Winter in the Hudson Valley offers some time for nesting and hygge and good things to eat and read. It can also feel a bit long, with its erratic weather and chilly slogging about. There are a myriad of activities and wellness spaces to take advantage of during these cold months. Here are some of our absolute favorite ways to take good care and beat cabin fever through the darker season.
love your bod
Hit a health food store and stock up on good clean food—nuts and berries for snacking and root veggies for soup.
Experiment with recipes. There’s nothing like the smell of something tasty cooking.
Get some amazing aromatherapy products for your indoor air.
Get a massage. We’re blessed with an abundance of talented bodyworkers who will leave you feeling lighter than air.
center down
Meditate. There are many monasteries and ashrams in the region, or you can even find a guided mindfulness meditation on YouTube.
Make a shrine in your home to focus on, with objects and colors that bring comfort and inspiration.
Try floating. People rave about the feelings of relaxation, well-being, and inspiration that flotation therapy can bring.
Retreat. There are some wonderful spas and retreat centers nearby where you can spend a few days soaking up tranquility. A retreat center staycation can be more relaxing than flying off someplace far away, and it’s plenty warm in that hot tub.
move around
Join a gym or the Y, or pick up a movement class at your local community or yoga center.
Pull some layers on and hit the nearest rail trail right after it stops snowing.
Find out when there’s a good funky blues band playing nearby and go dance till you’re ready to drop.
live it up
Go see a live performance and chase it with the perfect cold-weather craft beverage.
Treat yourself to one fresh décor piece, maybe a pop of color from a local painter or the perfect hand-knit throw.
Do something with your hands. Play with clay or fiber or paint, just for fun.
Get a few people together for some snow tubing or ice skating, and follow up with a fresh-out-of-the-wood-oven pizza.
