The pattering of rain hits your window. It’s Saturday morning. You had grandiose plans for outdoor activities, all of which were thwarted by the weather. Welcome to Oregon during winter. You’re stuck inside, and you’re feeling stuck about how to enjoy a rainy day in. “I’ve already baked a million cookies and watched all of the shows,” you may say. “What can I do to entertain myself?”

Here are 3 fun ways to spice up your day while cooped up your wonderful home. Choose one, or make it a full-day and do all of the below!

GET CRAFTY

As we spend more time indoors during the winter, it can be challenging to keep things interesting. Especially this year, when we’ve already exhausted our usual options 6 months ago. Simple crafts can bring a smile to your face, and eat up an hour or so. If you have children, it can be a great way to bond and break up the daily routine. It doesn’t have to be a big production— use some old toilet paper rolls, some glue, and cotton balls, and a little imagination. Boom! Little sheep. Visit this link to a wonderful website with creative and fun crafts for littles and adults alike. 

https://entertainyourtoddler.com/cotton-ball-sheep-crafts-for-kids/ 

Older Kids? This project allows for lots of creativity, and you end  up with some pretty fantastic art. I did one at my house with my 6 year old, and we still have it in our window.

https://www.isavea2z.com/paper-craft-idea-how-to-make-your-stained-glass-window/ 

For those without children with which to craft, there a lots of crafty resources. Consider getting a group of friends together (be it safely in-person or digitally) to have semi-regular crafting nights, or resurrect the old-fashioned sewing bee. Crafting can be a fantastic way to give yourself focus, stimulate the brain, and create functional gifts for you and your loved ones. New to art and crafting? Try a paint-by-number kit or adult coloring books for something a little more structured.

SKIN CARE SPA DAY

Cold weather can make skin feel a bit dull and dry. With the power of a sugar scrub and emollient lotion, skin can have that healthy glow once more. But it doesn’t take a facial appointment to get these results (although we highly encourage facials at least once a season for maximum benefit). Luxuriate in the comfort of your own home— all it takes are some supplies.

If you want to DIY, check out this article on Homespun Face Masks. They’re fun and a tad messy, and make your skin feel great. I like pairing this with a coconut oil and sugar scrub from the kitchen. 
Not feeling a messy kitchen project? Check out our shop for some amazing custom crafted products that will leave you saying, “Ahhhhhhhh.” From sugar scrubs to moisturizers, there’s a little something for everyone.

MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT

Some of my favorite ways to fill a rainy day is to feed all parts of myself— Mind, Body, and Spirit. This approach to self-care focuses on each part to achieve a well-balanced life. You don’t need to set a whole hour aside for each portion— 5 to 10 minutes each is enough. Here is my recommended agenda for a holistic self-care day.

First, I suggest going to Youtube and search for any movement that gets your heart pumping; 30-Minute HIIT Cardio, 20 Minutes of Gentle Yoga, or even just a playlist of your favorite jams to dance around the house to. This is a great way to clear the cobwebs and get some fidgety energy out, even when the rain is keeping you indoors.

Next, cook something you love. A favorite in our home are Dutch Babies. Quick, easy, and yummy. Whatever delicious thing you feel like you don’t have time to make that you have really been craving. I find those meals to be especially delicious. You could also focus on cooking something really healthy for yourself, full of colorful veggies and other organic ingredients. Whatever speaks to you in the moment.

Take a hot bath while watching a movie or feel-good show. There’s something delightful about creating a temporary oasis. Consider lighting some candles, sipping tea, or enjoying a bath bomb. Let you body and mind unwind. Not a film or tv fan? Reading or listening to an audiobook are excellent alternatives that engage your brain and provide a little well-deserved escapism.

Write. Journal. Make a Gratitude List. Scribble some stream-of-consciousness thoughts. Magic happens when when get things on paper. You can feel lighter, clearer, and more peaceful when the troublesome thoughts that were swirling around are put to paper. I try to write for anywhere between 5 and 30 minutes, depending on what needs to work its way out. 

Finally, end with a mini guided meditation, or simply allow yourself to lie or sit in silence. Often times we find silence to be uncomfortable, but profound care can be found when we allow it to happen. Finish with some gentle stretching and enjoy the deep nurturing you have just gifted yourself.  May this support you and yours in having a wonderful rainy day in. And remember, take your Vitamin D, and the sun will be back eventually.

Be well,

Lily Lunneman