Beat the Winter Blues: 10 Ways to Make The Most of The Cold Weather Days
It’s the new year, the Christmas decorations have been put away, and it's left you feeling at loose ends. The post-Christmas let-down and winter blues are common emotions that many people experience during this time of year. After the excitement and joy of the holiday season, it's natural to experience a sense of melancholy as the festivities come to an end. Additionally, winter's cold and shorter days can contribute to a decrease in mood, energy levels, and motivation, as the first month of the new year can certainly feel long and monotonous.
Fortunately, we’ve got some fantastic ways to help you beat those winter blues right in our community. Whether you are seeking activities inside, or outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy and help make the most of this chilly month in the region. So, let's dive in and explore some exciting ways to lift your spirits and make January a cheerful month to remember!
Revitalize: Take a Walk or a Run at a Local Indoor Track
Walking a track indoors provides a convenient and weather-proof option for exercise and recreation. The Town of Milton provides walking and running tracks that are easily accessible to the community. They’re well-maintained and offer a safe and comfortable environment for individuals of all fitness levels. Whether you seek a leisurely stroll or engage in a brisk walk or run, the rec centre provides a dedicated space for you to stay active throughout the year offering an enclosed space with a smooth surface for walking and jogging. Bring your earbuds and blast the tunes, or call a friend to join you and catch up as you take a jog or a stroll!
Visit The Milton Sports Center at 605 Santa Maria Blvd, Milton
Mattamy National Cycling Center - Velodrome
Indulge Yourself in a Well-Deserved Day of Pampering
Visiting a spa can be an excellent way to rejuvenate, uplift your mood, and beat the blues and low mood. Local spas, such as Enhance , provide various relaxing and revitalizing treatments that can help melt away stress and renew your energy. A spa experience can provide a much-needed escape from the winter blues, from soothing massages to invigorating facials, manicures and pedicures. Treat yourself to a day of self-care and pampering, allowing skilled therapists to ease your body's tension and restore your mind's balance. Embrace the tranquillity and indulgence of a spa visit and emerge renewed and refreshed. Be sure to check out the vast menu of pampering treatments available from the friendly staff at Enhance Spa.
Enhance Spa is located at 420 Bronte Street, Suite 105, Milton
Escape into Tropical Greenery - Locally
Amid the winter, the world outside may seem lonely and devoid of vibrant colour; visiting a greenhouse can transport you to an oasis of lush greenery and provide a much-needed respite from the winter doldrums. These mini paradises, with their climate-controlled warm environments, feature a tropical haven where plants can flourish regardless of chilly temperatures outside. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the lovely earthy scent of plants, flowers, fresh earth and warm air.
Royal Botanical Gardens houses a winter exhibit called "Nature's Superheroes!" This captivating exhibition showcases the fascinating powers and abilities of various flora and fauna, highlighting the incredible resilience and adaptations found in the natural world. Visitors can also visit the Mediterranean gardens, taking a stroll and immersing themselves in the tranquil ambiance of the lush greenery.
Royal Botanical Gardens is located at 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
Visit an Art Gallery and Take a Class
Visiting an art gallery in winter can be an excellent way to escape the cold and immerse yourself in creativity. Locally, The Art Gallery at Joshua Creek features an impressive collection of contemporary Canadian and international artworks. With rotating exhibits throughout the year, there is always something new and exciting to explore. The gallery showcases various artistic styles and mediums from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. One of the unique aspects of Joshua Creek is its connection to nature. The property features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and scenic ponds. Visitors can take strolls through the grounds, immersing themselves in the centre’s natural beauty. This integration of art and nature creates a genuinely enriching and immersive experience.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Joshua Creek Heritage Center's Art Gallery is a must-visit destination. It includes a beautiful opportunity to appreciate art, connect with the community, and find inspiration in the beauty of both culture and nature.
Joshua Creek is located at 1086 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville
For Kids & Parents: Burn off Some Extra Energy at an Indoor Playground
Winter days can get long for young children and parents, and adventuring with your wee ones to a climate-controlled playground during the winter months provides numerous benefits. It offers a source of mental stimulation. Additionally, these playgrounds include ample chances for social interaction. Children can meet and play with peers, fostering critical social skills like sharing, taking turns, and cooperation. The playgrounds are designed with various interactive elements such as colourful play structures, sensory experiences, and educational games that engage children's minds and promote cognitive development. Skadaddle Kids in Milton and L’ll Monkeys in Burlington provide a clean, safe environment for kids to burn off some energy!
Refresh Your Space: Dive into Early Spring Cleaning
After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it's natural to want to give your home a fresh start. Rather than waiting for spring cleaning, why not take advantage of this post-Christmas period to tidy up and refresh your living space? It's the perfect time to embark on a mini home makeover! Consider trying a new furniture arrangement to breathe new life into your rooms. Sometimes, a simple rearrangement can create a new atmosphere and make your space more inviting and functional. Get creative and experiment with different layouts to find the one that suits your style and needs. And, of course, don't forget the power of a deep clean. Dust those hard-to-reach corners, scrub away any lingering holiday messes, and thoroughly clean your home from top to bottom. Freshly cleaned floors, sparkling windows, and a tidy environment will instantly rejuvenate your living space.
In downtown Milton, you can easily find sustainable, eco-friendly products to support your efforts. Pay a visit to The Kind Matter Company, located in Milton, and discover their thoughtfully curated collections of cleaning products and other items for your home and body. They feature stylish and eco-friendly options that align with your commitment to sustainability. Take advantage of this to explore their range of products and make your home a more eco-friendly and enjoyable space. Combining a welcoming ambiance and a well-maintained space can elevate your cozy home.
Take a trip to the Kind Matter Company at #6-15 Martin St, Milton, ON
Care for a Houseplant
Finding and purchasing a new houseplant during the winter can be a great way to bring some greenery and life into your home. While the colder season may present some challenges, plenty of options remain available for buying tropical plants in winter. Cultivating houseplants is known to reduce stress and anxiety and can be an excellent way to create a calming and relaxing environment in your home. These plants add beauty to your space and contribute to your overall well-being. Visit Mississauga Greenhouses at the border of Oakville and Mississauga to shop for a new plant friend, or stop by Karen’s Flower Shop in Milton and allow the friendly staff to help you select the perfect fresh green addition to your home.
Embrace the Cold Winter Weather: Explore Halton Conservation Parks
Winter hiking at Halton Conservation Area parks is a unique and rewarding outdoor experience. Despite the colder temperatures, these parks provide breathtaking views and serene landscapes that are enchanting and can help you appreciate the winter weather during the frosty months. The snow-covered trails create a picturesque setting, making it a perfect opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to explore the great outdoors. Halton Conservation area parks, such as Rattlesnake Point, Mount Nemo, and Crawford Lake, present well-maintained forest trails suitable for hikers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are various trail options and winter activities, each providing its own positive challenges and scenic beauty. Getting extra sunlight and fresh air can also significantly aid in uplifting your mood.
Stay tuned to our social media outlets for an upcoming feature on these lovely natural getaways this Winter.
Choosing Healthy Post-Holiday Eating Habits - Visit local fresh and whole food establishments.
After indulging in delicious festive treats during Christmas, it's an excellent time to refocus on eating healthy and nourishing foods throughout the winter. Embracing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help boost our immune system, maintain energy levels, and support overall well-being during the colder months. Opting for warming soups, stews, and roasted dishes can provide comfort and satisfaction while incorporating nutritious ingredients. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as it'skeeping our bodies hydrated during winter is just as important. By making mindful choices and being conscious of our nutritional intake, we can prioritize our health and thrive throughout the winter season. Be sure to check out a list of local healthy eateries in the region.
Your next delicious and healthy meal is at “The Chopped Leaf” - 840 Main Street E., Milton.
Keep In Touch and Stay Connected
During the January blahs, keeping in touch with friends is essential to lift spirits and maintain a sense of connection. Even though the post-holiday season might be dull or low-energy, reaching out to friends can bring joy and warmth to our days. Make an effort to reach out to friends and spend time in person, catching up and enjoying an experience together. Even a simple coffee date to catch up can make a difference. You might even pull a friend or family member out of their case of winter blues in the process. Many of the above activities and adventures can be enjoyed with a friend, a family member, or a group!
Stay tuned to our social media and blog posts for ongoing updates, features and experiences all year 'round.
Follow us on Instagram, where we update you every week on the best things to do in the Halton Region with the kids in the Town Of Milton, Burlington and Oakville.