Hey bestie,
You know that feeling when you’re scrolling Pinterest and see those perfectly curated winter aesthetic posts?
The cozy coffee shops. The snowy walks. The candlelit evenings. The chunky knit sweaters. The hot chocolate in aesthetic mugs. That girl living her best winter life.
And then you look at your actual winter… which mostly consists of hibernating under blankets, scrolling TikTok, and wondering why you’re not living like those Pinterest boards.
Bestie, it’s time to change that.
Winter doesn’t have to be the season where your dream life goes into hibernation. It can actually be the most aesthetic, cozy, intentional season of your entire year.
I’m sharing 11 that girl winter activities that’ll help you romanticize your life, glow up through the cold months, and actually live like your Pinterest boards.
These aren’t just “cute ideas you’ll never do.” These are real, doable activities that’ll make this winter your favorite season yet.
✨ But first, grab my free Pinterest to Dream Life Vision Map – it’s the exact tool I use to turn those winter aesthetic pins into actual goals and action steps. Let’s make your Pinterest boards work for you, not against you.
Let’s make this the winter you actually remember. ❄️
1. Early Morning Winter Walks (That Girl Energy Activated)
There’s something magical about being awake when the world is still quiet and frosty.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: First of all, early morning winter walks are THE aesthetic activity. The crisp air, the quiet streets, maybe some snow, the sunrise… it’s literally Pinterest come to life. Moreover, you’ll feel accomplished before most people even wake up.
How to Make It Happen:
- Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier than usual
- Layer up in your coziest athletic wear
- Additionally, bring your Stanley cup with hot coffee or matcha
- Put on a motivational podcast or worship music
- Finally, walk for 15-30 minutes around your neighborhood
The Glow Up Factor: This isn’t just about the aesthetic (though the aesthetic is chef’s kiss). In fact, morning movement clears your mind, boosts your mood, and sets the tone for an intentional day. As a result, you’ll come back feeling like you already won the morning.
Budget-Friendly Tip: You don’t need fancy winter gear. Instead, layer what you have: leggings, sweatpants over them, hoodie, jacket, and you’re good.
Pinterest Inspo: Search “winter morning walk aesthetic” and feel inspired by what’s possible.
2. Cozy Reading Nook Sundays
Transform one corner of your space into the ultimate winter reading sanctuary.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: Nothing says intentional living like dedicating time to reading, learning, and growing. Furthermore, the aesthetic is unmatched.
Creating Your Perfect Reading Space
How to Create Your Nook:
- First, find a corner with natural light (or good lamp lighting)
- Next, add a cozy chair or pile of pillows
- Then, keep a soft blanket within reach
- Additionally, place a small side table for your hot beverage
- Also, add a candle for ambiance (woodsy or vanilla scents)
- Finally, stack books you’ve been wanting to read
The Benefits Beyond Aesthetics
The Glow Up Factor: Reading expands your mind, reduces stress, and gives you that main character energy. Moreover, whether you’re reading personal development, fiction, or faith-based books, you’re investing in yourself.
What to Read:
- Personal development books for goal setting
- Romance novels for escapism and joy
- Faith-based books for spiritual growth
- Business books for career advancement
Make It a Ritual: Every Sunday afternoon, settle into your nook for at least an hour. Consequently, phone on silent. Just you, your book, and your cozy vibes.
3. Winter Baking Sundays (Aesthetic Kitchen Moments)
Channel your inner Ina Garten and make your kitchen the coziest place in your home.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: There’s something so grounding about baking from scratch in winter. The warm oven, the delicious smells, the satisfaction of creating something with your hands.
What to Bake:
- Beginner: Chocolate chip cookies or brownies
- Intermediate: Banana bread or cinnamon rolls
- Advanced: Homemade sourdough or pie from scratch
- Aesthetic: Anything in a cast iron skillet
The Glow Up Factor: Baking is meditative, creative, and productive all at once. Plus, you get to enjoy (or share) what you make. It’s self-care that results in warm cookies.
Budget-Friendly: Baking is actually cheaper than buying fancy treats. A batch of cookies costs $5-8 and makes dozens.
Make It Pinterest-Worthy:
- Use pretty bowls and utensils
- Light candles while you bake
- Play cozy music or a winter playlist
- Take photos of the process
- Serve on aesthetic plates
4. Ice Skating or Winter Sports Adventures
Get outside and actually DO something instead of just surviving winter indoors.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: That girl isn’t afraid of the cold. She embraces it. She makes winter an adventure, not something to endure.
Winter Activities to Try:
- Ice skating at a local rink or outdoor pond
- Sledding if you have hills and snow
- Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing for nature lovers
- Winter hiking with the right gear
- Outdoor yoga (yes, in winter – it’s a thing!)
The Glow Up Factor: Winter activities get you moving, boost your mood, and create actual memories. These are the moments you’ll look back on and think “that was such a good winter.”
Budget-Friendly: Many cities have free or cheap outdoor rinks. Sledding just requires a hill and a sled (or cardboard!). Winter hiking is completely free.
Safety First: Layer properly, stay hydrated, and go with friends when trying new activities.
5. Cozy Movie Marathon Nights (Intentional Rest)
Not every winter activity needs to be productive. Sometimes that girl energy means knowing when to rest.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: Rest is productive. Creating a cozy, intentional movie night is self-care that actually fills your cup.
How to Make It Special:
- Choose a theme (Hallmark movies, classic films, comfort watches)
- Make it an event with special snacks
- Create the coziest setup: blankets, pillows, candles, dim lights
- Hot chocolate or warm apple cider
- Phone on Do Not Disturb
Movie Marathon Ideas:
- Hallmark Christmas movies (yes, they’re cheesy and perfect)
- Your favorite comfort series (Gilmore Girls, anyone?)
- Classic winter films (The Holiday, Love Actually)
- Personal development documentaries
The Glow Up Factor: Intentional rest prevents burnout and actually makes you more productive. You’re not just “wasting time” – you’re recharging so you can show up better tomorrow.
Make It Social: Invite friends over for a cozy movie night. Community + comfort = perfect winter evening.
6. Winter Journaling Practice (Mindset Glow Up)
Use winter’s slower pace to get clear on your life, goals, and dreams.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: That girl doesn’t just live reactively. She reflects, plans, and intentionally creates her life. Winter is perfect for this inner work.
What to Journal About:
- Morning pages: Stream of consciousness to clear your mind
- Gratitude: 3 things you’re grateful for daily
- Goal setting: What do you want to achieve this winter?
- Reflection: What patterns do you notice in your life?
- Vision: Who are you becoming? What life are you building?
The Glow Up Factor: Journaling creates self-awareness, which is the foundation of all transformation. You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge.
Winter Journal Prompts:
- “What do I want to feel more of this winter?”
- “What habits aren’t serving me anymore?”
- “Who do I want to become by spring?”
- “What am I avoiding that I need to address?”
Make It Cozy: Journal by candlelight with tea or coffee. Use a pretty journal that makes you excited to write.
7. DIY Spa Nights at Home (Self-Care Sundays)
Create the ultimate at-home spa experience without the expensive price tag.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: Self-care isn’t selfish. Taking care of your body and skin is honoring the temple God gave you. Plus, the aesthetic is unmatched.
Your At-Home Spa Night:
- Start: Light candles, play spa music or lo-fi beats
- Face mask: Try a hydrating or clay mask
- Hair treatment: Deep conditioning mask or hair oil
- Body care: Exfoliate and moisturize
- Nails: DIY manicure and pedicure
- Bath: If you have a tub, add epsom salts or bath bomb
- End: Cozy robe, fuzzy socks, skin glowing
The Glow Up Factor: When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you show up better. Self-care isn’t vanity – it’s maintenance.
Budget-Friendly:
- Face masks: $1-5 at drugstore
- Hair masks: Coconut oil from your kitchen
- Body scrub: Sugar + olive oil = DIY scrub
- Ambiance: Candles from dollar store work perfectly
Make It a Ritual: Every Sunday night or bi-weekly, commit to your spa night. Put it in your calendar like an important meeting (because it is).
8. Winter Fitness Glow Up (Hot Girl Winter Vibes)
Don’t let winter be your excuse to abandon your wellness goals.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: That girl shows up for herself even when it’s cold and dark. She finds ways to move her body because she knows how good it makes her feel.
Winter Workout Ideas:
- At-home YouTube workouts: Yoga with Adriene, pilates, dance cardio
- Gym membership: If budget allows, winter gym vibes hit different
- Mall walking: Free, climate-controlled, and surprisingly good cardio
- Dance parties: Put on your favorite playlist and move
- Workout apps: Nike Training Club, Peloton app, Apple Fitness+
The Glow Up Factor: Movement is medicine. It boosts your mood, improves your health, and makes you feel capable and strong. Winter depression? Movement helps that too.
Winter Workout Aesthetic:
- Cute matching sets (Amazon has affordable options)
- Cozy pre-workout outfit (hoodie and leggings)
- Post-workout smoothie in pretty glass
- Stretching in cozy socks
Consistency Over Perfection: 20 minutes of movement is better than zero. Show up even when you don’t feel like it. Future you will thank you.
9. Coffee Shop Work Sessions (Productive + Aesthetic)
Take your laptop, planner, or journal to a cozy coffee shop and get things done.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: That girl makes her environment work for her. Sometimes the best productivity happens outside your home.
What to Work On:
- Blog posts or content creation
- Goal planning and vision boarding
- Learning new skills (online courses)
- Side hustle work
- Reading and studying
- Job applications or resume updates
The Glow Up Factor: Changing your environment sparks creativity and motivation. Plus, you’re creating the main character moments you see on Pinterest.
Coffee Shop Etiquette:
- Order something (support small businesses!)
- Don’t overstay if it’s busy
- Use headphones for videos/calls
- Tip well
Budget-Friendly: Order something small and make it last. Many coffee shops are cool with you staying for hours if you’re respectful.
Make It a Weekly Date: Every Wednesday (or whatever works), spend 2-3 hours at a coffee shop being productive. It breaks up your week and gives you something to look forward to.
10. Winter Wardrobe Glow Up (Capsule Style)
Curate a winter wardrobe that makes you feel like that girl every single day.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: How you dress affects how you feel. When you feel put together, you show up differently in your life.
Winter Capsule Essentials:
- Basics: Neutral sweaters, long-sleeve tees, quality leggings
- Layering: Blazers, cardigans, cozy flannels
- Outerwear: One great coat in neutral color
- Bottoms: Jeans that fit well, comfortable trousers
- Shoes: Boots (Chelsea or knee-high), sneakers, one dressy option
- Accessories: Scarves, beanies, simple jewelry
The Glow Up Factor: A curated wardrobe saves time, money, and decision fatigue. You’ll actually like everything you own and feel confident daily.
Budget-Friendly Strategy:
- Thrift high-quality basics
- Invest in one great piece (coat or boots)
- Sell or donate what you don’t wear
- Focus on neutral colors that mix and match
Winter Outfit Formula: Base layer + sweater/top + outerwear + boots + accessory = Effortless that girl aesthetic
11. Vision Board Creation for Spring (Planning Ahead)
Use winter’s reflective energy to get crystal clear on what you’re building toward.
Why It’s That Girl Energy: That girl doesn’t just float through life hoping things work out. Instead, she has a vision and a plan. As a matter of fact, winter is perfect for creating that vision.
How to Build Your Vision Board
Vision Board Creation Methods:
- Digital: Use Canva or Pinterest secret boards
- Physical: Poster board, magazines, printouts, glue stick
What to Include:
- Career and business goals
- Financial milestones
- Relationship and community desires
- Health and wellness goals
- Travel destinations
- Aesthetic lifestyle inspirations
- Identity affirmations
Making Your Vision Work For You
The Glow Up Factor: Vision boards aren’t just pretty pictures – they’re visual goal-setting tools that train your brain on what you’re working toward. Furthermore, they keep you focused and motivated throughout the season.
Make It Strategic: Don’t just pin random pretty things. Rather, pin images that represent specific, measurable goals. For instance, if you want to save $10K, include that number. Similarly, if you want to travel to Paris, include a photo of the Eiffel Tower.
Review Regularly: Put your vision board somewhere you’ll see it daily. In addition, update it as you achieve goals or as your vision evolves.
Making Your That Girl Winter Actually Happen
Okay bestie, you have the list. You know what to do.
However, here’s the real question: Are you actually going to DO these things, or just pin them and move on?
Because the difference between the girl living her Pinterest aesthetic and the girl just scrolling it is ACTION.
Your Winter Action Plan
Here’s how to make this winter different:
Pick 3-5 activities from this list that genuinely excite you. In other words, not all 11. Just the ones that make you think “yes, I want THAT.”
Schedule them. Put them in your calendar like real appointments. For example, “Sunday 2pm: Cozy reading nook time.” or “Wednesday 10am: Coffee shop work session.”
Start this week. Not next week. Not when you feel more motivated. Instead, choose ONE activity this week and do it before Sunday.
Make it a lifestyle, not a checklist. These aren’t one-time activities. Rather, they’re the foundation of living a life you actually love all winter long.
From Pinterest Dreams to Real Life
Your Pinterest boards have been showing you the life you want. The cozy mornings. The intentional moments. The aesthetic that girl winter.
It’s time to stop admiring it and start living it.
In fact, winter can be your glow-up season. Specifically, the season where you build habits that carry you into spring. The season where you romanticize your life instead of just surviving it.
And it starts with doing ONE thing from this list today.
✨ Ready to turn ALL your Pinterest dreams into reality? Grab my free Pinterest to Dream Life Vision Map – it’s the exact tool I use to turn aesthetic inspiration into actionable goals. Stop just pinning your dream life and start planning it.
💕 Need an instant vibe shift to get started? My Glow Up SOS: Emergency 24HR Kit ($7) includes subliminals, affirmations, and visualization to shift your identity from “stuck in winter blues” to “that girl living her best winter.” Sometimes you just need that mindset reset to take action.
This winter, you’re not hibernating. You’re glowing up. You’re romanticizing. You’re living like the girl in your Pinterest boards.
Because that girl? She’s you. She’s been waiting for you to show up and claim her.
Xo,
Chelsea Elise