Getting Out of a Rut in Winter
Let’s be real. Winter can be tough. The mornings are darker, the days shorter, and the energy... well, it often feels like it’s packed up and gone into hibernation. Around this time of year, you can find yourself slipping into a bit of a rut.
It starts small—maybe hitting snooze a little longer (unless small humans drag you up!), skipping the workout, opting for cereal or just coffee instead of a nourishing breakfast. Before you know it, you can feel sluggish, unmotivated, and that sneaky little voice starts whispering, “Just ride it out until it's warmer.”
But here’s the truth: we don’t have to wait for the season to change to shift our energy.
Here’s what I do when the winter blues start to creep in:
1. Start Small (like, really small)
My go-to micro-goal? Make the bed. Yep, that’s it. It sounds so simple, but it signals to my brain that the day has started. It brings order to the chaos—just one corner of calm before the morning madness kicks off. Plus it means when I do eventually get to crash at the end of days that feel really long it's a space that is ready.
2. Reclaim a Ritual
In summer, our daily wellbeing go-tos are a lot easier - warmth and light will do that. Maybe it is walking the dogs, standing outside and taking some deep breaths, having a shower before the kids are up or getting in a batch of homemade muffins into the oven before you start breakfast. Choosing just one wellbeing ritual to bring back can change your entire morning, mindset and subsequently your day! It means no matter how pear-shaped things go - well you have already won the day.
3. Move Your Body (even if you’re still in your PJs)
Movement shifts mood—every time. If a workout feels like too much, or just that extra step pop on some music and headphones even and just do a physical task like unload the dishwasher or vacuuming - you can also do some mobility work (keep that foam roller handy) - this all counts and it will help to shift both mind and body - you might just surprise yourself by wanting to do more after. Starting is the key. One of the reasons I have black pj bottoms is so I can walk the dogs in them! Yes just chuck on a jumper and go (no one else knows...well unless you read this blog!).
4. Feed Your Soul (and your body)
Comfort food doesn’t have to mean junk. A nourishing soup, slow-cooked stew, or veggie-packed tray bake—these can be incredibly supportive for our energy and immunity in winter. Nourishment isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. Be sure to watch for all my forthcoming DJK Winter Goodies including this new ("everything-free") savoury loaf! 
5. Be Kind to Yourself
We’re not machines. Winter invites us to slow down, and that’s not a weakness. If you’re feeling the heaviness, acknowledge it. Speak gently to yourself. You’re doing the best you can—and that’s enough.
Mama, if you’re feeling stuck right now, please know you’re not alone. This season won’t last forever, but how we show up for ourselves in it matters. Take one small step today. Just one. And know that I’m right here with you, warm coffee in hand, cheering you on.
With love,
Dr. Julie
P.S My new Winter Wellness Guide (and virtual event) are both also coming packed full of tips, wisdom and of course recipes to help! 