Being in lockdown and social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t stay busy and try to enjoy all that winter has to offer.
Staying active and keeping yourself entertained are key for good physical and mental health, especially when facing uncertainty.
Whether solo, or with your family, take a look through the list of suggestions below and get out there and enjoy.
Ice skating
Ice skating is a classic winter pastime. There are plenty of outdoor rinks and trails that can be enjoyed while remaining socially distanced from the other participants, so long as your region allows it and you're following the rules set in place by the government.
Many places offer skate rentals if you don’t have your own, and skating will give you a great cardiovascular workout and all the benefits of time spent outdoors in the sunshine (or the magic of skating outdoors on a sparkly winter’s eve).
Another option – build a backyard rink of your own so you and your family can enjoy it together without leaving the comfort of your own property.
Cross-country skiing
With a lot of ski hills temporarily closed, it’s a great time to try your hand at the cross-country version.
Wait for a good snowfall and your neighbourhood turns into a great “make your own adventure” trail. Make sure you stretch before heading out, and have a cup of hot chocolate waiting when you get back.
Crafting
If you’ve blown through all your favourite TV shows and are looking for a new source of entertainment, then it might be time to to try a new hobby.
Whether you want to try knitting, painting or making something like a DIY bird feeder (and likely some squirrels and other neighbourhood critters) tap into your creative skills.
In fact, the bird feeder is easy to make and will provide hours of entertainment. For this recipe your treats are encased in ice, which makes a pretty ornament to hang outside your window, so it’s dinner and a show.
Bonfire night
Nothing sounds cozier on a dark, chilly winter’s eve than a nice roaring fire.
You can host this outdoors while social distancing with a few neighbours (again, if your government's guidelines allow to do so), or keep it small with just your immediate household.
You can fill the night with hot chocolate, marshmallows, hot dogs and/or adult beverages.
Virtual paint night
Miss getting together with your friends for a night on the town?
Try organizing a virtual paint night. There are plenty of follow-along videos on YouTube you can pick from, or you can find an artist who can virtually take you through a painting session.
Grab some supplies, snacks and beverages and get ready to tap into your inner Bob Ross.
Start your garden prep
If you’re like many Canadians who started to explore their green thumb last summer, then you might be thinking about this year’s crops.
This handy calendar will let you know when to start your seeds indoors (depending on where you live). You can get your plants growing and off to a strong start before moving them outside.
At home or outdoor workouts
Your GoodLife Membership grants you access to a video library with 200+ on-demand workouts. The GoodLife Fitness blog also houses a ton of workouts, many of which you can do from the comfort of your own home.
If the weather permits, you can try going on a walk or run with some intermittent body weight exercises. Fresh air and exercises are sure to lift your spirits as well as your heart rate.