Winter can be a dark time, both figuratively and literally. In Massachusetts, the sun sets around 4 o’clock; by the time people get out of work and school, there isn’t much time for anything. Put that on the fact that it’s 30 degrees, and who would want to go outside? After all, it takes way too much effort to put on winter clothing, right?
Despite these facts, going outside is absolutely worth it. There’s the science to back it up: According to the American Psychological Association, “Nature has been linked to a host of benefits, including improved attention, lower stress, better mood, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even upticks in empathy and cooperation.” In addition to this, UC Davis Health says; “Studies have also shown that being in nature has a positive effect on our bodies by reducing cortisol levels, muscle tension, and demands on our cardiovascular systems.”
Facts aside, going outside just makes you feel good. There’s a reason why people stare in awe at photos of mountains or the beach: it’s because they wish they were in the photo! Every time I’m in a bad mood, just taking a minute outside makes me feel better.
I know what you’re thinking: It would be nice to go outside, but there isn’t enough time. It isn’t necessary to go outside every day, just whenever you have a spare moment. Consider carving out some time on the weekends, since there isn’t school to worry about. After all, your mental health is important.
Even though it’s cold out, there are a ton of fun activities to enjoy, whether it’s snowing out or not. Here are a few of the most popular winter activities, with a short description of each:
1. Hiking
I may be biased, but hiking is possibly the best thing on planet earth. There’s something about walking through the woods, and not hearing the hustle and bustle of cars: not to mention the views that you can get if you make it to the top of the mountain! You can go with your friends if you want some company, and even bring your dog too!
It may not seem like a winter thing, but hiking has something different to offer all year round. In the colder months, you don’t have to fight the bugs – and people – the entire way up. If there’s snow on the ground, even better; I’ve never seen anything prettier than a glistening, snow-capped tree!
For hikes around here, Wachusett Mountain in Princeton and Mount Watatic in Ashburnham are always good options. If you have more time, consider trying Mount Monadnock in the Jaffrey/Dublin area in New Hampshire.
2. Sledding
I know this might sound childish, but who’s too old for sledding? Grab a couple friends, a warm jacket, and a sled, and you’re good to go! Sledding brings back so many memories. It doesn’t require too much physical exertion either – unless you try sprinting back up the hill. Near us, there’s the hill up at Overlook, and… If you have a hill in your backyard, even better.
3. Skiing
A common activity for teens at Oakmont, downhill skiing is definitely a favorite. Wachusett Mountain is a great, close place to go, with rentals always available. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are a plethora of resorts in Vermont and New Hampshire to choose from too.
If downhill skiing isn’t your style, then consider trying cross country skiing (if you need a lot of convincing, look at Cate Telicki’s article, “5 Reasons why you should try cross country skiing”). It isn’t as expensive or nerve-wracking as downhill. Cross country skiing is basically “walking” on skis; you can go on flat or hilly trails, and it can be a very good workout. The fire roads at Wachusett Mountain would be a great place to try this out.
4. Snowshoeing
Another thing that requires snow, snowshoeing can be a blast! It’s basically hiking, but with funky shoes on. If you only want to snowshoe once or twice, there are some cheap ones to buy at Walmart or Dick’s. Once again, Wachusett Mountain is a great place to try this out.
5. Making bird feeders
While some birds migrate to the South for the winter, not all of them do! Birds still need to eat, but there aren’t as many options available to them in the winter. Sometimes they need a little help from humans.
There aren’t that many materials needed to make a bird feeder either. One idea would be to get a pinecone and smother it in peanut butter. Then, sprinkle some bird seed on the peanut butter, and hang it up on a tree outside. Bird seed can be bought at places like Tractor Supply and Walmart.
Another idea would be to take an empty water bottle and fill it with bird seed. Poke some holes and stick some little stakes in, and you’ve got a nice bird feeder. If it gets low, you can always refill it too.
Overall, there are lots of fun activities to do during the winter. Yes, there may be a lot of good movie options, but balance is key. We still need fresh air to feel good, and we still need to remember to take care of ourselves. After all, good health is the most important thing we can have.
