5 Winter Self-Care Activities in Coeur d'Alene Idaho After EMDR Therapy

If you’re from North Idaho, you already know how magical summers here can be. The sparkling lakes, endless mountain trails, and long, sun-filled days have a way of capturing our hearts. Summer is what puts Coeur d’Alene on the map and draws in visitors hoping to experience the natural beauty we’ve all grown to love. For many of us, those golden summer days are what keep us going through winters that can sometimes feel a little too long.

During the summer, self-care often comes naturally. Whether it’s a swim in the lake, a hike in the mountains, or simply soaking up the sun, these outdoor activities boost our mood and energy without us even realizing it. I often hear clients say how much lighter and happier they feel in the summer—getting their daily dose of vitamin D, spending more time outside, and naturally engaging in restorative activities. But when winter rolls around, self-care can feel more like a chore than an effortless habit.

If you’ve started EMDR therapy, you know it can stir up emotions and memories that need gentle care and attention. That’s why self-care after a session isn’t just important—it’s essential. Yet, with colder weather and shorter days, it’s tempting to retreat indoors and skip the extra effort. You might find yourself curling up on the couch instead of finding ways to recharge and nourish your soul. Don’t worry—I’m here to help with that!

Winter in Coeur d’Alene can be just as magical as summer if you’re willing to embrace it. In fact, the cold can even help regulate your nervous system—a surprising bonus! When you lean into the slower pace and peaceful charm of the season, winter becomes an opportunity to breathe, reflect, and nurture yourself. Let’s dive into why EMDR therapy can be transformative and explore winter self-care activities in Coeur d’Alene that will support your healing journey.

What Is EMDR Therapy, and Why Is It Helpful for Women Healing Trauma?

You’ve likely carried pain that runs deep, maybe even from childhood. Trauma has a way of lingering in the body and showing up in unexpected ways—through people-pleasing, anxiety, emotional eating, or even feeling stuck in your life. EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps untangle those knots by processing the memories and emotions connected to your trauma.

Here’s how it works:

• EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to help you process painful memories and not feel so reactive or emotionally disconnected all the time. 

• You don’t have to relive the trauma in detail to heal. The process is gentle, effective, and focused on helping you feel safe.

For women, especially moms, and caregivers, who often carry the weight of everyone else’s needs, EMDR therapy creates space for you. It’s a chance to stop carrying what isn’t yours to hold and to reconnect with your authentic self.

Healing your trauma isn’t just about the past; it’s about creating a future where you feel empowered, peaceful, and free from the emotional chains of old wounds.

Why Self-Care Matters After EMDR Therapy

EMDR can stir things up. After a session, you might feel raw, emotional, or even a little tired. That’s normal! Your brain is doing important work to heal, but it needs some extra TLC from you.

Self-care after EMDR therapy helps you:

• Reconnect with your body and emotions.

• Regulate your nervous system.

• Create moments of joy and relaxation.

By making self-care a priority, you reinforce the healing work you’re doing in therapy and build resilience for the future. Here are 5 winter self-care activities in Coeur d’Alene that you can engage in after your EMDR therapy session: 

1. Ice Skating at Coeur d’Alene on Ice

When was the last time you did something just for fun? Ice skating isn’t about being perfect—it’s about letting go and embracing the freedom to move and laugh with your loved ones. With the backdrop of Tubbs Hill and the twinkling rink lights, you’ll feel a little magic in the air.

Why It Helps: Gentle movement can release built-up tension in the body while focusing on the rhythm of skating helps calm a busy mind.

Pro Tip: Treat yourself to a cup of cocoa or sit in one of the private igloos for a cozy breather after your skate.

2. A Hike at Tubbs Hill

Winter hikes may not be your first thought, but Tubbs Hill is a treasure in every season. The crisp air and snow-dusted trails offer a serene way to reconnect with nature and yourself. A quiet walk here can help you process emotions, practice mindfulness, and reconnect with yourself. Bundle up and let the crisp air and natural beauty provide a calming escape.

Why it’s great for self-care: Being in nature reduces stress and improves your mood, making it a perfect complement to your EMDR therapy sessions.

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy, warm boots to navigate snowy paths safely.

3. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Coeur d'Alene

Downtown Coeur d'Alene shines in the winter, with charming shops, tasty restaurants, and holiday lights. Take a stroll along Sherman Avenue and pop into a shop or two, or head to The Holiday Lights Extravaganza at the Coeur d’Alene Resort. This simple activity can be grounding and uplifting.

Why it’s great for self-care: Gentle movement paired with the joy of exploring new things can shift your focus and elevate your mood.

4. Cozy Up at a Local Café

Sometimes, self-care is as simple as wrapping your hands around a warm cup of coffee or tea. Coeur d’Alene is home to some delightful cafés perfect for slowing down after an EMDR therapy session. A few favorites include:

• Vault Coffee – Offers a warm, inviting space with rustic charm and excellent lattes.

• Coeur d’Alene Coffee Company – Offers a modern vibe with cozy seating, perfect for unwinding.

Enjoy the comforting aroma of fresh coffee, find a quiet corner, and let yourself sink into the moment. Whether you bring a journal to jot down thoughts or just watch the snow fall outside, this can be a grounding way to care for yourself.

• Why it helps: Creating space to pause and relax after therapy helps you process emotions and recharge. Warm drinks and soothing environments can offer a gentle way to transition back into your day.

• Pro Tip: Try a seasonal special like a peppermint mocha or spiced chai to add a little winter magic to your self-care routine.

5. Cozy Snowshoe Adventure on Canfield Mountain

Snowshoeing is a peaceful way to connect with nature in the winter. Canfield Mountain offers trails where you can enjoy the crunch of snow under your feet and the tranquility of the forest. It’s a chance to reflect and ground yourself after an emotional EMDR therapy session.

Why it's great: Snowshoeing allows for mindful movement while taking in the beauty of snow-covered trees.

Pro Tip: Bring a thermos of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to sip during a short rest.  

Finding Comfort in Coeur d'Alene’s Winter Beauty

Healing is a deeply personal journey, and winter provides its own kind of solace for reflection and growth. Coeur d'Alene, with its serene landscapes and welcoming spaces, offers countless opportunities to reconnect with yourself and find peace after the hard work of EMDR therapy.

Whether you're strapping on snowshoes for a quiet hike, savoring a hot drink in a cozy café, or simply taking in the beauty of snow-dusted trees, these moments of care and presence remind us that healing is not just about processing the past—it's also about creating a future filled with connection, peace, and self-compassion.

If you’re interested in learning more about how EMDR therapy can help you heal past trauma and feel more connected in your present, let’s connect! Please reach out here for your free 15-minute consultation. 

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Jarae Swanstrom is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor practicing online throughout Idaho. She believes in a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on healing the whole body. Jarae helps women heal trauma, disordered eating, and negative body image. Learn more about Jarae or schedule a free consultation at mountainrivertherapy.com.