Surviving The Winter Scaries

We’ve all been there. The temperature plummets, and with it goes your motivation, mood, and mental clarity. If you’re struggling to find the will this week, especially with London hitting 0°, then we’ve compiled some essentials that may help you to survive the winter months.

With these, dare I say, you might even begin to enjoy them…

Let there be Light!

When you’re scrapping for motivation and London begins to feel like Glasgow, the UK’s dreariest city with record low sunshine, a SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamp is your best-kept defence. The Lumie Dash is SAD-specific, creating a glow that’s almost identical to sunlight - and on this alone, I was instantly sold. It’s also UV-free, dimmable, and portable, so it’s great for anyone travelling back and forth on that infamous Christmas commute. 

Lumie also offer sunset lamps, a product I’ve tried, tested, loved…and had stolen (the siblings were equally enamoured). If you struggle waking up for that commute, at odds with both your alarm and the darkness outside, then these “light clocks” offer a more gentle alternative. They slowly fill your room with light, as though waking you up with the sunrise, and offer 34 nature-inspired alarm tones, including the sound of morning birdsong and rainfall. And for those of you who really struggle to rise, never fear - the classic alarm sound (with its three snooze sets) is still an option.

The Ultimate Winter Warmers

If you’re wrestling more with the cold than the dark, then consider bringing 2025’s style buzzword - dopamine dressing - into your accessories wardrobe. There’s nothing sweeter than a matching set, and look no further than &Daughter for the softest of them all. Spun on a nature reserve in Loch Leven, their wool is all Responsible Standard Certified and hand-knit, meaning it's a purchase you can feel good about. Mix or match their striped cashmere hats, gloves and scarves for the perfect winter warmers - they’re certain to brighten a cold morning.

For the Athlete

We all know that exercise is the ultimate mood-booster, but hot chocolate certainly feels more tempting than the bitter outdoors once the temperature hits sub-zero. If you’re craving endorphins, then consider investing in a fleece ear warmer for those chilly 10ks. Winter runs are rewarding like no other; the air is refreshing, and it pushes you to go that bit faster. Whilst your muscles warm quickly, your ears take the hit, and a fleece ear warmer certainly makes those laps more bearable. Lululemon’s is sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and even has a ponytail opening - I’d certainly recommend!

Replenish Tired Skin

 As the cold creeps in, your skin starts a cry for help. The dry air pulls its moisture, leaving it cracked, sore, and in need of a brighten. If you find your hands to be the victim, test L’Occitane’s Shea Intensive Hand Balm, which has garnered rave reviews and a cult following for its thick, non-greasy, and lasting formula. Or, show your body some love with Glossier’s Daily Perfecting Lotion, a lightweight yet effective moisturiser that also leaves a subtle glow. For your face, The Body Shop’s Vitamin E Moisture Day Cream is a staple, with its 48-hour hydration offering even the busiest of readers a chance to nourish their skin. One thing’s for sure - after these, your skin will thank you.

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