Getting outdoors this winter shouldn’t have to feel like a chore. Yes, getting all of the gloves to have matches, the boots on the right feet, the jackets fully zipped, and the hats to actually stay over their ears is a feat in itself. But, once you have that on, there are so many benefits from getting outdoors during the cold mid Michigan winters.
Taking the time to get outdoors gives a huge, automatic boost to one’s mood. Living in Michigan, many of us face SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) because of the dark days and long nights. But, even just 15 minutes a day out in the sunlight and fresh air will give your body all of those feel-good chemicals. The serotonin release from the sunlight and the vitamin D will boost your mood by giving you more energy, lessening stress, and bringing that sense of adventure that many of us crave after being cooped up for at least four months out of the year. But, the question is: how do we get outdoors in the winter (and enjoy it)?
Find a Fun Family Outdoor Activity
I come from a hockey family, as does my husband, so for us outdoor ice skating is a must every year. Getting outdoors in the winter was never forced, it was always something that we looked forward to doing. Last year we even decided that we don’t always like going to our family members’ houses when we want to go skate around. Little did we know what was going to be coming with the pandemic and not being able to go anywhere. We decided to buy a rink in a box and set it up in our backyard.
It is so much fun to just lace up the skates and step out into your yard and get a little fun workout in. If skating isn’t your thing, there are so many trails in the greater Lansing area for you to do a little winter hiking, snow-shoeing or even cross country skiing on. Maybe you have a competitive family and want to do a snowman building contest or sledding races. The more you show the desire to get outside, the more your kids will want to do it with you.
Have an Outdoor Accountability Partner This Winter
Some days you just want to binge your favorite series on Netflix (hello, The Crown) and not get off the couch. Well, if you have an accountability partner that sits and stares at you, panting in your face, there is no way that you can just relax and enjoy the queen. I am not talking about my kid or husband staring and panting, I am talking about my dog, Zeus. Dogs are great mood boosters on their own. I mean who doesn’t love doggy snuggles? But then add in that they don’t care if it’s 15 degrees out in Michigan, they just want to go for their w.a.l.k. Yes you have to spell it and not say it at our house or he gets too excited. Sometimes their extra little push is just what you need to get outdoors this winter and get in some fresh air.
Don’t have a pet yet? Maybe now is the perfect time with us being at home way more than normal and not as many after work/school activities. Check out your local shelters (Capital Area Humane Society or Ingham County Animal Shelter) for adoptable pets that would fit in with your family!
Get Cozy to Stay Comfy Outdoors This Winter
Having the right winter gear is a game changer for getting outdoors and enjoying your time this winter. Nobody is comfortable in cold, wet socks and mittens outside. It is important to find the right footwear for your desired activity. Whether it be snowboarding, skiing, sledding, hiking, or running, your feet are getting you where you want to go so make sure you are taking good care of them. Check out Playmakers or Moosejaw for kids and adult boots, weatherproof shoes, smartwool socks, hats, and water resistant gloves. Bonus for me if it does the job and is cute and fuzzy. And double bonus if it involves hot cocoa!
Do you have any outdoor activities your family does year after year?
thats interesting! Thanks for your sharing! Winter outdoor looks good !!!