Indoor Activities to Strengthen Body and Mind During Winter Season

I have included a list of suggestions that will develop a stronger, smarter individual over the course of the winter season. I understand that with the cold front approaching, we are more susceptible to heat and participating in comfort activities. Comfort is a pleasant, intriguing noun that prompts me even now as I sit happily in front my computer. The cold weather teases me as I embrace a hot, steamy shower or rush anxiously to/from my parking lot. All I long for is a cup of hot cocoa and a warm blanket, then nestle soundly on my couch watching re-runs of Lost or Heroes. As tempting as it sounds, I instead choose a more physical schedule that will dwindle the restlessness from my body and prepare for spring.

To battle the winter season, we first require a strong mind. As the cold hacks at your muscles and sinus's, your mind is slowly being weakened as well. Determination and a little motivation will inevitably lead you to developing the mind power needed to achieve victory. Though you feel weak and weary as fatigue drains the liveliness from your soul, we search for a positive perspective. Focus on challenging expectations, but beware discouragement as it attempts to overcome you. For instance, though you may feel tired on a Friday/Saturday night, you can exceed your expectations and endure a night of partying; of course you won't be going to bed early as you would on a weekday. Though your body is informing you that it's past bed time, your mind is able to resist the routine and endure the change. Activities that can strengthen the mind include meditation, reading, writing, or anything that demands concentration. Chess is a great board game that exhibits fine strategic skills and critical thinking. With mediation, you may be able to relieve the stress or negative pressure associated with being kept indoors. Reading can educate the mind as well as encourage you to participate in winter hobbies. There are many mind strengthening activities that do not involve a television or warm blanket. Think about it.....now we're getting somewhere.    

First to my body strengthening regime is a physical workout routine. I understand that winter weather brings winter routine, and workouts are not typically on the list. Muscles tend to conflict with cold weather so ensure that warm-ups are the initial exercise you perform. If you have any goals for weight gain or muscle mass, you should be well-defined by spring and ready to display your hard work. If you are less physical, yoga or pilates may interest you. Depending on your method of meditation, you may also acquire a workout through this. Get off the couch and go to a gym, martial arts/boxing class, etc. Even lifting a few free weights around the house can increase your physical stamina.

What you do this winter will lead to who you become in the spring/summer of next year. Feel free to stay warm and relaxed; however, if you desire to combat the cold and stay active simply brainstorm a few activities that do not involve you watching television all day.