Enjoying Winter the Best Way Possible

We all know spending time out in nature is so important. But up here in Canada, in winter, in the middle of January, when it’s cold – correction, VERY cold it’s probably the last thing that you want to do. Unfortunately, sunny and warm or not, it’s still very important for our health to get fresh air and spend time in nature. 

We often associate outdoor time with being active, like walking and hiking. But there are countless benefits to time in nature that doesn’t involve getting your body moving or your heart rate up. Simply looking at nature, breathing in fresh air and spending time in the sun can be incredibly beneficial. Best part is, it’s free and simple.

It isn’t, however, always easy, so here’s some things to keep in mind and a list of activities to help make getting outdoors this winter season a little less of a challenge for you, and the family. 

Source: Unsplash.com

For starters, get prepared! Get all the warm things you might need to brave the outdoors. Down jackets, hats, gloves, scarves, waterproof boots, wool socks, and there is no shame in those hot packs for your toes and fingers. Make sure you’re well equipped for a tea, bowl of soup or hot cocoa when you get back inside. 

Keep it exciting. You don’t have to stick to the same walking route you did in the summer. It always seems like there is an endless number of outdoor things to do when the weather is warm, but there is also a ton of things you can enjoy in the winter as well. Keep it fresh, try something new, and maybe you’ll find something you really enjoy.

Here are a couple ideas: 

MOVEMENT ACTIVITIES 

  • winter walk or hike 
  • shoveling your drive way (or a neighbors) 
  • snowshoeing 
  • cross country skiing 
  • ice-skating 
  • outdoor sports (i.e. soccer/ ice hockey) 
  • skiing/snowboarding 

RELAXING ACTIVITIES 

  • sip on a hot beverage outdoors
  • have a bonfire 
  • watch a sunrise or sunset 
  • stargazing 
  • feeding/watching birds 

CREATIVE ACTIVITIES 

  • build a snowman 
  • paint the snow with food colouring and water in spray bottles
  • outdoor tic tac toe using sticks and stones
  • blow bubbles and watch them freeze 

ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES 

  • fly a kite 
  • climb trees 
  • follow animal tracks in the snow 
  • snowball fight
  • try to catch snowflakes on your tongue 
  • go sledding 
  • ice-fishing 

Please always watch out for ice and extreme cold warnings before going outdoors, and always dress warm!

There is no need to stay cooped up inside this winter season – get out and enjoy the cold! And remember the AWH team is always at hand to support you throughout the winter season. Book your appointment today!