Living in Canada leaves one with no option but to embrace winter. I live in one of the most mild regions of Canada; yet, we too have our fair share of winter. After a few weeks of the white stuff, one often feels like, okay, I had my fun in the snow…when’s spring?
I have developed 3 habits that I do weekly or sometimes even tri weekly. These 3 habits turn winter from something to endure into something magical to embrace. I hope my habits inspire you to come up with 3 of your own and if you don’t already love winter—there’s always next year!
Habit #1: Alpine Skiing at SilverStar
We drive up the mountain every Saturday. It has become an exciting ritual—like going to the cabin each weekend in the summer. I spend the entire day high in the alpine forests (the trees smell so good all year-long) surrounded by nothing but nature and physical thrills and challenges. Alpine skiing challenges me on every level: mind strength (to overcome real fears), physical strength, flexibility and endurance (to ski on the super cold days without loosing fingers and toes). I love SilverStar because it truly feels like “my mountain” now.
Habit #2: Downtown Skate
Skating outside, in the downtown core, is a great evening or weekend morning break. I try to get out at least once a week. A little exercise, a lot of fresh air and the social aspect of being downtown is a real mood booster.
Habit #3: Fitness Studio for Zumba and Yin Yoga.
I love to dance. I’d dance Zumba daily if I could (Oranj has let me down on this point—not nearly enough classes to satisfy this dancer); but, I take what I can get and spend several hours a week dancing and then one hour a week stretching with Yin Yoga. I love my yogi, Laura and Yin Yoga is the best. I lift weights and ski for strength and run and dance for cardio; so, with yoga I only want to stretch and that is what Yin Yoga is: stretching and meditative contemplation. It really helps heal many of my skiing and dance injuries.
The Zumba dance parties and calm (meditative) yoga sessions keep my mind happy and balanced all season long.
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