Winter Blues?

Here Are Feel-Good Ideas Across New Brunswick

Winter can be tough, but there’s a lot to enjoy if you lean into it. New Brunswick is full of outdoor winter fun (you can find plenty of ideas in our Winter in New Brunswick blog), but winter is also a great reason to slow down a bit.

Maybe read the book you’ve been meaning to start, try a new hobby, host a board game night or plan an indoor activity like bowling, karaoke, escape room...

We know that this season comes back every year, so let’s embrace it, make it fun, and enjoy it in the best way possible!

Cozy Winter Hobbies

Pictured: Demonstration pieces from Glass Roots Glassblowing Experience - Saint-John, NB

These cold, dark winter months are perfect for staying in and snuggling up.

Maybe you're a home body, and this means your perfect winter days looks like staying home, sipping a warm drink in your favourite cozy spot while relaxing with a good book or a more hands-on activity like knitting, pottery, clay, painting... Anything that keeps your hands busy and your mind calm.

But if you're feeling a little stir-crazy, but still want that same cozy feeling outside the house, we've got you covered.

Start with a cozy café moment - grab a warm drink, bring a book or meet a friend for a catch-up - then try a drop-in class, visit a DIY studio or paint an existant pottery. It's a fun way to spend quality time and leave with a beautiful piece and equally beautiful memories.

Fun Night: Trivia, Karaoke & Board games

Pictured: Board Games at Bistro-Moque Tortue - Shediac, NB

Sometimes all you need is a fun night.

Nothing big, nothing complicated, just a plan that gets everyone laughing. A trivia night, rounds of karaoke or a board game night can deliver it! You can do it at home or in town, both ideas are great. If you're going out, check out some of our favourite spots. Your only job is to show up, the fun happens from there.

No Weather Needed: Indoor Adventures Across New Brunswick

Pictured: Tactical Laser Tag Experience at Marco's Laser Tag - Moncton, NB

Want an easy plan that guarantees a good time (and no weather stress)?

Indoor adventures are the way to go. Bowling is a classic, laser tag is pure energy, and an escape room is the perfect teamwork challenge. It’s the kind of activity you’ll be talking about all week. Pick one activity, schedule your time and go!

Reset for Body & Mind: Self-Care + Movement

Pictured: A relaxing Outdoor Environment at La Belle Cabane - Kingston, NB

If winter has you feeling a little "blah" this is your reminder to be gentle with yourself.

If you’re tired, overwhelmed or just not in the mood for “doing a lot,” that’s okay. A spa visit, a massage, a thermal circuit or a yoga class can help you feel like yourself again.

And on the days when you need a boost, movement helps too. A gym session, a swim at an indoor pool or a spin class can warm you up, clear your head and help you sleep better. Pick what you need today: Rest and Relax or Move and Recharge. Either way, it counts and makes a difference.

Make Winter Easier on Yourself

Winter comes back every year, so we might as well make it easier on ourselves.

Cozy hobbies, a fun night out, an indoor adventure or a proper reset day are all great ideas.

Save this list, pick one idea for this week, and build from there.

Ps: If your winter blues feel heavy or persistent, help is available in New Brunswick: The free provincial Addiction and Mental Health Helpline is 1-866-355-5550. If you’re in crisis (or worried about someone), you can call or text 9-8-8 anytime.