Winter Activities to Combat Cabin Fever

By Talya Culbertson, Internal Communications Specialist

It’s cold. The wind rattles the windows. Snowflakes fly in every which direction. And you’re left longing for warm, sunny days.

It can be hard to muster motivation in the winter – especially when four o’clock feels like eight o’clock and you haven’t yet ventured outdoors. But you can combat winter cabin fever in healthy, productive ways and maybe even get a jump on some of those New Year’s Resolutions in the process.

Whether you’re looking for indoor activities or want to get out and enjoy the cooler temps, there are many ways to keep from falling into a winter slump.

Exercise. Head to the gym or pull up an on-demand video and follow along to get your heart pumping.

Hit the slopes. Skiing, sledding and tubing all make for fun snow day activities.

Go hiking. No snow, no problem: Find a trail and enjoy the day. Too much snow for a regular hike? Give snowshoeing or cross country skiing a try—most trails allow for it in the winter and many park offices have rental equipment available.

Learn to knit or crochet. Make a blanket, hat, or scarf for yourself or a loved one.

Expand your knowledge. Take an online class in a topic that interests you.

Learn to cook. Take a cooking class with a friend - or go alone to meet new people.

Be entertained. Have a movie marathon and make homemade cocoa.

Chill. Grab your coziest blanket, a warm beverage and a book.

Relax. Treat yourself to a spa day—at home or at your favorite local spa.

Enjoy a fire. Kick back by a bonfire with a blanket and roast marshmallows or sip cocoa.

Have an adventure:

Be a tourist in your own town. Visit a local art center, botanical garden, aquarium or museum.

Sample the local beverages. Go on a tasting tour at local wineries or breweries.

See the wildlife. In Southern California, check out a whale-watching tour. Grey whales are active in the winter months as they head down the coast from Alaska toward Mexico.

Go stargazing. The winter air is less hazy and holds less moisture, resulting in clear skies. The cooler temps mean the popular viewing locations like state and national parks are less crowded, making for some great spots to take in the Orion, Taurus, Cassiopeia and the Andromeda Galaxy. And, if you’re far enough north, you may be able to catch the aurora borealis, or northern lights as they flicker across the night sky.

Make and take. Bake cookies and share some with a neighbor.

Volunteer. Choose a cause you’re passionate about and offer your time.

Help your neighbors. Offer to walk a neighbor’s dog or shovel their driveway.

What helps you curb cabin fever this time of year? Let us know in the Comments!