At The Prevention Center, we spend our days thinking about heart and brain health — but this time of year also reminds us how much the “small stuff” nourishes us too. December isn’t just about closing out another year; it’s about the rituals, comforts, and tiny sparks of joy that keep us grounded. So we asked our team to share a few of their “favorite things” this season — simple pleasures that support physical wellness, mental calm and a sense of connection.
Here’s what’s bringing us joy right now:
For some of us, movement is the anchor of winter wellbeing. Fun and upbeat holiday Peloton rides and the “30 Days of Yoga with Adriene” are helping us stay active even when the days are short. Others are leaning into daily meditation and gentle yoga, as five quiet minutes can go a surprisingly long way. And for those braving the cold, the Lululemon Cross-Chill Performance Jacket has become an office obsession for early-morning, frost-glittered runs. Grounding tools also made the list, with one team member swearing by her grounding bedsheet for inflammation and calming anxiety.
Cozy comforts also made the list. Picture this: the room lit only by a Christmas tree, a warm kitten nestled on your lap and a cup of cocoa or loose-leaf herbal tea. That moment of stillness? Pure magic. (And medicine!) Big, fluffy winter coats are having their moment too, along with fleece-lined leggings and silky thermal base layers that make even the chilliest errands feel manageable. Pair that warmth with a slice of homemade gluten-free bread fresh from the oven, or GF treat from a local bakery, and winter suddenly feels downright inviting.
If you want to try your hand at GF breadmaking, we suggest trying the King Arthur Flour recipe. It is truly as yummy and easy as it claims to be!
And speaking of coffee — one of our team members swears by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to the morning cup. It’s festive, energizing, and seasonally delightful.
Other favorites this season are all about slowing down: snowy evening walks to admire Christmas lights; reading by the fire (recent favorites include Wreck by Catherine Newman and Heart The Lover by Lily King); or binging an Audible psychological thriller like The Silent Patient while wrapping gifts. Even simple foods are bringing comfort — especially roasted butternut squash sprinkled with sea salt or protein-packed cottage cheese waffles enjoyed on a slow Saturday morning (see this month’s recipe).
Finally, some of our team members are channeling creativity, leaning into their “crafty” side to make small homemade gifts. It turns out wellness isn’t only about exercise and nutrition; it’s also about expression, connection and doing something with your hands.
As we head into the heart of winter, we hope these little joys inspire you to create your own list of “favorite things.” May your December be full of warmth, movement, moments of stillness and whatever leaves your heart feeling a little lighter. (And if you physically need some “light” on dreary winter mornings, try a “Happy Light” when all else fails!)