Catch up with family and friends
This is an obvious one, but no winter survival guide would be complete without making time for your family and friends on Zoom or Facetime. You could even plan a holiday Zoom party with creative traditions and funny games that are sure to make it a party to remember.
Cozy up with your pets
Did you know studies have shown that pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression and often have lowered blood pressure and fewer indicators of heart disease? Cozying up and playing with your cat or dog can also elevate the levels of serotonin and dopamine in your body which will help you relax and feel better if you are stressed.
Learn a new skill
Spending more time at home makes this a great time to learn a new skill, especially one that can benefit your winter survival wardrobe! Knitting or crocheting yourself a new scarf or blanket, or maybe making one as a gift, will keep your hands occupied while you binge-watch holiday movies or the latest Netflix trend.
Build a gingerbread house
If you have kids (or even if you don’t!) building a gingerbread house is a great way to pass a few hours in the winter time. Order some candy, cereal and icing in your next grocery pick-up and decorate a graham cracker house, or you can even make your own gingerbread with this Food Network recipe. Turn it into a friendly competition and build a whole gingerbread village with your family… until it’s time to eat them!
Read a book
Reading can give you a chance to escape into another world for a while, and don’t we all need an escape right now? Try taking turns reading a book together with someone in your home, or put together a book club on Zoom to discuss your latest read.
Make holiday crafts
Mailing a homemade card or craft is a surefire way to brighten someone’s day this holiday season. Use supplies you have at home to put together a cute gift to display on the mantle or send to a family member.
Finish a puzzle
Puzzles are already a winter survival favorite for many families, but this year more and more of us are breaking out the puzzle mat and looking for those corner pieces. Make puzzle night more exciting by setting a timer for completion, designing your own puzzle or even using a puzzle to create a DIY escape room at home.
Write a story
There’s never been a better time to get out your laptop (or a notebook — old school) and write a story. Not sure where to start? Write down memories from your childhood to save for your children or grandchildren. These stories are sure to be cherished for generations to come, or maybe they’ll even become the next best-seller!
Bust out the board games
Still bored this winter? Why not try a “board” game? 😉 Play a family classic that everyone loves, or order a new game online to learn together. You can even try playing a board game over Zoom to have a virtual game night.
No matter how you spend your winter at home, we hope you stay safe and healthy!