As we explored in this post on ways to practice mindfulness in Fall, each season offers its own unique opportunities to practice mindfulness. This can be especially beneficial during the winter months, as a way of getting ahead of the winter blues! Below are some winter mindfulness activities to get you inspired – outdoor activities for my brave souls and indoor ones for all the hibernators!
Outdoor Winter Mindfulness Activities
Getting outside during the winter is so good for our mental and physical health, but it can be pretty unappealing to go out in the cold. Along with some good quality cold-weather gear, having fun outdoor activities planned is a great way to motivate ourselves to head outside!
Suit Up and Go for a Walk
Whether you’re walking down the side walk or taking a hike in the middle of the woods, take a moment to notice the feel and sound of the snow crunching beneath your boots.
Try a Winter Sport
The Winter season opens up plenty of sporting opportunities – skiing, skating, snowshoeing, sledding, ice hockey, etc. Get your sport on this winter and be sure to notice your movements and the sensations in your body as you do so.
Make Snow Angels
Or if you’re deranged like me, you can also make some snow crime scene outlines – whatever floats your boat! While you’re at it, take a moment to feel the coolness of the snow beneath you, and take in the sight of the sky above you.
Watch The Snow Fall
Bonus points if you also catch a few snowflakes on your tongue.
Build a Snowman
Winter is a great season for channeling your inner child! Have some fun building a snow person or fort, or even have a snowball fight!
Go to the Beach
You read that right. I actually much prefer beaches in the off season – less people, no relentless heat, no sand sticking places it shouldn’t stick… Going to the beach in the Winter is seriously underrated. Just make sure to bundle up, and don’t go in the water, obviously!
Indoor Winter Mindfulness Activities
I get it, even with the best outdoor gear, some days nothing can motivate us to head out into the cold. Luckily, there are also plenty of ways to practice winter mindfulness in the comfort of your home!
Get Your Hot Chocolate On
Make some hot chocolate or your favourite warming beverage and really savour it! Here’s a link to a cool tea meditation that you could use for this.
Get Cozy and Read
Put some fuzzy socks on, cozy up under some blankets and read a good book you’ve been meaning to get around to!
Have a Movie Night, And Make It Special
Turn your phone off, make a bed or fort out of the couch cushions or an inflatable mattress and have your favourite snacks ready.
Cozy Hobbies
Get crafty or challenge yourself to complete a jigsaw puzzle!
Have An Indoor Picnic
Spread a picnic blanket out on your living room floor and enjoy some yummy picnic treats!
Cook a Hearty Meal
What better way to warm up than with a bowl of something rich and delicious? Mindfully cook your favourite soup, chili or curry and enjoy every mouthful of it!
Conclusion
It may not be our favourite time of year, but winter doesn’t have to be a season that we just get through. I challenge you to make up your own winter mindfulness bucket list, and practice being present during this season! Let me know below what you’ll be adding to your list 😊
PS – looking for some more ways to practice mindfulness? Check out these posts:
