When winter really sets in, the sun is a welcome change from all those grey skies and cold days. There's really nothing more invigorating that a cold, crisp winter day when the sun shines bright – and those days present tons of opportunities to do so many fun things! Here, in fact, are 7 ways to take advantage of sunny winter days.
1. Walk Your Pet
Your pets can get cabin fever as well. I know that when it's really cold, my darling little dachshund hardly likes to go outside to the bathroom; he hates getting his feet cold! When the temperatures warm up a little and the sun is out, however, his very favorite thing to do is go on a walk so he can romp in the snow – and mark it up about a million times, so everyone else knows he's been there.
2. Make a Snow Angel
It's always a good thing when you can see snow as a canvas rather than a never ending, monotonous blanket of whiteness. When the sun is out, twinkling off all those crystals, it's possible to see it that way – and to have fun. Revisit your youth, have fun with your kids, your partner, your friends, and go make a snow angel! Plus remember to take pictures!
3. Go Hiking
Hiking in the winter time is a great experience, but especially when it's sunny. You don't have to go on an hours' long nature hike designed to kick your butt. A casual, fun hike where you just meander wherever you will is perfect. Not only do you get to experience the sunshine, but the snow sprinkled scenery is apt to be breathtaking.
4. Take Pictures
If you've ever wanted to get into photography, or if you already are, winter time presents a wealth of opportunities. There are so many pretty sights, especially when it's sunny. The sun shining off the ice and the snow is absolutely breathtaking, and you can capture a lot of memories and gorgeous scenes.
5. Have a Party
Why not celebrate the sunshine by having a party? You don't have to wait for a holiday, and it doesn't have to be anything big. A wonderful luncheon on a sunny day would be absolutely perfect. You can invite your family members and closest friend, and celebrate the – probably short lived – warmth!
6. Exercise outside
Once it starts getting sunny, even if it isn't for the long haul, a great way to take advantage is to go outside and get some exercise! Go for a walk, a jog, take out your bike, go ice skating, skiing, or snowshoeing – there are tons of possibilities, just waiting for you to take advantage of them!
7. Visit the Park
Finally, when the snow starts to thaw a little and the sun is shining brightly, take yourself out to the park! Whether it's just you, you and your partner, a group of friends, or your children, a trip to the park is a great way to celebrate the sunshine. Being out in the fresh air will feel like a huge rejuvenation.
It's important to take advantage of all the sunny days you can. They'll help you get through to the spring. What are your favorite ways to spend sunny winter days?
Top Photo Credit: KamillaNylund
Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I do outdoors on a sunny winter day?
- Oh, you should definitely go for a long walk or hike! The fresh air is so invigorating, and the sunlight is a beautiful mood booster. Plus, the winter landscape has its own unique charm.
- How can I enjoy a sunny but cold day without freezing?
- Layers, my friend! Dress in lots of cozy layers and maybe find a nice coffee shop with big windows to soak up the sun without the chill.
- Are there any fun activities for kids on a cold sunny day?
- Absolutely! How about building a snowman if there's any snow, or going on a nature scavenger hunt? Kids love exploring, even when it's cold out!
- What are some relaxing things to do even if it's sunny but chilly?
- Reading a book by a sunny window or doing some gentle yoga indoors is so relaxing. Or, you can sit with a warm drink and just watch the world outside!
- Any tips for enjoying the sun in winter without feeling cold?
- Hey, just bundle up and make sure to get outside for at least a little bit. Even a quick walk can be a real pick-me-up. Bonus points if you find a sunny spot to pause and soak it all in!