Winter is indeed upon us-cold mornings, an abundance of warm and cuddly blankets, and long-passing tranquil evenings. The whole season feels like a reminder to slow down, reflect, nurture, and pamper the conscience. What better means of pampering than grabbing a notebook, pens, and doodle or journal your whole heart out?
These simple creative habits are more than enjoyable-they provide some calming relief, panacea for the soul, and an avenue toward clearer and sharper thoughts during the cold months. Let's dive in and see how doodle and journal can sweeten your winter a little.
Why Winter Seems Just Right for Creative Thinking
There is a calming sensation that comes with winter. The world outside slows down; so can we. Staying in with a warm drink and a journal can be just the ticket on those days when the air is so cold that going out is hardly an option.
A little bit of reflection, a bit of a reset, and an appreciation for small joys.
The Power of Relaxation in Doodling
You need not be an artist to doodle. In fact, every time the doodling is messier and more playful, it is better! Doodling is the art of doing whatever comes to mind with the hand with little inhibition from the mind.
How doodling helps:
- It clears thinking when you are overthinking.
- It triggers calmness to quell anxiety with the performance of soothing repetitive movements.
- It allows you to be creative without pressure or guidance.
Grab a pen and, with eyes open or closed, free your mind on the paper-lines, shapes, squiggles-it's all good!
Journals: Your Own Quiet Space for Contemplation
To have a journal is like having a private little conversation with yourself. It is a little room to sort out your thoughts, lash out some emotions, and actually focus on the things that matter to you.
Some ideas for journaling:
- Note something each day for which you are grateful.
- Think back on this past year. What did you learn? What are you proud of?
- Set small goals for yourself: Think about things you would like to accomplish over the next few months.
Mind dump: Just write, don't censor.
Journaling can bring an odd sense of peace, even if you do it for only five minutes a day..
Why not Combine Both?
Doodling and journaling complement each other. Stylized drawings or little designs in your journal provide a personal touch and lots of fun.
Ideas for mixing both:
- While you are journaling about winter, draw snowflakes or mugs of cocoa.
- Draw doodles for mood tracking or a weekly spread.
- Try drawing some images of what your ideal wintry day looks like.
- There aren't any hard rules—whatever you like on your pages: simple or elaborate.
Winter Doodle Suggestions to Get You Started
If you are feeling stuck on ideas, just a few winter-inspired doodles to get you started:
- Snowflakes
- Mittens and scarves
- Pine trees
- Hot chocolate mugs
- Ice skates
- Candles
- Snowmen
- Cozy books and blankets
This is about your enjoyment, not making the perfect doodle.
Winter Journal Prompts
Need a little push to kickstart your journaling? Choose any one of the following prompts:
- What is your ideal winter day?
- How does winter impact your mood?
- What is a cozy tradition you enjoy?
- What do you wish to leave behind in this year; what do you desire to take with you?
- What would be your way of pampering yourself better this season?
These can really get you going and help to clear your mind.
Benefits to Your Mind
Doodling and journaling do more than simply fill up your notebook. They can assist with:
- Staying in the present: Maintain concentration on the present and not on the past or the future.
- Expressing feelings: Releasing feelings in a safe, gentle way.
- Finding clarity: Sorting through muddled thoughts.
- Feeling really good: Completing an entire page or drawing provides an instant boost!
This is a simple and effective way to nurture and sustain your mental health.
It is Really Easy to Begin
With a quiet space, any notebook, and a few pens, you are good to go. You can also set the mood with maybe cozy throws, some music, or a hot drink. From there, just start—no winning or losing in any way.
This moment is yours.
Winter Gift for Yourself
The winter can be colder for those outside, but this offers an opportunity to turn inward, slow down, and do things that refill your cup. Doodling and journaling support a reconnection—with oneself and one's creativity.
So, take a moment this season. Draw. Write. Reflect. Let your notebook be your warm wintery friend—and your brain will thank you for it.
