How to Stay Sunny When the Sun’s Not Shining
Kia ora team,
If you’re the kind of person who lives for winter fashion — the oversized coats, chunky knits, and the triumphant return of boots from the back of the wardrobe — then this might just be your season. Layering is in, scarves are out, and there’s something undeniably satisfying about hearing the rain hit the roof while you’re wrapped in bed.
But let’s be real — for most of us, this time of year can feel a little... heavy. The days are shorter, the skies are moodier, and motivation can start to feel like a summer memory. And there’s a reason for that. With fewer daylight hours, our internal clocks (aka circadian rhythms) can get thrown off. Add to that a drop in vitamin D, a rise in grey days, and a general resistance to leaving the comfort of your covers, and it’s no wonder our mood can take a hit.
The good news? You’re not alone. And even better — there are ways to flip the script.
Step One: Touch Grass (with woollen gloves on)…
Getting outside might not feel appealing when the wind is howling and the rain is horizontal (Wellington, we see you), but it’s essential. A quick walk around the block, an ocean-side jog, or even just standing on your deck for a few minutes of fresh air can help lift the fog. Light exposure boosts your mood, movement boosts your energy, and yes — even walking the dog counts. It doesn’t have to be heroic. It just has to be something.
Step Two: Romanticise The Season…
There’s an art to enjoying winter, and it often starts with mindset. The cold isn’t going anywhere — so why not lean into it? Treat yourself to a duvet day with a warm drink and your to-do list on the couch. Pull out your cosiest knit, light a candle, and queue up your ultimate comfort movie. Notice the way the rain sounds on the roof as you fall asleep, or how satisfying it is to sip something hot while wrapped in a blanket burrito. These are small joys, yes — but they add up. When you start actively seeking out what’s beautiful about the colder months, it gets a little easier to love them.
Step Three: Make It Social, Make It Fun…
Winter can be isolating if we let it — which is why it’s the best time to reach out, make plans, and stay connected. Head to The Ballroom for a round of pool, knock over a few pins at Lanes, or book a casual game of basketball at ASB. And if leaving the house isn’t appealing, host a games night. Cards, board games, snacks, and good company — it’s one of the simplest ways to warm up a cold night. Getting together doesn’t need to be extravagant. It just needs to happen.
We can’t control the season, but we can control how we show up in it — and there’s something really comforting about that.
So whether you’re leaning into the cozy or dragging your feet through the gloom, remember to be kind to yourself. Find the little joys, move when you can, and stay connected.
See you next week (and maybe at the bowling alley).