I can’t think of any specific winter smells—how do I still journal with this prompt?

Start with any small detail, even if it feels vague: cold air on your face, dry indoor heat, or the taste of mint gum. List three words that come to mind (e.g., crisp, cinnamon, quiet) and free-write for two minutes on each. If smell isn’t coming up, switch senses: textures (wool, ice), sounds (crunching snow), or tastes (cocoa, citrus). Notice what emotions or memories each cue stirs without judging them. In Stoic, a short note or bullet list is enough—capture impressions, not perfection.

The holidays make me feel lonely. How can I use this scent/taste prompt without spiraling?

Set a gentle boundary before you start: choose one neutral or comforting cue (like pine, vanilla, or tea) and write for just five minutes. Describe the cue objectively first (what, where, when) before exploring feelings—separate sensation from story, a simple Stoic practice to reduce overwhelm. Ask yourself: What is in my control right now (breath, pace, where I sit) and what isn’t (past events)? End with one supportive line you wish you could hear today. If emotions rise, pause, ground in your senses, and come back later.

My winter holidays were tough growing up—how do I journal about scents without getting stuck in the past?

Create distance: write in third person (“They smell clove and remember…”) or use a timeline (“Then,” “Now,” “Next time”). Pair each difficult memory with a stabilizing present cue (the feel of a warm mug, the scent of soap) to anchor yourself. Note what the memory is telling you about your values (belonging, calm, honesty)—this shifts focus from pain to meaning, a Stoic-aligned move. Keep entries short; end by naming one thing you appreciate in the present moment. The Stoic app can hold these brief reflections so you can build them gradually over the season.

Journaling Idea - On Winter Holidays.

If you close your eyes and think about winter and holidays, can you smell anything?

Do any scents or tastes bring you back to winter breaks?

Journal in Stoic

Written by

Zach Beauvais

Published on

Dec 29, 2021

Journal in Stoic

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Zach Beauvais

Writing & User Experience

Zach helps stoic design experiences for mental and emotional wellness, creating guided meditations, mindful walks, and journaling prompts rooted in Stoic philosophy. He also serves as Marketing Director at Cornell’s ILR School, where he helps leaders clarify their purpose and turn ideas into content that engages students, faculty, and collaborators. With over 15 years of experience in storytelling, community building, and content strategy, Zach brings both creativity and clarity to his work. Outside of writing and strategy, he enjoys photography, making coffee, and carving spoons, bowls, and cups from green wood.

If you close your eyes and think about winter and holidays, can you smell anything?

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