By Karen Preskenis Perrin, wellness coach
Winter Fun, Inside and Out
It can be easy in midwinter to get caught thinking of this time as being cold, damp, and dark. As we focus this January on physical well-being, we may want to stretch ourselves to think in broader ways about what is available to enjoy – both inside and outdoors.
Our invitation to you is to try something new as we start the new year. Play, laugh, connect with friends and family, and make some memories as you take care of your body.
Indoors
- Indoor obstacle course: What furniture can you move around to create a safe course that you navigate on your knees?
- Competitions: How long can you… hold a plank? Stand on one leg? Do the most jumping jacks?
- Dance party: Put on favorite music, put out some healthy snacks, and move around your living room to fun tunes.
- Charades: Let everyone guess who or what you are, choosing from themes such as favorite animals, movies or book characters.
- The game “Twister”: This game is fun for the whole family. If you have trouble moving your body to play this one, be the person who spins the wheel and call the colors. Stretch your body as your friends or family members move around the board.
- Search for games online: The internet has many ideas for movement and games. Look for ones that make you laugh and keep you and your friends and family members moving in a healthy and fun way.
Outdoors
- Scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt with clues around your yard or in a local park or natural area. Have prizes and healthy snacks for everyone to enjoy at the end.
- Ice skating: If you live in an area with an outdoor ice skating rink, this is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the beauty of winter.
- Skiing, snowboarding, or winter hiking: Find a mountain nearby and put on skies, a snowboard, or winter hiking boots and enjoy the snow.
Places to visit in the Rogue Valley:
If you live in Southern Oregon, visit any of these places and enjoy focusing on your physical health and having fun at the same time.
Mount Ashland: Drive up and ski or snowboard or bring your sled and play on the “back side” of the mountain. The backside is accessed at the far end of the ski lodge parking lot. Bring lunch and build a snowman. You will need a day pass if you park at the ski parking lot. These can be purchased when you arrive or can be picked-up at the Ashland Bi-Mart. (Bring your car tire chains if you go, as the road conditions can change quickly.) www.mtashland.com
Rogue Rock Gym: Enjoy climbing, bouldering, and balancing in this indoor climbing gym which is open for all ages and all skill levels. 3001 Samike Drive, Suite 104, Medford. 541-245-2665. www.roguerockgym.com
Ashland Outdoor Rink: Winter wonderland is in Ashland at this outdoor ice skating rink. Visit the website for rink schedule and details. ashland.or.us/IceRink
Lava Lanes: Saturday night at this bowling alley includes “Cosmic Bowling” with music and special effects lighting, but you can enjoy playing here all week long. 2980 Crater Lake Hwy, Medford. 245-2755-2980. http://www.lavalanes.com/
ROXY ANN LANES This bowling alley is open most days and includes a snack bar. 2375 S. Pacific Hwy, Medford. 541-772-7171. http://roxyannlanes.com/
Tip: Dress warmly when you go outside, and make sure children have what they need to stay comfortable and dry in wet, snowy weather. Bring water and healthy snacks and enjoy the winter gifts of nature.