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7 Holistic Ways to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Embrace Winter Wellness

Writer's picture: Emily Gardiner Emily Gardiner


We're deep in January's embrace and the winter equinox is behind us, yet spring (arriving 20th March, if you're counting) feels like it's playing hard to get. But here's the thing: while many of us count down to longer days, there's something rather magical about these winter moments that deserve our attention.


As a creative soul who finds inspiration in every season, I've learned that winter isn't just about surviving until spring; it's about discovering warmth in unexpected places.


Picture this: frost crystals sparkling on morning grass like nature's own art installation, cheeky robins hopping between bare branches, and those absolutely spectacular winter sunsets that paint our skies in shades of pink and gold we never see in summer.


Yes, the days might be shorter, but they're filled with opportunities for joy if we know where to look (I believe we calls these glimmers!). There's something utterly delicious about wrapping up in chunky knits for a crisp morning walk, returning to a home warmed by a crackling log fire. Or perhaps your perfect winter moment is curling up in your favourite reading nook, a steaming chai latte in one hand and that book you've been meaning to read in the other.


Winter gives us permission to slow down, to focus inward. It's the perfect season for rediscovering forgotten hobbies, for those long pamper sessions we never seem to find time for in summer. Hot chocolate topped with cream and marshmallows? That's not indulgence, that's self care at its finest!


As a brand designer who draws inspiration from nature's every mood, I've developed quite the toolkit for embracing winter's charms. So, whether you're battling the winter blues or simply looking to add more magic to your frosty days, consider this your creative guide to finding joy in every winter moment.


Let's explore how to transform these darker days into something rather wonderful...


  1. Creative nature therapy


Here's a secret that's too good to keep: winter isn't our creative enemy, it's actually a treasure trove of inspiration waiting to be discovered. Those stark branches against our British grey skies? They're teaching us about balance and negative space. Morning frost patterns? Nature's masterclass in intricate design.


Let's develop our own seasonal creative practice together. Try dedicating time each week for texture hunting, those mindful walks where we photograph interesting patterns and surfaces. These become more than just pretty pictures; they're building blocks for our creative projects and mood lifting memories.


  1. Creating Your biophilic haven


Ready to transform your workspace into a nature inspired sanctuary? This isn't about following some rigid template, it's about creating a space that nurtures your wellbeing and creativity during these darker months. Think of it as building your own slice of paradise that works with, not against, the winter season.


Start with your green companions. Winter hardy plants aren't just pretty additions, they're your wellness team! Peace lilies, snake plants, and ZZ plants are brilliant choices for beginners and plant experts alike. They purify our air and bring life to our spaces even when the outside world seems dormant. Pop a small water feature nearby, and you've got instant calm plus perfect background noise for those focus sessions.


  1. Why not create a nature gallery wall?


Those winter walks we're taking can double as photography expeditions. Capture textures, patterns, and moments that speak to you, they'll serve as both decoration and creative inspiration. Natural materials can find their way into every corner: wooden desk accessories, stone coasters, textured cork boards. And let's not forget the power of scent! A timer controlled diffuser with seasonal scents like pine and cedar can transport us to a woodland retreat, even when we're deep in client work.


  1. Embracing the Morning Light


Let's talk about that game changing relationship with daylight, sunshines. When we're battling those winter blues, every ray of sunshine becomes precious gold for our wellbeing. Creating a morning routine that embraces natural light isn't just helpful, it's transformative for our mental health and creativity.


Start by reassessing your workspace. Those heavy curtains might be keeping in warmth, but they're also blocking out vital morning light. Consider swapping them for lighter fabrics that filter rather than block the sunshine. Position your desk where natural light can dance across your workspace without creating screen glare (yes, we can be both practical and light seeking!).


Those first 15 to 20 minutes outdoors are pure magic for our bodies and minds. Bundle up in your cosiest coat and chunky knit. Whether you're pottering in the garden or taking a brisk walk around the block, this outdoor time sets our bodies up for success. Even on those quintessentially British days when the sky looks like it's having an existential crisis, connecting with the outdoors can shift our entire day's perspective.


  1. The kitchen as your winter wellness studio


There's something utterly magical about turning our kitchens into creative sanctuaries during the winter months. It's not just about cooking, it's about creating moments of joy that warm us from the inside out. When the days feel short and our energy dips, the kitchen becomes our playground for wellness and creativity.


Let's talk about the joy of seasonal cooking. Those root vegetables that seem to multiply in our veg boxes? They're nature's way of giving us exactly what we need. Transform them into velvety soups and hearty stews that nourish both body and soul. Pop on your favourite playlist, light a candle, and turn cooking into a mindful practice rather than just another task on your to do list.


Foraging becomes our winter adventure, even in urban areas, we can find winter treasures like rosehips along park paths or sloes in local hedgerows. There's something deeply satisfying about turning these findings into homemade preserves or infused spirits. It connects us to the season's rhythms and gives us a creative outlet when the winter blues try to creep in.


  1. Creating your hygge


Let's embrace hygge, not as a trendy concept, but as our winter survival strategy. Think of it as creating pockets of joy throughout our day, little moments that light us up from within. It's about transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences.


Start with your morning routine. Rather than rushing through breakfast, set the table properly, yes, even if you're dining solo! Use your favourite mug for that first coffee, light a candle (even at breakfast, we're rebels here), and perhaps add a small vase with winter foliage. These aren't frivolous extras; they're intentional acts of self care that set the tone for our entire day.


Create reading nooks throughout your space, little havens where you can escape with a book and a blanket. The key is layering: soft throws, cushions in various textures, and lighting that makes you feel like you're in your own little story. A small side table for your tea, a plant friend nearby, and you've got yourself a sanctuary.


  1. Aligning business with natural rhythms


Here's where we bring it all together, sunshines. Whether you're running a creative business or working in any field, aligning with nature's rhythms can revolutionise how we work. Winter isn't about pushing through with the same energy as summer, it's about adapting our pace and finding strength in the slower seasons.


Structure your workday around natural light when possible. Those precious daylight hours become prime time for client meetings, creative work, and tasks requiring sharp focus. Save administrative tasks for the darker hours when our creative energy naturally dips.

Your Winter Wellness Action Plan Ready to transform your winter experience? Here's your practical toolkit:


Remember, sunshines, managing SAD isn't about fighting against winter, it's about flowing with it, finding beauty in its quiet moments, and creating warmth in our own unique ways.



Ready to overcome SAD and create your own nature inspired brand?


If you're feeling inspired to bring this natural, seasonal approach into your own business branding, we'd love to help. At Free To Be Creative, we specialise in creating scroll stopping designs that capture the essence of your business while drawing inspiration from the natural world around us.


Book your free brand exploration call today and let's discuss how we can make your business bloom in every season.



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