a winter shower ritual 🕯️

it’s the new year. the holidays have passed, and now we’re in the bleak dead of winter, with the spring equinox too far beyond the horizon to see just yet.

it’s cold. dark. flu season. overall a top contender for the worst time period in the year.

we all need a little reset. a moment of peace and escape from the present. i’m here to share a recipe for a relaxing shower ritual that i’ve been doing ~twice a week to keep hold of my sanity this winter.

i call it a ritual, but it’s really just a few extra steps to make your shower more of a self care experience. it’s easy - trust me, as someone with combination ADHD, i know that something can’t be too complicated if i’m going to be doing it on a regular basis. it’s also gender neutral, as anyone can take a relaxing shower regardless of gender.

the first step is to turn off that damn overhead light. now light a candle. no, not just one. grab those jar candles you’ve been saving for a special occasion, the box of tea lights in a cabinet or drawer somewhere. i like to unplug my bathroom night light as well.

you don’t need music, but i like to put something chill on loop. (for the past few weeks, my top 2 have been angel by massive attack & drink deep by florence + the machine.) you could also opt for some sort of white noise: fire crackling, wind blowing, birds chirping, take your pick.

if you have a speaker, leave your phone in your bedroom. if not, put it on do not disturb.

now take your shower as usual. if you’ve lit enough candles, you’ll be able to see everything you need to see.

if you’re sick (like i am as i write this), consider putting the water on nice and hot, and turn off the fan. let it steam up. breathe it in.

imagine you’re in a hot spring, or next to a bonfire, or in a private roman bathhouse, whatever you choose. don’t read your shampoo bottle’s label. close your eyes, or look at your silhouette flickering in the candlelight.

can i challenge you to do something? or, to not do something? it’s the middle of winter - just for this shower, don’t shave. just relax. wash your hair, wash your body, get clean, warm up. that’s all that matters.

that’s it. see? pretty simple. but in case you need the TLDR (though i encourage you to spend the 1-2 minutes it’ll take to just read the whole thing):

• turn off the overhead light; light some candles instead

• play something relaxing, preferably looping, if you want

• let the bathroom steam up; imagine you’re somewhere else (a hot spring, a bonfire, a bath house)

• shower as usual

and remember to stay hydrated, especially if you’re taking a really hot shower. i hope everyone stays safe & warm during this dark, cold time of the year. much love <3