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Winter may still be underway, but this is no reason to wish this time away! Even if you are not a fan of winter sports or you struggle during the shorter winter days, there are many opportunities to enjoy cozy indoor activities, relax with friends or families, try on new hobbies, and recharge your batteries before the busier spring and summer days.
In this guide, we’ll look at a few ideas and activities that you can enjoy despite the weather, whether you are alone, with family, or with friends. Let’s get started!
Get Lost in a Good Book
One of the best winter activities is to get lost in a good book. For this activity, all you need is really just a good book, a comfy chair or couch, and, to make the experience even cozier, a cup of hot chocolate or tea.
Reading may seem like an obvious option, but it can really add magic to winter evenings or rainy weekends. Plus, reading offers a lot of benefits, including:
- Expands vocabulary and knowledge
- Reduces stress
- Boosts imagination
- Improves focus and concentration
- Offers a welcome escape
Research has even shown that reading is associated with increased longevity! And, the best thing is that you can choose your favorite genre to enjoy these benefits. If you are not a fan of self-help books or autobiographies, pick up a novel or a collection of short stories that captures your imagination. Truly, any type of reading counts toward better well-being.
Rediscover Card Games
Card games have been a favorite pastime for millennia, so why not rediscover some of the most timeless ones today? If you are alone, you can try solitaire or, if playing with friends, you could set up a game of rummy, poker, spades, or hearts. For children, options like Go Fish, Crazy Eights, Old Maid, and Memory offer fun ways to play and learn new skills together.
If you don’t have a physical deck of cards, online platforms allow you to enjoy a game or practice your skills. And, the options are endless! On specialized platforms you can find comprehensive collections of classic games such as freecell, bridge, canasta, euchre, and even multiplayer favorites like blackjack or gin rummy.
Host a Movie or Series Marathon Night
If you are looking for a cozy activity to enjoy during a rainy or snowy winter with the entire family, why not set up a movie or series marathon night? For this, all you need is a TV connected to your favorite streaming service and a comfy seat or couch that can fit comfortably everyone. To add some magic to your evening, consider preparing popcorn, setting up a tray of snacks, and equipping your sofa with plenty of blankets and cushions. Then, just press play!
Learn a New Skill or Hobby Online
Did you know that learning a new skill or hobby can have many health benefits? The process of learning a new skill or activity can improve self-confidence and self-image, and it helps you build trust in your own ability to learn new skills and overcome obstacles. And, these mindset shifts can be applied to other aspects of daily life, including work or study. Plus, learning a new hobby can offer great opportunities for socialization and support improved mental health. If you choose an outdoor hobby, such as hiking, camping, or walking, your new hobby can even contribute to better physical health and fitness!
Plan a Winter Vacation
If you live in an area with cold, dark winters, you may consider the benefits of organizing a long vacation abroad, especially if you can work remotely for some time. In these cases, tropical, affordable destinations, such as Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia make for the perfect gateway. Just make sure to plan ahead and check that winter is a good period for visiting your chosen destination.
Practice Yoga or Gentle Stretching
If you are looking for an indoor activity that benefits both the mind and the body, consider trying activities such as Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, or gentle stretching. These activities can help improve strength, flexibility, and balance, while also supporting stress reduction, self-awareness, and relaxation. If you are new to these disciplines, find a local class or sign up for online courses guided by an expert tutor.
Try Knitting, Crochet, or Embroidery
Creating crafts can be a fantastic way to relax during winter. With just a few supplies, you can begin a knitting, crochet, or embroidery project that not only creates a great passtime, but also allows you to create something with your own hands. To get started, find a simple project, source your supplies from a local vendor, and follow easy tutorials to strengthen your foundational knowledge. Once you get the basics, it is all about practice!
Play Classic Board Games With Family
Board games are one of the best ways to spend an evening of fun with your whole family or friends. Here, the choice is endless! You can opt for classics such as Pictionary, Tabu, Monopoly, or Risk, or try out some new options such as Ticket to Ride or Settlers of Catan. If you enjoy strategy-based games, consider Pandemic, Carcassonne, or 7 Wonders, while Boggle and Scrabble are perfect for fans of wordplay.
Just make sure to spend some time before the game to review all the rules and have plenty of snacks and herbal teas at hand!
Catch Up on Journaling or Creative Writing
If you are looking for a meditative practice that allows for introspection, opt for activities such as journaling or creative writing. These are perfect to process your thoughts, set future goals, or even note down everyday memories in a creative way. Plus, regular writing can help reduce stress, improve problem-solving skills, and foster emotional resilience.
Listen to Your Favorite Music or Podcasts
Last but not least, going back to the classics, take some time to listen to music or a favorite podcast. These are great options if you are looking for an accessible pastime on the go and, thanks to today’s streaming platforms, the options are endless and always within reach. Plus, you may be able to discover new artists and topics, turning this activity into an educational one, too!
