I had a really great, quiet, chilled weekend. With my daughter out all weekend, I enjoyed a teen-free couple of days to myself. Weekends like this, where I have nothing planned, are especially enjoyable, particularly as we move into the colder winter months. I’ve always found something comforting about staying in when the weather turns brisk outside, wrapping myself up and indulging in good food and good television.

Both Friday and Saturday were mostly spent in front of the TV. I made sure to stock up on my favourite snacks and meals in advance. This weekend, I unintentionally ended up having quite a few pasta dishes, which I was completely fine with, as pasta is one of my go-to comfort foods. There’s something about a warm bowl of pasta that feels satisfying and cosy, especially as the temperatures dip.

On both nights, I got into bed early. After a long week, it felt great to unwind, switch on YouTube, and watch some of my favourite channels. I’ve recently been getting into more documentaries and lifestyle content, which has been surprisingly refreshing. It’s amazing how much you can discover about different topics, from travel to cooking, simply by diving into a few videos.

Sunday began with a really early start. I woke up feeling surprisingly refreshed, which is always a nice surprise on a weekend. I started the day with some fruit and yogurt, paired with a strong cup of coffee. This simple breakfast never fails to set the right tone for my day. Following breakfast, I indulged in one of my long, relaxing baths. While I usually prefer to be in and out of the bath fairly quickly, this Sunday, I took my time, soaking in the warmth and enjoying a moment of peace. The longer I stayed, the more relaxed I felt, which was a great way to prepare for the day ahead.

Shortly after my dad arrived at my house. He stopped by for a cup of tea, and we caught up for a bit before deciding to head to the pub for an hour. The weather was surprisingly mild for the time of year, and I was glad I had put on my new coat. It kept me warm and comfortable during our outing. The pub was quiet, but that’s what I prefer—just a nice place to sit, enjoy a drink, and have a good chat.

After a leisurely hour, we returned home to pick up my daughter and bring her back. She was in good spirits, and I wanted to treat her to something nice for dinner. So, I ordered a Domino's pizza as a little surprise. I opted for leftover spaghetti bolognese, which I had made the previous day. The pasta theme of the weekend seemed to continue! It was all about comfort food, and I was more than happy to indulge in that.

Overall, the weekend was incredibly nice, quiet, and relaxing. Sometimes, it’s the simple pleasures in life that matter the most. After all the hustle and bustle of daily life, having a weekend like this reminds me of the importance of taking a step back and just enjoying the moment.

As for tonight, once I’ve finished what needs to be done, I plan to watch episode 2 of the new Penguin series, which I’ve been looking forward to all week. I’m all caught up on Tulsa King series 2 after watching episode 3 last night, so it’ll be nice to settle down with something new to watch. I find that these series provide a great escape, and it’s enjoyable to get lost in the stories and characters.

In a world that often feels rushed, I appreciate these moments of calm. Whether it’s enjoying a bowl of pasta, getting lost in a good series, or having a long bath, these little routines are what keep me grounded. The weather is getting colder, and while I know the winter months can sometimes feel long, they also provide an opportunity to slow down. I’m looking forward to more weekends like this, where I can focus on self-care and enjoyment without any rush.

I’m also contemplating how I’ll approach the upcoming weeks as we move deeper into autumn. With Halloween around the corner, I’ve started picking up a few decorations here and there. I don’t usually go all out for it, but there’s something nice about having a few seasonal touches in the house. It adds a bit of festivity to the everyday routine.

As we approach October, it’s easy to feel the shift in atmosphere—days are getting shorter, and the chill in the air is becoming more noticeable. I’m sure I’ll settle into a comfortable rhythm as we transition into the new season. Maybe I’ll even consider some autumnal activities, although for now, I’m perfectly content with my current routine.
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After a busy week, it’s nice to have a few days to recharge and enjoy the comforts of home. Here’s to more weekends like this, filled with good food, great shows, and the joy of doing nothing at all.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, winter can often bring a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to our mental health and overall well-being. The festive season may bring joy for some, but for others, it can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During these darker months, prioritising mindfulness and self-care becomes essential to maintaining a healthy mindset.

Understanding the Impact of Winter on Mental Health

Winter can have a profound effect on our mood and energy levels. The lack of sunlight can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, which may contribute to feelings of sadness or lethargy. Additionally, the holiday season can bring about pressure to meet social expectations, which may lead to stress or anxiety. Recognising these factors is the first step towards practising effective self-care.

Embrace Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, fully engaging with your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. This practice can help mitigate feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm, making it particularly beneficial during the winter months. Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:

• Meditation: Taking just a few minutes each day to sit in silence, focusing on your breath, can have a significant impact on your mental state. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations that can ease you into the practice.

 

• Nature Walks: Even in winter, spending time outdoors can be beneficial. A brisk walk in nature allows you to observe the beauty of the season, helping you to feel grounded and connected.

 

• Mindful Eating: With the comfort foods of winter often high on our lists, practising mindful eating can help you enjoy your meals while also listening to your body’s hunger signals.

Prioritising Self-Care

Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessary aspect of maintaining our mental health. Here are some practical self-care tips to help you through the winter months:
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• Establish a Routine: Having a consistent daily routine can provide structure and stability. Make sure to include time for activities that you enjoy, whether that’s reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones.

 

• Stay Connected: It’s easy to isolate yourself during the colder months. Make a conscious effort to reach out to friends and family, whether through video calls, texts, or even small gatherings. Human connection is vital for our mental health.

 

• Nourish Your Body: During winter, it’s tempting to indulge in rich comfort foods. While it’s perfectly okay to enjoy treats, also focus on nourishing your body with a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

 

• Physical Activity: Exercise is a natural mood booster. Even if it’s chilly outside, try to find indoor workouts you enjoy, such as yoga, home workout videos, or even dance.

 

• Limit Screen Time: While it’s tempting to binge-watch shows during the winter months, excessive screen time can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression. Set boundaries around your screen time and consider using that time for activities that bring you joy.

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• Create a Cosy Space: Transform your home into a warm and inviting sanctuary. Light candles, use fairy lights, and snuggle up with soft blankets to create a relaxing atmosphere that encourages rest and rejuvenation.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

​If you find that feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness persist, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talking to a mental health professional can provide valuable support and guidance. Many therapists now offer virtual sessions, making it easier to seek help from the comfort of your home.

Winter can undoubtedly be a challenging time for many, but by incorporating mindfulness practices and prioritising self-care, you can navigate this season with greater ease. Taking small steps to nurture your mental health will not only help you cope but may also enhance your overall quality of life during these darker months. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity, and you deserve to thrive no matter the season.