As much as I love the sunshine, there is something special about rainy days. It’s a good time to stay inside and get things done that we may be neglecting. Whether it’s catching up on things around the house, or completing a creative project, it’s a unique opportunity to stay inside and focus.
Rainy days are also a good time to relax and take in the present moment. Take advantage of the calmness that comes with gloomy weather. You can spend time with your family, listen to music, or curl up with a warm blanket and a good book.
Whatever you decide to do, recognize that taking time for yourself is just as important as completing projects. Make the most of your free time and take advantage of the opportunity for both productivity and relaxation.
Here are some activities for adults to do the next time the storm clouds roll in!
1. Organize the house
Rainy days are a good time to tackle tasks around the home that need your attention. Catch up on laundry, organize the pantry, clean out the fridge, or vacuum the closets. Then, open the windows for some of that fresh rain-scented air!
2. Catch up on reading
Rainy weather is the perfect time to get lost in a good story or catch up on reading. Does anything say cozy like a warm blanket while the rain taps on the windows? I think not.
3. Cook or bake something new
Use your time indoors to experiment with a new recipe. Whip out an old cookbook, or check out a unique recipe online. Maybe trying baking a fresh loaf of bread. It’s easier than you think.
4. Play board games
Gather the family together, or your significant other, and have some friendly competition. Board games are a great way to bond and spend time together without staring at a screen.
5. Work on a puzzle
Jigsaw puzzles or challenging brainteasers are a fun way to spend the rainy afternoon, either by yourself or with the family.
6. Have a movie marathon
Movies are a bit of a time commitment and it can be difficult to carve out the time to watch them. Next time a rainy day strikes, queue up the flicks you’ve been meaning to watch and just haven’t gotten around to it.
7. Do yoga
Yoga, or any light stretching, is an instant way to feel rejuvenated and relaxed. If a rainy day strikes, check out YouTube for some free yoga classes and get moving.
8. Go for a walk outside
Put on your raincoat and explore the outdoors. Or, put on your rainboots and splash in puddles with the kids. The air smells extra fresh when it’s raining, and the sound is very soothing and relaxing.
9. Get creative
Work on a craft project, paint a picture, or get busy with a new DIY project. If there is something you’ve been putting off for some time, this rainy day is the perfect time to tackle it and unleash your creativity.
10. Catch up on sleep
There’s nothing wrong with taking a day to catch up on some rest. If the rain has you feeling sleepy, you’re not alone. Cozy up and take a nap.
11. Make a scrapbook or photo album
Sorting through old photos take a lot of time. It’s a great rainy day activity that’s also a nice trip down memory lane. Organize old family photos or make a scrapbook for a loved one.
12. Take an online course
There are lots of free online courses online, and some that are paid and really affordable. If you’re stuck inside, it’s a good time to learn about something new. Check out Udemy for some online courses that may interest you.
13. Plan your next vacation
Even if you can’t be out in the sunshine, you can dream about it. Plan your next getaway and get excited about your future plans.
14. Play virtual games or video games
The great thing about virtual games is we can play with friends or family that live far away. If you’re stuck inside in the rain, fire up some games, or play with your family on the couch.
15. Catch up on online shopping
I don’t know about you, but there is always a laundry list of things I need to purchase. New socks, tupperware, new curtains, you name it. Spend some time doing some online shopping the next time it rains.
16. Work on goal-setting
There is no time like the present for setting goals. Grab your journal and reflect on what you want to accomplish in the next few weeks, months, or years. Here are some areas of your life and ideas for goal-setting.
17. Go rock climbing
Indoor rock climbing is a ton of fun and a great way to get exercise. Check and see if there is an indoor rock climbing gym near you.
18. Rearrange your furniture
Sometimes, rearranging your furniture is the perfect way to refresh a room with minimal effort. Try placing your couch in a different position, or mix up where the dining room table goes. This is also a good opportunity to clean hard-to-reach areas.
19. Work on greeting cards
If there’s a holiday coming up, work on writing out your holiday cards. Or, make homemade cards that are a bit more special.
20. Go antiquing
Antique shops are a great place to visit on a rainy day. They’re always filled with unique treasures that you can’t find anywhere else. Check out your local antique shop and see what you can find.
21. Have a spa day at home
If you’re not up for visiting an actual spa, light some candles and treat yourself to a day of pampering at home. There’s no better time to take a self-care bath than a rainy day.
22. Clean out your closet
Rainy days are the perfect time to go through your old clothes and donate items you no longer wear, need, or want. As a general rule of thumb, get rid of anything you haven’t worn in the last year.
23. Play an instrument
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, rainy days are a nice time to practice playing music and improve your skills. It’s also a good way to unwind.
24. Sew or knit
If you have any clothes that need hemming, now is the time to do it. Or, if you have a half-completed knitting project in the works, why not finish the job on a rainy day?
25. Give your dog a bath
In the warmer months, we like to bathe our dog outside. But, if it’s raining, it’s a good time to give your furry friend a bath in the tub. Everyone loves a good-smelling clean pup.
26. Practice meditation
Meditation is a valuable practice that takes time to really master. Even if you’re new to meditation, it can be very relaxing and make a world of difference in relieving stress. Start out with just 10 minutes and see how it makes you feel.
27. Catch up with an old friend or family member
Talking on the phone has become a bit of a lost art with texting being so prevalent. Take some time during a rainy day to catch up with a loved one.
So, next time there’s a rainy day and you can’t enjoy the outdoors, what will you do to pass the time?
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