Simple Ways to Stay Active Indoors This Winter
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Embracing the beauty of a snowy winter morning—because even the coldest days can spark joy and inspiration to keep moving.
Greetings from snowy Germany! This morning, I woke up to a magical blanket of snow covering everything outside. While it’s beautiful to look at, the chilly weather makes me want to curl up with a warm cup of tea and a cozy blanket. But staying active is just as important in winter as any other time of year, especially for our energy levels, flexibility, and overall wellness.
If you’re like me and prefer the warmth of your home during these cold months, here are some simple, beginner-friendly ways to stay active indoors this winter.
Finding warmth and balance on the mat this winter—because staying active indoors can be just as grounding and rejuvenating.
1. Start Your Day with a Gentle Yoga Flow
Yoga is one of my favorite ways to ease into the day, especially when it’s cold outside. A simple sun salutation sequence warms up the body and calms the mind. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Mountain Pose: Stand tall, arms at your sides, and focus on your breath.
Forward Fold: Gently bend forward, letting your head hang heavy.
Plank Pose: Step back into a plank, engaging your core.
Downward Dog: Lift your hips to form an inverted V-shape.
Return to Standing: Walk your feet back toward your hands and slowly rise.
💡 Tip: Do this sequence 5–10 times for a full-body stretch. If you’re new to yoga, this eco-friendly yoga mat has been my go-to for years—it’s supportive and durable, even on hardwood floors. Pair it with this video for a clear and easy introduction to a gentle morning yoga routine.
2. Try a Pilates Routine for Core Strength
Pilates is my go-to for building strength and improving posture—something we can all benefit from, especially after hours of sitting indoors. Here’s an easy move to try:
The Hundred:
Lie on your back with your legs in a tabletop position.
Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the mat.
Extend your arms alongside your body, hovering above the floor.
Pump your arms up and down as you inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts.
Repeat for a total of 100 counts.
💡 Tip: Modify by keeping your head on the mat if needed. To enhance your Pilates practice, I recommend these resistance bands. They’re perfect for adding extra challenge to your moves without taking up much space.
3. Dance Like Nobody’s Watching
Who says workouts have to feel like work? Put on your favorite playlist and dance around the living room! It’s a fun way to boost your mood, get your heart rate up, and even involve the whole family. One of my favorite songs to dance to lately is "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart" by Taylor Swift. This song resonates deeply with me because it speaks to the resilience we find in ourselves after experiencing something that leaves us physically, mentally, and emotionally devastated. It reminds me that even in the hardest moments, we can still move forward, find strength, and maybe even dance through the pain as we heal.
💡 Tip: Use this Bluetooth speaker to fill your space with crisp, energizing sound. It makes dancing even more fun!
Nothing says cozy winter vibes like a warm cup of tea. Stay warm, stay active, and enjoy the little moments.
4. Take Micro-Movement Breaks
If you’re busy working or managing household tasks, sprinkle in small movement breaks throughout your day. A few ideas:
Do 10 squats while waiting for the kettle to boil.
Stretch your arms and shoulders between emails.
March in place during your favorite TV show’s commercial breaks.
These tiny bursts of movement add up and keep your body from feeling stiff.
💡 Tip: Track your steps and keep yourself motivated with this fitness tracker. It’s a great way to see how even small movements add up.
5. Practice Breathing Exercises
Staying active isn’t just about moving your body—it’s also about engaging your mind. Simple breathing exercises can improve your focus and reduce stress. One of my favorites is the 4-7-8 technique:
Inhale through your nose for 4 counts.
Hold your breath for 7 counts.
Exhale through your mouth for 8 counts.
Repeat this cycle 4–5 times. To create a calming atmosphere, I love using this essential oil diffuser with a relaxing lavender blend.
Winter Wellness: A Personal Note
On snowy days like today, it’s tempting to stay still, but our bodies are meant to move, and even a little activity can make a huge difference in how we feel. I love that these activities are beginner-friendly, don’t require fancy equipment, and can be done in the comfort of your home. Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, or a spontaneous dance party, let’s honor our need for movement and embrace this season while staying active and warm.
I’d love to hear from you—what’s your favorite way to stay active indoors during winter? Let’s inspire each other to stay moving, even when it’s chilly outside. Stay warm and well!
With gratitude,
Diana
