Editor’s note: Originally published January 3, 2022.

This story is brought to you by Live in Everett Member Juanita "Nita" Dawson LMT/MMT

When winter rolls around it’s all too easy to post up on the couch and let the Netflix roll on infinitely. Which, to be clear, is totally fine. But, if you’re like me, sitting around the house can lead to a serious case of the blahs. And that’s putting it lightly. By ”blahs” I mean irrational, stir-crazy anxiety. 

Here’s the good news. Exercise is a proven way to get endorphins and boost your mood. I find exercise, yes even outdoor exercise, is critical for my mental health in winter.

Here are some of the best ways to get moving during the darkest, rainiest, coldest part of the year.

Indoor workouts

Ok, you don’t do the outdoors. Maybe try the great indoors?

Join the YMCA or a private gym to get a workout in. Gym memberships can be pricey. It pays to wait until January when most gyms offer discounted memberships as an incentive for folks with New Year’s resolutions.

If getting out of the house gives you the Covid-heebie-jeebies or simply isn’t in your budget, try investing in some home workout equipment. It’s generally available for a steal on Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp, where old New Year’s resolutions go to get a second life.

Ice skating

Angel of the Winds Arena offers public ice skating at their Community Ice Rink. It’s only a small fee to skate, so you can get you and a couple buddies out on the ice for cheap. Ice skating is a great way to get your heart rate up and can be quite the romantic plot point from what I have seen on Hallmark Christmas movies.

Public spaces

I’m a stubborn native-PNW-son-of-a-gun, so I don’t mind getting outside in the rain and cold. The thing to do is layer up and wear waterproof clothing and shoes. I take my kids to public parks in the winter – the cold air is stimulating and invigorating, and there’s less competition for the slides.

Don’t underestimate the power of a good walk. Just 20 minutes outside is scientifically proven to boost your mental and physical health. This was a big lesson I learned during Covid quarantine. If I’m stuck on a project or am feeling lethargic or overhyped and anxious, a lap around the block (or two) can cover a multitude of mental health sins.

Skiing and Snowshoeing

Follow State Route 2 east out of town for about an hour and you’ll arrive at Stevens Pass. It’s a full-on ski park with plenty of downhill routes and even night skiing. Stevens Pass also offers Nordic skiing (aka cross-country skiing) routes, led by Forest Rangers.

Snowshoeing is also a relatively affordable pastime. Get a pair of snowshoes (again, pretty cheap on the secondhand internet marketplace) and you can explore the outer reaches of SR2 and the Mountain Loop Highway on foot. Bring your camera.

Find what works for you

The above ideas are my best bets for winter exercise. But maybe your thing is different. Maybe you’re the type to bike to work in any weather – snowfall be damned. One day you decide to do some light YouTube yoga and walk to the grocery store instead of driving six blocks.

Whatever works for you, do that thing. 

Take good care of yourself this winter. Several dark months of constant rain can be hard. Give yourself a break with a little get up and go. Your brain will thank you.

And to add even more health to your life, consider booking a massage with Juanita "Nita" Dawson LMT/MMT. Thanks to nita for powering this story!

Richard Porter is a writer for Live in Everett.