As cold, snowy days roll in, do you have a plan to stay healthy and keep busy? Many people struggle to find inside activities they enjoy, so they end up watching a lot of television., spending time on their devices and giving into boredom.
Before we get into the thick of winter, come up with a plan to stay healthy and have fun inside that will carry you through for a few months. Planning ahead is a great way to enjoy the winter season with fun, health and inspiration.
Here are some cold weather activities you might enjoy.
Try New Hobbies
Now is the perfect time to experiment with trying new activities. More often than not, we find ourselves wishing we had more time to devote to fun and relaxation. Hobbies to consider include doing puzzles, reading, scrapbooking and painting. Don’t be afraid to try something new such as knitting, origami, sewing or photography. If you need more ideas, search online or visit your local library for other options. You know the old saying…you never know until you try!
Stay Active
Not all activity has to be done outside or even at the gym. Find some activities that can be done from the comfort of your home on a cold, snowy day. Check out an online yoga class; all you need is a mat! There are many videos you can find online with activities that include inside walking, strength-training and flexibility.
Tackle New Projects
You probably have a list a mile long of things that need to get done around the house. This list is often overwhelming, but you can pick one or two to start with and go from there. Take time creating or adding to your list and set a goal to tackle at least one item each week or every couple of days. Your list may include cleaning the linen closet, painting the bathroom or organizing your kitchen cabinets. Completing tasks will give you a feeling of accomplishment while improving your day-to-day living.
Be Social
Don’t hide yourself away all winter. Humans need social interaction. Although it’s easy to stay snuggled under a blanket, try to make a few social plans each month. Go shopping with a friend, meet a co-worker for coffee or have a date night out with your partner. If the weather is bad, take a minute to pick up the phone and call a friend. Small, social activities can improve your mood and overall mental health.
Get Motivated
Where do you want to be and what do you want to accomplish? Taking a few steps forward can motivate you to reach your goals. Pick up a journal to start goal-setting and making plans. Step up your creativity and put together a vision board that shows where you want to be in six months and one year. Use this for motivation all winter long!
Nourish Your Body
Healthy eating isn’t always easy, and building healthy habits can take time. This year, spend some time focusing on nutrition. It’s easy to get stuck in a food rut, so experiment with finding new meal ideas, recipes and healthy snacks your whole family will enjoy. Every one may not be a winner, but it’s fun to experiment and find new favorites.
Don’t let this winter pass you by! There are so many cold weather activities you can do that don’t involve staying on the couch or gluing yourself to a phone or computer screen. Try something new, have fun, and focus on things that bring you joy!
