As a busy working mum, I know first hand how challenging it can be to care for everyone else while making time for myself. Especially as the nights draw in and daylight fades. When the winter season rolls around, the shorter days and long, dark evenings often leave me feeling like I want to hide away from the world. Balancing work, motherhood, and the demands of daily life is hard enough, but the winter blues and my ongoing struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can make this time of year particularly tough. That’s exactly why, over the years, I’ve learned that prioritising my winter self-care is so important.
For me, creating a deliberate winter self-care routine isn’t just a luxury. It’s an absolute lifeline. Juggling work, motherhood, and everyday stresses is challenging enough during the best of times, but the cold weather and my struggle with low mood means it’s more important than ever to look after my own mental health and physical health. I’ve learned that the only way I can give my best at work, avoid illness and burnout, and, most importantly, be present and healthy for my son, is by carving out small moments for comfort and kindness in my daily routine.
In this post, I want to share the best ways I’ve found to look after myself during these colder months—the things that really work for me as a busy working mum trying to balance it all. My hope is that these ideas will help you too, whether you’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder, fighting the winter blues, or just trying to stay present and healthy for the people who matter most.
Waking Up Well: Tackling the Dark Mornings
For me, one of the toughest parts of the winter season is dragging myself out of bed while it’s still pitch black outside—especially knowing I have a full workday ahead and the school run to juggle. The lack of sunlight in the mornings doesn’t just zap my motivation, it completely throws off my circadian rhythm. I find myself feeling groggy, already behind, and struggle to muster the energy I need to face the demands of daily life—at work, as a mum, and for myself. This disruption is a big reason why my energy levels take such a dive in the dark winter months, often making my SAD symptoms worse and leaving me at risk of burnout if I don’t prioritize my own needs.
Bring Back the Light
What completely changed my mornings was simulating a natural dawn in my bedroom. Instead of being jolted awake by a blaring alarm in total darkness (never a great start, especially when I know a hectic workday and the school run are waiting!), I use a Sunrise Alarm Clock. It gently lights up the room like the rising sun, waking me up softly and giving my mood a real lift. For me, this small change helps regulate my body clock through the winter and honestly makes a significant difference in how positive and energised I feel for the rest of the day. An absolute must when I’m trying to get through my to-do list at work, and stay healthy for my boy.
I’ve found that exposure to bright lights in the morning is absolutely essential for me, both in managing my seasonal depression and shaking off that sluggish feeling when the shorter days seem endless. Light therapy has become my secret weapon—on those mornings when I’d rather just hit snooze and hide under the duvet, turning on the sunrise lamp is a great way to remind my brain (and my mood!) that a new day is beginning, even when the real sun is nowhere to be seen. It feels like giving myself—and, by extension, my son and my work—the best possible start, helping me show up alert and positive even through the toughest winter mornings.
Hydrate and Nourish
Before I even think about coffee, I make it a rule to start my day with a big glass of water. As a busy mum, it’s so easy to dive straight into caffeine just to keep up, but I’ve noticed that drinking plenty of water first thing helps me feel more awake and less frazzled before the school run and work emails begin.
I also try to have a nutritious breakfast—even if it’s something quick—so I can keep my blood sugar and mood steady throughout the morning. Adding citrus fruits, whole grains, and some protein helps me stave off cravings and gives me some much-needed energy to take on whatever the day throws at me. Since I’m prone to low vitamin D levels (and let’s face it, the sun rarely makes an appearance this time of year), I usually add a vitamin D supplement to my morning routine after chatting with my GP, or I find ways to add vitamin D-rich foods. Taking these little steps means I’m less likely to get run down, which is so important when I want to show up happy and healthy and avoid those bugs that seem to do the rounds in winter.
Embracing the Elements: Outdoor Vitality
If you’re anything like me—a busy working mum trying to juggle work, home life, and everything in between—the urge to hibernate indoors until the warmer months is pretty strong. But I’ve learned, especially since struggling with the isolation of winter and my own seasonal affective disorder, that staying cooped up inside for too much time can be really hard on my emotional health. When I let the days slip by indoors with no change of scenery, I start to notice that heavy feeling of isolation creeping in, along with a kind of sluggishness that makes it even tougher to be present and energetic for my son. Getting outside—even just for a few minutes—has become a lifeline, helping me break that cycle and find some fresh energy even when I’d rather curl up inside.
The Power of Fresh Air
For me, braving the colder temperatures for a brisk walk has become one of the most effective ways to shake off the winter sluggishness and boost my endorphins. As a busy working mum, I know how hard it can be to muster the motivation to step outside when it’s chilly and grey, especially when my energy is low. But each time I make myself get out in the crisp winter air, even for a short stroll—sometimes just around the block with the dog during my lunch break—I feel a shift. The fresh air works wonders for my mood, and being out during those precious daylight hours (even if it’s cloudy) helps me reset mentally and sleep better at night.
Just twenty minutes of natural sunlight can make such a difference. Not just to my own sleep quality, but to my overall mindset as I tackle work, home, and, most importantly, time with my son. It’s not always easy, but I remind myself that these small acts of self-care allow me to show up more present, patient, and positive for the people who need me most.
Don’t let the Weather Stop You
I never let the weather stop me anymore. I can’t my dog wouldn’t let me! So when I have to brave the cold rainy days, I bundle up with warm socks and cosy layers. Sometimes I even make a game of it with my son, seeing who can put on their hat and gloves the fastest. I’ve learned that physical movement is a powerful antidote to stress; even just a little bit of fresh air and a brisk walk helps me process the endless demands of daily life that come with being a working mum. Getting outside clears my mind, boosts my mood, and reminds me I’m caring for both my wellbeing and setting a healthy example for my little one—helping us both stay resilient through winter.
Nourishing from the Inside Out
I’ve realised over the years that what I put on my plate during winter makes a world of difference—not just to my body, but to my mood and energy, especially as a working mum managing both my job and caring for my son. While I absolutely love comfort foods (and firmly believe in enjoying them—it’s all about balance!), I also know that keeping up a balanced diet is crucial for my immune system and helps protect against those never-ending illnesses that seem to circulate in the colder months. Eating well has become a central part of my self-care: it gives me the stamina I need to cope with SAD, manage busy days at work, and stay healthy.
Taking care of myself isn’t just about what’s on my plate. I also make sure to support my health with daily vitamins. Every morning, I take the Bi Synergy Immune Booster supplement, which is packed with antiviral botanicals, zinc, and vitamin C to give my immune system an extra layer of protection, especially during winter. I also swear by the Bi Synergy Skin and Hair supplement, which helps me feel good about myself by supporting my skin and hair health. To make sure I don’t forget, I keep both supplements right by my bed—having them within reach makes it part of my routine and ensures I start my day on the right foot.
Seasonal Eating
For me, building meals around root vegetables like sweet potatoes, which are grounding and nutrient-dense, has helped keep my energy more stable when everything else feels a bit chaotic. I make sure to sneak in leafy greens wherever I can, whether it’s tossing them into a quick omelette before work or whizzing them into a smoothie I can share with my son on busy mornings. When the days are long and cold, I lean into warming, hearty soups and stews. It’s a perfect way not only to feed my body nourishing foods, but also to bring everyone together for a comforting family meal. Something that helps my mood as much as it helps my immune system. These gentle, recharging meals really make a difference in helping me cope with SAD, combat those endless winter colds, and keep my energy up.
I never forget the power of warm drinks. There’s just something incredibly calming about wrapping my hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a soothing herbal tea at the end of a hectic day. It forces me to pause, breathe, and be completely in the present moment, which is so important when I’m juggling work and family life. I’ve started swapping my afternoon coffee for a herbal blend instead. It’s a small act of self-care that helps me manage my stress levels and ensures I’m not wired when it’s time to wind down and get the rest I need. Making this simple change has truly supported my journey to better sleep, stronger immunity and a healthier me.
The Art of Evening Relaxation
As evening falls, I try to consciously shift my focus from ticking off work and home to-dos to actually winding down. These cold-weather months are when I need comfort and restoration the most, so I make it a priority to create a little sanctuary at home—one just for me, even if it’s only for a short while after my son goes to bed. For me, this is when winter self-care really comes to life. I turn those everyday evenings into a chance for genuine relaxation, helping me manage my SAD symptoms, recharge after a demanding day at work, and give myself the care I need to avoid burning out. It makes a world of difference, not just for my own wellbeing but for how I show up for my boy the next day.
Creating a Cosy Sanctuary
Setting the mood in the evening for winter self-care is all about creating an atmosphere that helps me switch off from the busyness of work and home life. I’ll dim the lights, light a few candles (sometimes my son likes to help), or switch on a favourite soft lamp to fill the room with a gentle, calming glow. Scent is something I’ve found really powerful for signaling to my stressed-out, always-on mum brain that it’s time to unwind. I’ll use a few drops of essential oils or a comforting room fragrance—lavender is my go-to—to help my nervous system downshift. It’s a simple ritual, but it really helps me and remind myself that I deserve this moment of peace, so I can recharge.
For me, a hot bath is the ultimate winter ritual—a pocket of time I carve out just for myself after a long day of balancing work, home, and motherhood. Adding in bath salts rich in magnesium has become my go-to for soothing tired, achy muscles and genuinely melting away the tension that builds up when I’m running on empty. I’ve learned that making this simple luxury a regular part of my evening isn’t just about feeling pampered—it’s about creating a clear boundary between my busy daytime responsibilities and the quiet, restorative downtime my mind and body desperately need. While I soak, I’ll sometimes treat myself to a hydrating face mask to combat the drying effects of central heating and winter air. Taking this time to really take care of my body—physically and emotionally—reminds me that nurturing myself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.
Wrap Yourself in Comfort
Once I step out of the bath, my priority is to stay warm and indulge in a moment of comfort—something that feels extra important as a working mum who’s juggled the demands of the day and still wants to be present for my son. This is when I reach for my favourite loungewear, especially my super-soft Dressing Gown from Very. Whether it’s fluffy fleece or a light cotton, wrapping myself in a cosy robe after my evening routine feels like giving myself a well-deserved hug. It adds a much-needed layer of luxury and warmth to my quiet time, helping me relax on the sofa and properly decompress. I snuggle up on the sofa with a camomile tea and a good book and that’s my happy space.
These comfort touches work in conjunction with the warmth of my home. Each year, I’ll look into boiler maintenance to make sure my system is still working at full capacity, check there are no new drafty spots that might let in cold air, and invest in a couple of new blankets, which all ensure that me and my family stay nice and toasty all winter long. Between the heating, dressing down, and blankets, I don’t mind how cold the weather gets outside.
Cultivating Mental Wellbeing into your Winter Self-Care
As someone who really feels the winter blues each year, I know how much these grey skies can wear down your emotional resilience—especially when you’re trying to juggle work, parenting, and everything else at once. Personally, looking after my mind isn’t just an extra—it’s a key part of my seasonal self-care. If I don’t make space to nurture my emotional health in the winter, my motivation and energy plummet, I risk burning out at work, and I just don’t have much left in the tank for my son or myself. I’ve realised that my mental wellbeing needs just as much tending as my physical health during this season, so I treat it like a non-negotiable—something that allows me to be present, resilient, and well for the people who count on me the most.
Mindfulness and Reflection
Winter naturally invites me to slow down and turn inward—a real blessing when my calendar isn’t jam-packed with social plans like during the hectic summer. As a busy working mum, I use this quieter time to really check in with myself. I’ve found that making space for reflective practice—even if it’s five minutes after my son’s bedtime—helps me process everything, from work stress to parenting worries. Journaling has been a good idea for me to set intentions for the next day and gently unravel the thoughts swirling in my head. I keep it simple: sometimes I’ll just jot down three things I’m grateful for or a small win from the day. This small act fosters a more positive outlook, helping me remember what’s going well, even on tough days. It’s a way to remind myself that I’m doing my best—which matters.
Personally, I’ve found that getting stuck scrolling on my phone in the evenings—easy as it is after a long day—usually leaves me feeling more anxious and disrupts my sleep schedule (not to mention, it does nothing for my SAD symptoms). Instead, I carve out time for a good book. Curling up with a story, away from screens and blue light, lets my mind unwind in ways nothing else does. It’s such a perfect way to relax after work, recharge my mental batteries, and get into a calmer headspace so I’m not lying awake worrying about deadlines or the next day’s to-dos.
Sleep: The Foundation of Winter Self-Care
I can’t talk about my own winter self-care tips without mentioning sleep. Truly, it’s become the absolute foundation of my wellbeing as a busy working mum. The winter season naturally makes me crave more rest, and instead of fighting it, I’ve learned to really listen to my body. When I notice myself feeling tired earlier than usual, I try to see it as a helpful sign that I need to adjust my sleep schedule and give myself permission to wind down sooner. Prioritising sleep means I’m better able to cope at work, avoid getting run down or burned out, and—most importantly—wake up with enough energy and resilience to be present and healthy for my son, even on the toughest days.
For me, quality sleep is absolutely non-negotiable—it’s how I recharge so I can face my workday, show up for my son with patience, and keep those winter bugs (and burnout) at bay. I try my best to switch off all screens for at least an hour before bed, even when the to-do list is calling. That little window of calm—paired with a warm bath, my cosy dressing gown, and a gentle, regular routine—makes it so much easier to drift off.
Winter Self-Care Conclusion: Renewal and Restoration
For me, winter self-care isn’t about fancy spa days or overhauling my entire life. It’s about weaving in simple, steady rituals that truly support my needs during the colder months—the things that keep me going when SAD, work, and parenting all feel like too much. By making small changes—like finding a moment to step outside for a brisk walk, using my sunrise alarm to lift my mornings, or wrapping up in my comfiest dressing gown after a long day—I’m able to protect my wellbeing. These small acts help me cope better at work, stay healthier and avoid burnout, and, most importantly, stay present and happy for my son.
By embracing this slower pace and prioritising genuine rest, I can build up the strength, resilience, and balance needed to avoid illness and burnout. Most importantly I can be fully present and healthy for my son. If, like me, you’re looking to upgrade your sleep routine or discover comfort essentials that make a real difference through the winter, I can honestly say Very’s range of wellness products has been a huge support on my journey. This season, let’s be gentle with ourselves. Embrace winter self-care, the slower pace, surround yourself with little moments of care, and remember that prioritising our own wellbeing allows us to show up as the healthiest, most present mums we can be for our kids—and for ourselves.
