If you’re from North Dakota like me, you know that once December hits, life gets busy—and the weather doesn’t exactly help. Between dark mornings, icy roads, year-end work crunches, and the holiday hustle, it’s easy to feel like we’re running on fumes.
I’ve felt it lately. The to-do lists keep growing, and it can feel like there’s barely a moment to breathe between shoveling the driveway, getting the kids out the door in snow gear, and wrapping up a million little things before the end of the year.
So here’s your friendly reminder—one I’m telling myself too—to slow down, breathe, and take care of you. Even in the middle of the chaos (and the snowstorms).
1. Breathe First, React Second
When I feel overwhelmed, I’ve started pausing to take some deep intentional breaths before answering that email, jumping into the next task, or reacting to whatever’s next. It sounds small, but it’s helped me feel more grounded and less like I’m running on autopilot. I’ve found using the Breathe app on my watch or the Relax session on my Calm app helpful as it paces you through the breaths.
2. Get Outside – (Even If It’s Just to the Mailbox)
I know it’s not always easy when the wind hurts your face, but a few minutes of fresh air and movement can do wonders for stress. Bundle up and take a quick walk—your brain will thank you for it. Utilizing the chance to move your body—even briefly—can help melt away some of that seasonal stress.
3. Let’s Ditch the Guilt Around Rest
We tend to think rest has to be earned, but winter is a perfect time to build in slower moments. A fuzzy blanket, a good book or show, and guilt-free rest can be powerful. To me sometimes self-care looks like a green smoothie and stretching, and sometimes it looks like watching a holiday movie with my kids and doing nothing productive. Both are valid.
4. Write It Down, Let It Go
My brain can’t hold everything—and it shouldn’t have to. I’ve been keeping a simple notepad or digital list nearby so I can brain-dump everything without trying to mentally keep track. Even a 2-minute “stress scribble” helps me feel more in control.
5. Keep the “Good-for-You” Things Going
I get it—when it’s dark by 5 p.m., it’s tempting to skip workouts, eat comfort food, and park myself on the couch. And that’s okay in moderation. But I also know that staying active (even in small ways), eating well, and staying connected help keep my mood and energy steady.
7. Reach Out, Don’t Freeze In
We all go through tough seasons. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone—Whether it’s with a friend, a coworker, a partner, or a therapist—saying “I’m feeling stretched thin” out loud takes so much of the power away from stress. You don’t have to carry it alone. I’ve had to remind myself (and others) that asking for help doesn’t make us weak—it makes us wise. Whether it’s at work, at home, or with our health, we all need support sometimes.
Many workplaces offer resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide free counseling or mental health support.
Here are also a few free and trusted resources anyone can use:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime for confidential support.
- Mental Health America – Tools and tips at www.mhanational.org
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Offers education and help lines: www.nami.org
The bottom line? Take care of yourself. Your well-being matters—and you don’t have to “power through” everything alone. Let’s give ourselves a little grace this winter. After all, we’re North Dakotans—we can handle the cold, but we don’t have to carry the weight of the season without support.
Stay warm. Stay grounded. You’ve got this.
