These Fun Winter Activities Are Guaranteed to Beat the Cold-Weather Blues

Make your winter day a little sweeter with a batch of freshly baked cookies. It’s a great way to spend some time with friends and family. Want a recipe rec? We're very partial to these chewy chocolate-walnut cookies.

You’ve seen those super thick knit blankets that everyone has perched on their couch. Well, why not kill some time on a snowy afternoon and learn how to knit your own? It makes a thoughtful gift, too! Snuggling never felt so good.

When it’s too cold to venture outside, unleash your inner child and build a cozy pillow fort with your partner or kids. Play with your little ones or simply catch up on a couple hours of sleep. Just get inside the fort with one of these weighted blankets and snooze away.

The best way to warm up on a chilly winter day? Sip on a cozy cup of hot cocoa. This frothy hot chocolate recipe will do just the trick and swaps out refined sugar for maple syrup—a delicious, yet festive, alternative.

There are plenty of adorable cabins to escape to during the colder months. Plus, a vacation may be exactly what you need—especially if your mental health tends to take a dip during the winter.

Belt out your favorite Christmas carols from Deck the Halls to Jingle Bells for a healthy dose of childhood nostalgia. Not only will you remember the good ol' days in your hometown, but singing will also unlock happy endorphins that'll put you in a great mood.

Think about it: Do you even know what your friends' handwriting looks like anymore? Getting an old fashioned piece of snail mail among all the bills will be a welcome surprise for them, and the act of writing a quick hello will feel refreshing to you. Bonus points if there's a kid around to add a cute scribble.

Cuddle up by the fire with a few friends and some warm blankets for an outdoor experience that's as magical as it is cozy. All you need is some light hot chocolate and maybe skewers lined with marshmallows for s'mores. Just add some raspberries and dark chocolate for a healthier version of the classic.

The best thing after a heavy snow? The opportunity to get the whole family outside for a day of sledding! Hiking up and down those hills will give you a workout akin to a step climber and the rush of whooshing to the end of the slope will certainly create a day full of laughs.

If you're feeling adventurous and want to try something completely out of your element, give ice fishing a go. There are several ice fishing spots all over the country (even in New York!) that'll curb your sense of wander and give you the freshest fillet you've had in years.

It’s time to dust off those skis in the garage. You’ll take in great views, sneak in some cardio, laugh as you fall with friends, and finish off the day with a warm meal. What more could you ask for on a beautiful winter day?

If you’re someone who is always cold, winter isn’t really the most enjoyable time of the year. But your meals can make all the difference here, so warm up with a hearty bowl of protein-packed chili or one of these slow-cooker soup recipes to make weeknight dinners more simple.

Head to your favorite nook in the house and delve into a book that’s been on your list forever. You’ll enjoy this peaceful time to yourself during one of the busiest seasons. Need some recommendations? Check out these anti-racism books that'll open your eyes to social injustice and inequality.

Avoid the colder temps by adding some holiday spirit to your home. Anything goes, especially if you have a life-long tradition you’ve done with your family. Studies suggest that putting up your holiday decorations actually makes you happier, since you associate them with childhood and excitement.

Spend more time with your partner, a family member, or your best friend by making hot apple cider and doing an activity you love together, like playing a certain game, baking, or heading out shopping. Not exactly apple cider vinegar, but definitely more delicious.

Don’t abandon your workout just because the seasons have changed. A winter run might be just what you need to de-stress. But before you hit the snowy trail, avoid catching the flu or a cold by bundling up in the right cold weather gear.

In a winter slump? Remedy your mood by lighting a soothing winter candle. Fragrance has a huge impact on your mood, and research shows the right scent may make you feel happier and less stressed.

After a day of outdoor activities, spend the evening huddled together with a warm blanket and your favorite holiday movies. Make it even more fun by whipping up these no-bake, low sugar holiday treats to snack on throughout the night.

Looking for something artistic to do? Have everyone get creative by hosting a gingerbread house competition. Make sure to bake some gingerbread people to live inside.

It’s always the right season to give back, so check your pantry for your canned foods to donate. Or, take some time to head over to your local soup kitchen to serve—you’ll feel even more gratitude helping out.