There are over 440k posts about #winterarc on TikTok alone. This trend that’s taken over social media in the past few weeks is all about refocusing on habits and routines that are good for your wellness and self-improvement. I love the idea of not waiting until January 1st to commit to habits that lead you to attaining your goals, so on the one hand I’m a fan of the winter arc movement. But, I’m also a little weary about self-improvement trends.
Whenever something has virality like “winter arc” it comes with this pressure to follow very specific instructions to reach very specific ideals. I do believe that the intentions behind many wellness trends are pure, but the impact often deviates from that. What gets lost is that we’re all on different journeys, which means our needs are not one-size-fits-all.
When I stumble upon a trend like this I always tell myself “take what you need, leave the rest.” So if you too have been bombarded with winter arc how-to content, give yourself permission to take what feels relevant to you and let go of what doesn’t. I encourage you to resist the urge to follow a certain prescription for self-improvement. Wherever you are on your journey is exactly where you need to be.
I’ve always viewed winter as a perfect time for introspection. The days feel shorter due to less hours of sunlight and the temperature turns more frigid as the season progresses, making you want to cozy up at home. Personally, this is not the time of the year when I’m at peak performance. But it is a time when I’m most still and reflective. And there’s value in that.
If you’re in the throes of heartbreak, joining in on the winter arc trend might not feel authentic to you at this time. That’s perfectly okay! Give winter arc your own meaning and use this as a season to refocus on going within. Reflect on what you learned from your last relationship and how your mending journey has been so far. Get clear on what you want for your future. Let yourself feel, rest, and recharge. Let winter arc be whatever you choose to make it.
With love,
Kat