As we near the end of December, thriving during the dark and dreary winter months might seem impossible, but with a change in perspective and a few tricks up your sleeve, it can be a time for joy and rejuvenation.

We’re sharing a few of our favorite words of advice that have helped us embrace the winter season.

Grace Farris creates wonderful comics, shared on Cup of Jo. This one encourages you to appreciate the little things throughout the winter season, no matter how small they may seem:

Going off the ‘chaotic seasonal items’ theme, our team can’t get enough of the Roland Pine candle from Soap & Paper Factory. If you want your house to smell like a Christmas tree farm, this is the candle for you. It’s also so perfect for gifting!

Social media is filled with inspiration on how to beat the dark cold that lingers too long in the PNW. On Instagram, @foodiesnitch started a series focused on Wintering in the PNW. The account shares different activities you can do to not let the winter gloom get you down. Check out part 1, part 2, and part 3. What’s your favorite ‘wintering’ activity?

When you can’t get away from it (‘it’ being the inevitable rain) why not romanticize it like @_mpatricias does? Rain doesn’t HAVE to be sad and gloomy all the time. 

And when you need a little reminder of summer and what will eventually come, try making a winter salad! With satsuma oranges and pomegranates in season and all of these recipes at your disposal, we have no doubt you’ll find one you love.

Finally, this article from Almost the Weekend guides readers to switch their mindset about winter. The article states, “Write a list of things that are positive about winter. If you think this sounds like a cheesy, pointless activity, hear me out. Your mindset about winter is probably one of the biggest barriers you have to enjoying it. If you’re focused on the negative it can be hard to see the positive. This is certainly one of the issues I have to overcome every year, and a simple activity like this can really help. It can also help you to identify the practical things you can do to feel better about this time of year.” It’s all about perspective!

How do you embrace and enjoy winter? Share with us on Instagram and Facebook!