Radical Self-Care This Winter
- Alison Pepper
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
There is something really special about a first snow. The world truly transforms before our eyes but most especially the blanket of white snow slows us down. If you don't want to slip on ice or you are watching kids play you cannot just go at your normal pace on a snow day.
In today’s busy modern world it is hard to find time to slow down and do something truly for yourself. The idea behind radical self-care is just that – loving and caring for yourself is indeed a radical act. We are always asked to show up, be on, and do things for others all the time. Therefore, it is equally important to balance the demands of work-life, family-life, and perhaps a social or spiritual life, to also prioritize you!
Winter is indeed a wonderful time to slow down and go inward. The snow, the cold, and the short dark days makes it easier for us to do just that.
“Most people are so occupied by the external world that they don’t realize that there is a very rich world within themselves. In this stage, we relax, let go, and learn to appreciate that we have an internal universe.”
Everything on the list below is a form of radical self-care, from what we love to eat to going to therapy. Remember, there is not a right way nor a one-way approach for self-care – that’s what also makes it a radical act! But if you need some inspiration or need a fresh start for your self-care practice, here are some helpful ideas.
1) Mindfulness Meditation For Self-Care: Why Do A Daily Meditation Practice And Where To Start
Mindfulness meditation has been found to help reduce stress. Buddhist meditations like loving kindness have been found to increase empathy, boost resilience and grow a sense of over all-purpose. More and more people are talking about meditation and trying meditation.
So where do you start? For some, it is an app like the Insight Timer, Buddhify or headspace. For others, it might be a great book like Thoughts Without a Thinker by Mark Epstein or When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron. Finding a place to meditate with others in person can always be a great way to get started and find some in person support. Try googling meditation centers or groups near you and see if a local yoga studio might offer weekly meditation classes. Like with anything new, starting slowly with an open mind can be very helpful.
Ready for a retreat? For those of us with a regular meditation practice a short retreat in the city or a longer retreat out of the city at a retreat center are options. Be brave, even if you have never been or think you have little experience consider leaping in!
I'll be co-leading a Dance & Mudra Retreat weekend this March 6-8 2026 at the CT Guest House.
2) Healthy Food For Self-Care: Support Your Mind And Mood
More and more, modern medicine is recognizing the influence of diet on good health. This research study shows that eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish may result in larger total brain volumes and thereby better long-term brain health. Read more about this and other brain-focused studies here in Neurology Times. What you eat greatly impacts your energy level and how you feel.
At a time of year when hot coco and cookies seem to be everywhere we can of course make choices to enjoy, indulge, and also take care of our bodies.
Did you know that magnesium-rich foods are super great for brain health and brain functioning? They are and some of them might even already be your favorite foods (like avocados :)). Try some out! You don’t need to make major changes to your diet all at once maybe just start by switching up your usual afternoon snack to almonds and a piece of dark chocolate.
3) Therapy For Self-Care : Start Again or For the First Time
Therapy can be a powerful tool for support and self-discovery. Only you will know when the right time for therapy is and what you hope to gain from it. Finding a therapist and getting started can feel like an overwhelming and daunting task. But you can always start with a phone call, trying calling a therapist, and simply asking her about how she works. Spend some time looking at therapist websites and reading about where he is located and how he practices.
Most people search for therapists on Psychology Today. Other great resources are: Zencare & My Wellbeing. Like any decision going to therapy is not a binding commitment. Some people need and want to stay in therapy for years getting support, healing past traumas, and cultivating insight while others might need and want to come for a short period of time during a transition or loss in their life. There is no one way or right way to engage in therapy and it’s important to stay open and curious about the process and what might work best for you.
In my experience when I go to therapy and the work I do there is completely person but also very much informed by the therapist that I choose to work with. If you are looking to start therapy or want to connect someone to mental health resources please consider getting in touch with me here.
Written by Alison Pepper, LCSW Alison Pepper is a Therapist and Meditation Instructor working with adults dealing with mental health and life struggles in a trauma information practice in New York City.
“I believe all people have the tools to heal ourselves; grow, learn, and reach our full potential. No matter what your age or life circumstances therapy is a safe space to do that work.”
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