Winter Wellness Activities in Philadelphia
It’s that time of year where the days feel colder and darker, and the excitement of the holiday season is behind us. It can be tempting during the winter months to stay inside, as motivation and mood can often decline during this time of year. One technique we know to be helpful in improving mood is called “activity scheduling”, which involves regularly engaging in pleasant activities to help elevate mood. We’ve included our bucket list below of the wellness activities to try this winter, along with their mental/physical health benefits, local to Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs!
1. Infrared Sauna
Research studies highlight the positive benefits of frequent sauna for both physical and mental health including improved circulation, pain relief, and relaxation. Another perk is that infrared sauna use can help combat against the common cold—a bonus as we’re in the thick of cold and flu season!
DtXfy Infrared Sauna Studio offers packages (including other treatments like red light therapy and massage) at their locations in Philadelphia and Wayne, PA
2. DIY
Callowhill Greens is a plant-based skincare and wellness café. They offer healthy smoothies, teas, wellness eliquors and more. Or, sign up for their “Skincare and Sip” series where you can participate in an interactive workshop to create personalized skincare items. Wellness from the inside, out!
3. Cooking class
Whether a date night, day with a friend, or family outing, taking a cooking class can be a novel experience to try this winter. Often conducted in group format, these classes can provide socialization, encourage creativity and more!
Hudson Table has upcoming classes that include handmade pasta, couples night out: tacos, Valentine’s Day family sugar cookie decorating, and more!
4. Walking
This might be the most under-rated mood booster ever. We know….it’s cold outside. But bundle up and join “Philly Girls Who Walk” (@phillygirlswhowalk). This inclusive community offers the opportunity to connect with existing friends, or meet new ones, and take low-key walks around the city.
Upcoming walks this month include meet ups at the following locations: Race Street Pier, The Art Museum, Washington Square West.
5. Candle Making
Ever wonder why it’s so relaxing or comforting to have a candle burning? To understand the soothing effect of a scented candle, we turn to the limbic system. This is the part of the brain that processes and regulates emotion and memory. Particular fragrances/scents can affect levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin (aka the “happy hormones”). For an energizing feeling try citrus scents, or for relaxation, reach for lavender.
Wax & Wine offers the experience of creating customized candles with over 50 scents. Bonus, you get to bring your own snacks and bevs.
6. Hot Yoga
The best of both worlds, warm up from the cold and incorporate some movement. Benefits of hot yoga in particular include stress reduction, improved strength, and flexibility.
Hotbox Yoga has locations in Philadelphia and Ambler