There’s a chill in the air and the days are getting shorter with dusk hitting earlier in the afternoon. The colder months can be a cozy time, but it doesn’t mean you need to sit on your couch and watch TV hibernating! Instead use this time to turn your attention to some activities you may not consider during the nice weather months.
Below, we’ve got eight activities to consider when the weather turns cold.
Winter Hiking
Just because the weather is colder doesn’t mean you have to abandon your love for the great outdoors. In fact, the colder months can provide some of the most beautiful hiking opportunities with autumn leaves and light snow on the landscape. Make sure you’ve got the proper gear that’s warm and remember to dress in layers, being especially mindful of having the proper footwear/boots. Grab a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate (don’t forget to bring your water as you need to stay hydrated no matter what time of year!) then get out there and enjoy the chill in the air and frosty beauty!
Indoor Gardening
If you love spring and summer gardening why not bring it inside? You can grow herbs, houseplants, or even start a mini vegetable garden using containers, just make sure what you’re growing has the right light, temperature and moisture requirements.
Culinary Adventures
Winter is the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen. Try your hand at cooking or baking new recipes. Explore the world of comfort foods, hearty stews and maybe your favorite restaurant dessert at home. You can even invite friends or family over for a cozy cooking or baking session together.
Mall Walking
Don’t knock it until you try it! If you’re an avid (or not so avid!) walker, taking a few laps around the local mall preferably before the stores open to shoppers is a great and safe way to keep your exercise up. The CDC has a walking guide about mall walking that you can access here. Visit the website of your local mall or give them a call to see when you can enter in the mornings as some malls have special hours just for walkers. Keeping up healthy habits in retirement and beyond is important and this is a great way to do it!
Home Improvement Projects
When the weather’s nice, we often let those projects around the house go, this is the perfect time to spend your time productively with a few home improvement projects. Whether it’s organizing your closets or home office, redecorating a room or two, this is the perfect time to get some stuff done and the plus is you’ll enjoy your space even more during the coziest months of the year.
Virtual and Armchair Travel
While travel may be more challenging during the colder months, you can explore the world from the comfort of your home. Virtual travel experiences, online museum tours, and cooking classes from various countries can give you a taste of diverse cultures without leaving your living room.
Book Clubs
Joining or starting a book club is a great way to stimulate your mind and stay connected with others. Google a book club near you or contact your local library for information.
Volunteering
Giving back to your community can be some of the best time you’ll ever spend. Consider volunteering your time, talents and skills to help those in need. Many organizations will welcome you for a day or on a more regular basis. Contact your local city or town hall, senior center or check out Volunteer.gov to find an opportunity to give back.
Want more? Read our blog 9 Ideas For Outdoor Activities for Adults
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