Beat The Winter Blues

Written By Julie Paiva, CHHC

How many of you have spring fever, but are still locked in the house by frigid temperatures?  With the cold weather still upon us, it’s common to want to get outside and start enjoying nature again. Being stuck inside gets boring fast and isn’t nearly as exciting as the abundance of activities that spring and summer have to offer. However, there are many ways to beat cabin fever, so you aren’t left feeling bored, restless, or agitated.  Encourage your kiddos to put down the TV remote, and try one of these fun and engaging indoor activities with you instead.

Tackle the winter blues with these activities:

Game night

Dust off those board games and gather around the kitchen table with the family for some good old-fashion fun.

Dance it out

Not only is dance a unique way to stay active, but it is also a great stress reliever and promotes self-expression. Turn up those tunes and dance like nobody is watching.

Build an indoor obstacle course

Indoor obstacle courses can fun for kids and adults alike. Set up various stations around your house such as hula-hooping, jump roping, tossing balls into boxes, etc. The possibilities are endless!

Treasure Hunt

Write up clues and/or create a map and let the kids go hunting for “gold”.  Hide whatever little treat you want for them to discover.  It doesn’t need to be extravagant because the activity alone will bring them great joy.

Arts and Crafts 

Create something magical.  Whether you paint, draw, scrapbook, make cards or design a sculpture.  Getting crafty always brings joy.

Indoor picnic and movie night

Pack up some snacks or a meal, lay out a blanket on your family room floor, turn on a movie and enjoy some fun family time together.

SSR

Do you remember Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) from when you were in elementary school?  Grab a book that you have been dying to sink your teeth into, find a comfy spot and read.

Go to a museum.

Chances are you probably haven’t spent much time in a museum lately. It’s always valuable to use your brain, learn and see something different. Many local libraries also offer discount cards to museums.

Schedule a cooking class.

From newbies to foodies, a cooking class is a fun, interactive experience for everyone! You can choose to do the class alone or ask a few friends to sign up with you. If you have children interested in cooking, teach them how to create a masterpiece in the kitchen.

Make it a spa day.

Calm both your body and mind by giving yourself some pampering. Book a massage or facial and enjoy a few hours of pure relaxation. If you don’t feel like venturing out, draw yourself a bath, light some candles, put on some soothing music and relax.

At-home workout

Being stuck inside is no longer an excuse for not being able to work out. There are so many free exercise videos on Youtube and apps that you can get these days.  Choose whatever type of exercise you like and get that blood pumping.

Declutter

When you know you’re going to be inside for a few hours, cross decluttering off your to-do list! Open those closets, drawers and cabinets and organize away. Donate the things that you no longer need.  You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that will boost your mood.