I used to HATE winter, I would grumble, complain and refuse to do anything outdoors! Once I accepted that winter is inevitable when you live in Canada, I needed to figure out a way to start enjoying it. So many people hate winter (I see you all complaining online) so I wanted to take a moment to share some tips that have helped me get through those long winter months!
10 Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
- Embrace Winter – Once you realize that winter is just another season you will have an easier time adapting to it. It took me years to accept winter, so don’t be hard on yourself if it takes you some time to adjust.
- Outdoor Activities – There are so many activities you can enjoy outdoors, like skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing! Even a visit to the local dog park is a great way to get outside and get some sun. Finding an activity you love makes it easier to be outside! For our family we love to ski together so we frequent Snow Valley with the kids.
- Read a Book – I recently read that we were meant to have seasons, it forces us to take downtime and relax more in the winter. One of the best ways to do this is to read a book! Cozy up under a blanket, grab a coffee and flip through the pages. I’m always learning something new from non-fiction books!
- Organize – Take the time during those chilly days you don’t want to go outside and organize your home or life. For me I love to reorganize the kids items and take out what they no longer fit or play with. I sell the items online (one Christmas break I made over 1000 dollars) or donate them to charity.
- Take A Trip – Travelling is one of my favourite things to do. I have a stressful job so I enjoy the break! Plan a trip somewhere warm, or cold and take some time away during the winter. It’s a great way to take a break and recharge your batteries!
- Sign up for Activities – Whether you sign yourself up or your kids, a scheduled activity is a great way to get out of the house to socialize with others. Take a cooking class, join a book club or learn to sew! The possibilities are endless for you to learn a new skill.
- Exercise – Join a local gym or try a new fitness class. It’s a great way to relieve stress and increase mental and physical well being.
- Have Friends Over – Chances are if you are bored so are your friends! So many people entertain during the holiday season but January/February is a great time to also invite people over as well for a dinner party or visit. You don’t need a special occasion just do it!
- Self Care – No better time to work on self care than in winter! Focus on your health and well being by booking a spa appointment, take a yoga class or spend some time journaling.
- Set Some Goals for the Year – Spend the time making a vision board or writing out some goals for yourself. If you set the intention early you’ll be more likely to stick to it!