When the temperatures drop, especially in the colder parts of the country, that winter chill can be brutal. And while it can be tempting to stay indoors snuggled up with Netflix, we wanted to share some screen-free activities that would help inspire your creativity this winter.
1. Start a new book series
When talking about screen-free activities, the first thing that comes to mind is reading, naturally. But rather than struggling to read that dusty paperback on your nightstand, try starting a new fiction series, or grab a stack of books from an author you admire.
here are some books we’re loving:
2. Write, write, write
Writing can be a great way to get your creativity flowing. Try your hand at poetry, short stories, journal, or even letter writing. Anything to get your brain to connect pen to paper will help spark your creative energy.
3. Redecorate your space
And by redecorate, we don’t mean go out and buy a ton of new stuff. Rearrange furniture, declutter, swap out art, etc. Any little changes you can make throughout your space will not only get you thinking creatively, but will also help you feel reinvigorated by a change of scenery.
4. Coffee shop doodle
Grab a notebook, bring it to a coffee shop and literally just sit there and doodle wherever your mind takes you. Just start drawing and sketching without an agenda and let yourself see where you end up.
5. Take a nature walk
Depending on your weather conditions, of course. But if Mother Earth allows, take a leisurely nature walk and journal or photograph things that you see that spark your creative energy.
6. Play around with film
You can get a disposable camera, or invest in a more permanent one, but playing around with film is a great way to pass the time and also challenge your creativity. Get beyond the scope of iPhones and mirrorless cameras that can do all of the work and learn how to take cool, quirky film photos that speak to you.
7. Put on a record and have a dance party
Taylor is a big fan of this one with her family. Not only are you sparking creative energy through music and movement, but you’re also getting that blood flowing and releasing endorphins.
8. Cook something you know by heart
Challenge yourself to recall old family recipes that have been tucked away. If you don’t know any recipes by heart (grilled cheese doesn’t count), try a “kitchen sink” recipe. Survey the contents of your fridge and pantry and then get creative! Bake or cook something without any instructions and see what you come up with.
9. Make a vision board
No, not a Pinterest board, but a physical, real-life vision board. Find magazines, newspapers, mailers, and create a board that inspires you creatively. It could be a motivating vision board that boasts your big lifetime goals, or just an aesthetic moodboard that gets your creativity flowing.
10. Color something
Adult coloring books have become really popular as a source of relaxation and relieving anxiety. Grab yourself a fresh pack of Crayolas and a fun coloring book and just go to town.
11. Style your shelves
Try color-coordinating your bookshelves or style family photos on your shelves. It’s a good way to get you to look at the big picture and fill it in accordingly. If your shelves are already styled, try mixing it up. Instead of color-coordinating, remove all the jacket covers or flip the books around for a neutral, streamlined look.
12. Call a creative friend
Instead of texting the day away, set aside some time for an actual phone call. Chat about creative projects, bounce ideas off of them and share your progress. You never know what ideas might pop up during that conversation!
