Ten Ways to Staycation this Winter
Late February is about that time when most of us start to feel a little stir-crazy. The freshness of January has worn off, along with your resolve (Whole 30 diet? What Whole 30 diet?). The days are getting slightly longer, but the temps are still begging you to stay indoors. And even when the thermometer does inch up slightly, it comes with a side of downpour. You’re dying to fly south and soak up the sun, even if just for a long weekend. But alas...you’re still here.
If a getaway isn’t in the cards for you this spring, or even if it is but it seems so far away, don’t fret! There are still ways to feel like you’ve been transported to remote island or luxurious vacation home. And bonus: they won’t derail your spending resolutions. Read on!
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Visit your local indoor pool / aquatic center. Swimming laps, splashing around in the lazy river or kid’s zone, or relaxing in the hot tub will make you feel like you’re at a hotel or spa, minus the need for sunscreen every hour!
- Put on your apron and cook up a summery meal - one that you would normally have in July! Fire up the grill for burgers or make fish tacos with all the fixin’s. Popsicles for dessert!
- And while you’re at it - stir up some summer cocktails! Who says mojitos and margaritas are just for warm months? Or buy a six-pack of your favorite summer beer.
- Think of your favorite spring or summer activity - relaxing at the beach, planting flowers, or cooking with fresh herbs. Then scent your home the same fresh, floral, and herby fragrances to instantly take you to that happy place. Candles, room sprays, and reed diffusers and all wonderful ways to capture your scenes and transform your space.
- Put a stack of “beach reads” - you know, the lighthearted books you normally save for the time when you are at your most relaxed - on your nightstand or coffee table, and commit to reading at least one this winter.
- Listen to your favorite “summer tunes” while cleaning the house or making dinner. You know, the catchy pop songs that take you back to when summer felt endless?! Will Smith’s “Miami” is a favorite of ours!
- Grab your girlfriends or your children and get out of the house! Visit The Candle Lab to create your own custom scent that reminds you of spring and summer (tomato leaf and basil, anyone?!), then pour-your-own candle or body lotion. While the candles are cooling, grab chips and guac with the ladies, or take the kids for ice cream.
- Visit a botanical garden. Most cities have one, and the humidity and warmth mixed with the gorgeous flora and fauna will take you to a place far, far away.
- Book yourself a massage or a pedicure. Spa-like treatments aren’t just for fancy resorts! In fact, with the money you’ll save at a regular salon you might as well treat yourself to both.
- When all else fails...go shopping! Even just looking at spring clothes can make you feel excited. Allow yourself one spring-ish top or a new purse, and wear or use it right away. Sometimes a change of dress is all you need!