by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker
Winter in Wisconsin asks a lot of us. The cold settles into our bones, daylight feels scarce, and the weight of the world can feel heavier this time of year. A winter warm-up isn’t just about bundling up—it’s about finding small, steady ways to warm our bodies, hearts, and minds. This month’s Touch Points offers simple ideas to bring comfort, connection, and light—right where you are.
In these long winter days, our hearts reach beyond our own doorsteps. We hold our neighbors in Minnesota in our thoughts and prayers, along with all who are feeling the weight of recent events. May there be refuah shleimah (healing), shalom (peace), and a return to safety and wholeness for our communities. May we find warmth in one another and light even in the darkest days.
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” (Albert Camus)
SPARK WARMTH WITH THESE SUGGESTIONS:
1. Warming the Heart: Winter can feel isolating, but emotional warmth can brighten even the coldest days. Connecting with others and nurturing your heart helps build resilience and joy. I chose this as my number one because staying connected with friends and family has been deeply sustaining for me. Recently, I shared brunch with my beautiful mother and aunt—time I truly treasure. Their love and our connection mean everything to me, filling my heart with light and reminding me how powerful simple moments together can be. Use the ideas and activities below to increase the warmth in your heart and soul.
- Reach out: Make a coffee or lunch date with someone you love. Send a handwritten note, make a phone call, or share a favorite memory with someone. Connecting with others, even briefly, reminds us we are not alone.
- Acts of kindness: Do a small, thoughtful gesture for someone else—a compliment, a helpful task, or a kind word. These simple actions create positive ripples for both you and others.
- Meaningful routines: Take a few moments each day to reflect on something that brought you joy, gratitude, or a sense of accomplishment. Building these gentle habits nurtures emotional stability and peace.
- Creative expression: Try drawing, music, storytelling, or journaling to explore and express your feelings. Creativity can help process emotions, spark joy, and lift your spirits.
2. Warming the Caregiver: Caring for others can be rewarding, but it can also leave caregivers feeling drained—especially during the long, cold winter months. Taking intentional moments to nurture yourself helps restore your energy and strengthens your ability to care for others. Use these gentle strategies to reduce stress and help you feel replenished.
- “Permission slips” for rest and imperfection: Remind yourself it’s okay to pause, say no, or let small tasks go. Allowing yourself these breaks reduces stress and guilt.
- Five-minute breaks: Step away from responsibilities, even briefly, to breathe, stretch, or enjoy a warm drink. Short pauses can refresh your mind and body more than you might expect. Take a break; your future self will thank you.
- Ask for help—or accept it when offered: Let others share tasks or simply offer companionship. Accepting support fosters connection and eases the weight of caregiving.
- Celebrate small wins: Notice one thing you accomplished today, no matter how minor it seems. Recognizing your efforts builds confidence and emotional resilience.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” (Anne Lamott)
3. Warming the Mind: Winter can leave our minds feeling sluggish or overwhelmed, especially when days are shorter and routines feel heavy. Engaging in activities can refresh your thinking, reduce stress, and support overall brain health.
Friends, you are warmly invited to a brand-new interactive workshop I am facilitating at Congregation Sinai called “Stay Sharp: Nurture Curiosity for a Healthier Brain.” This is such a wonderful group! Let’s unlock your brain’s potential with lifelong curiosity! Learn how curiosity positively affects brain health and create a plan to stimulate your mind.
- Date & Time: Thursday, February 26 • 10:00–11:30 am
- Location: Congregation Sinai- 8223 N. Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Includes: Complimentary handouts and a light breakfast
- Cost: Congregation Sinai members – free, Non-members $18
- RSVP: Call 414-352-2970 or register online.
I would truly love to see you there! Workshops like this are a wonderful way to actively “warm your mind” while learning, connecting, and having fun together. See the attached flyer for more information.
“Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning.” (William Arthur Ward)
4. Music as Warmth: Songs to Lift Your Spirit: Listening to positive, heartwarming music is a wonderful way to “warm your heart” during winter. Create your own “Winter Warmth Playlist” by listening to one song each day or sharing a favorite track with a friend. Music can bring joy, spark memories, and foster emotional connection—even in the coldest months.
To get you started, here are four classic songs from the 1950s and 1960s that inspire joy, hope, and comfort:
- “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong (1967): A timeless classic celebrating life’s simple beauties. Armstrong’s warm, raspy voice and the gentle melody remind us to notice the small joys around us. Click here for the 2+ minute video.
- “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King (1961): A reassuring anthem of friendship and support. Its steady rhythm and heartfelt lyrics encourage connection and remind us we’re not alone. Click here for the 2+ minute audio.
- “Unforgettable” – Nat King Cole (1951): Smooth, elegant, and soothing, this song evokes warmth through its tender lyrics and Nat King Cole’s iconic voice. Perfect for a quiet moment of reflection. Click here for the 2+ minute video.
- “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles (1969): A joyful song of hope and renewal, perfect for winter’s slow return of light. Click here for the 3+ minute video.
5. Standing Together Against Hate: This winter reminds us of the importance of standing together as a community. Recently, antisemitic acts have occurred worldwide: a synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi, was set on fire, swastikas were painted in Brooklyn, and Shaarey Zedek Synagogue in Winnipeg was vandalized. Thankfully, the remains of the last hostage held in Gaza have now come home to rest—a moment of solace for the community.
Actor David Schwimmer reminds us: “You don’t have to say anything political… Just say that you stand with your Jewish friends, colleagues, and neighbors against hatred and discrimination.”
Even small gestures—reaching out to a friend, offering a kind word, or quiet reflection—help counter hate and foster hope. I invite you to hold Israel and the Jewish community in your thoughts and prayers, perhaps reflecting with Avinu Shebashamayim – A Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel by The Maccabeats.
“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire:
it is the time for home.” (Edith Sitwell)
Warmth doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic. Sometimes it’s a cup of tea, a deep breath, a shared smile, or a moment of stillness. This winter, may you notice and savor these small sparks of light. Have a question about aging, memory changes, community resources, or caregiving? I’m here to help! Please don’t hesitate to contact me—I’d be happy to assist.
Sending you love, light, and a gentle reminder that even the coldest days can hold warmth,
Dana
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