If you’d like to keep learning more about mindfulness, be sure to grab a copy of my book, The Mindful Kind! Click here to find out more and enter your details below to receive a FREE chapter sample straight to your email inbox!
