ASPEN– Now that summer is over, the quick descent into the darkest and coldest months of the year begins. While this time brings a new range of activities like skiing and skating, I’m still not convinced that those are worth the months of being frozen. There is always a chance that this year we will be blessed with an eternal summer, but after seeing the snow on the top of the mountains on my drive to school recently, I am starting to lose hope. Whether you like it or not, winter is coming and if you are like my family who would rather tough it out during the winter than turning up the thermostat, you may want to start preparing.

Stock Up

There is nothing better than snuggling up during the winter with blankets and hot chocolate and nothing worse than finding yourself without them when the temperature drops into the teens. In order to begin preparing you are going to need to stock up on the basics. That means an ample amount of hot chocolate and tea packets, at least two fuzzy blankets and socks, and every oversized sweater you can find.

Stay Active

Maybe it’s the temperature, or the lack of sun, or all the layers of clothes needed to venture outside, but I find it extremely difficult to motivate myself to work out. It always seem easier to remain in the safety and warmth of my bed but it is very important to get active during the winter. Studies have shown that working out helps to improve mood and overall well being which are especially important when the sun doesn’t shine.

Get Invested in a Hobby

During the winter it is super easy to default to binge watching shows on netflix but unless you are able to do something a little more valuable with your time, these few months are going to drag on forever. Like I mentioned earlier forcing yourself to get out of bed is key to surviving the winter. Finding a small hobby to occupy yourself can be great and since going outside isn’t always an option, it is time to explore all the small activities you never thought you had time for. So get creative and try things from cooking to all things artistic, and in the end who knows what new hobby you might find.