This time of year always sneaks up on me; the sun sets earlier, the air grows colder, and the temptation to curl up and stay still gets stronger by the day. But over the past couple of years, I’ve learned that how I move through this season really impacts how I feel, both physically and mentally. How I feel physically and mentally matters more now than ever; you know what I mean?
Staying active in the fall and winter doesn’t have to mean following a strict workout routine. For me, it’s about finding small, doable ways to keep my body moving; ways that fit into real life, at home, and without pressure.
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Turning My Home Into a Mini Walking Loop
Working from home can make it easy to stay glued to my desk, so I’ve started making movement part of my day, quite literally. Around lunchtime, I’ll take a few laps through the first floor of our house.
It sounds almost silly, but it adds up! I’ll put on my pink headphones and turn on a podcast, audiobook, or some music and make a few circuits between the kitchen, living room, entryway, and through my studio. Those 10–15 minutes reset my focus and get my steps up, and it’s amazing how much better I feel afterward. It’s an easy way to get in one to two thousand steps, depending on how long I walk.
My Walking Pad Routine
One of the best purchases I’ve made for my home office is a walking pad. On busy workdays, I’ll set it up under my desk for a slow stroll while answering emails or editing photos. Some days I’ll use it while watching a show in the evening instead of sitting on the couch or after B heads off to work, I’ll crank some music and get in 20 or 30 minutes.
It’s become such a gentle, sustainable way to move more, no gym membership, no commute, no excuses. Just steady movement that keeps my energy up, especially on dark, chilly days.
Evening Projects That Keep Me Moving
As the days get shorter, I find myself wanting to stay busy indoors, and for me, that often means projects. This time of year, I’m gearing up to tackle some home updates: little things like reorganizing my reselling room, decluttering storage spaces, or working on those small decorating projects I put off all summer.
These kinds of projects keep me physically active without it feeling like a “workout.” I’ll turn on a favorite playlist or podcast, make a cup of tea, and just putter around the house. It’s a productive movement, and it makes our home feel more peaceful, too.
The photo above is an AI generated image based on my plans for our dining room to a more casual “breakfast room and sitting room”. A project I’m getting ready to start.
Small Habits That Add Up
Beyond intentional exercise, I’ve been trying to move more in small ways throughout the day:
- Standing while folding laundry or marching in place while prepping dinner.
- Taking the stairs a few extra times when switching loads of laundry or doing housework.
- Stretching or using weights during TV shows or in between tasks.
- Doing a few squats or calf raises while waiting for the kettle to boil.
It’s not glamorous, but it’s real, and it’s what keeps me from feeling sluggish as winter approaches.
Moving for My Mind, Not Just My Body
I’ve learned that staying active is less about perfect fitness for me; it’s about energy, focus, and mood. When I move regularly, even just a little, I sleep better, think more clearly, and feel more grounded.
There’s something about gentle movement, especially indoors during the darker months, that reminds me I’m still connected to the rhythm of the seasons. Just because we’re spending more time inside doesn’t mean we have to go still.
Closing Thought
If you’ve been struggling to stay active as the days grow shorter, start small. Do a few laps through your home, work on a simple project, or march in place while you watch your favorite show. It doesn’t have to be perfect even a few extra minutes a day will make a difference.
Movement, in any form, is a gift. And in this season, I’m learning to embrace it in all its gentle, imperfect ways. What are some ways you ease more movement into your day as winter approaches?
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