Chill the F*ck Out: Embracing Rest and Reconnection This Winter

We live in a culture that values productivity above everything else, but that mindset isn’t sustainable. If we don’t slow down and rest, our bodies will force us to—usually by getting sick or completely running out of energy. Winter is the perfect time to embrace a slower pace and focus on nurturing ourselves.

Here are some simple ways I’ve found to pause, rest, and reconnect during the colder months.

1. Start with Meditation

Meditation doesn’t have to be fancy or time-consuming. I use Insight Timer because it offers meditations that are just a few minutes long. I’ll sit quietly, lay on a yoga mat, or listen to a breathing meditation. The goal isn’t to silence your mind completely; it’s about giving yourself a little break from the constant stream of thoughts.

Meditation helps me create space to breathe and reset. It’s like hitting pause on the day, even if it’s just for five minutes.

2. Rest Without Guilt

Taking time to rest is essential, not indulgent. I’ve learned to listen to my body, and when I need a nap, I take one. If we don’t give ourselves permission to rest, we risk burning out completely.

Rest looks different for everyone, but it’s about recognizing that slowing down is just as important as moving forward.

3. Move Intentionally

For me, winter is a time to lean into slower forms of movement, like yin yoga or fascia yoga. These practices feel nurturing and restorative.

When I take time to breathe and stretch on my yoga mat, it’s not about performance. It’s about being present in my body and honoring what it needs.

4. Explore Creativity

I’ve recently started experimenting with watercolor painting, and it’s been such a grounding experience. There’s something calming about making simple brush strokes and watching the paint flow on the paper.

Painting slows my breathing and creates a space where I can focus entirely on the process. It’s not about being good at it; it’s about enjoying the moment.

5. Light Candles for a Cozy Vibe

One of my favorite ways to create calm is lighting candles. I arrange them on a tray and let the glow fill the room. Watching the flicker of the flames can feel as soothing as sitting by a campfire.

It’s a simple ritual, but it brings me so much peace, especially in the quieter mornings of winter.

6. Protect Your Time and Energy

Learning to say no has been a huge shift for me. It’s not about being rude or unkind—it’s about protecting my time and energy. By saying no to things that don’t align with my priorities, I can create space for what truly matters.

This has allowed me to feel more grounded and less overwhelmed. It’s a practice I’m continuing to refine, but it’s already made a big difference.

What feels good to you?

Not everything I do will resonate with everyone, and that’s okay. Rest and reconnection look different for each of us. Maybe for you, it’s cooking, walking in nature, journaling, or listening to music.

Have fun with it, experiment and discover what helps you chill TF out!

Want to listen to the podcast episode that inspired this blog? Listen to the Spirit of a Badass Episode 59: What I'm Doing to Chill TF Out