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It’s impossible to predict what the weather has in store – and it’s certainly no fun when you go for a casual jog and get stuck in a storm. One thing that does help is having the right kit to be wet weather ready.
Once the cold weather has set in, the novelty can start to wear off – after all, there’s a limit to how long we can get excited about layering up. So, how can we give our spirits and style a lift as the nights get shorter and the mornings chillier? Here are a few ideas.
1.Refresh your inner sanctum.
Chances are you’ll be spending more time indoors, so why not give the place a little change up? Rearrange your rooms to accommodate the weather (for example, move your yoga mat to a sunny nook), bring out the cosy throw rugs, invest in a new cushion for a pop of colour, or bring greenery into the house with some new houseplants or herbs on the kitchen counter. Lamps, candles and piles of books all help create a cosy vibe, too.
2. Pep up your playlist.
Speaking of vibe, when was the last time you mixed up your music (specifically your workout soundtrack)? We’re all guilty of getting stuck with the same artists and genres on repeat – but a new discovery can go a long way (even if it’s a new/old discovery, like throwback ‘80s jams, classic Beatles tunes, or a hit of Billie Holiday). Ask friends for suggestions, tune into the radio to hear what’s charting and test drive new Spotify selections. Maybe even invest in a new portable speaker so you can take your tunes to go.
3. Find a new crew.
Most of us need a bit of added motivation to stay active through the cooler months – and joining a team, club or program is a great way to get some. Maybe you sign up for midweek netball nights or commit to a regular dance class. Perhaps you get involved with your local Park Run, or give Pilates a try. You might even prefer to cheer on your chosen footy team from the sidelines with a cup of hot chocolate in hand. Whatever you do, chances are you’ll meet some likeminded people and have a lot of fun.
4. Plan an adventure.
A wise human called Alexander Chalmers once said: “The three grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, someone to love, and something to hope for.” Planning an adventure with someone you love is a great way to tick all three boxes – you just need to use your imagination and get a little bit organised. How about spending an afternoon brainstorming ideas, and working through them one by one? You could end up wandering art galleries, hiking national park trails, learning a martial art or volunteering at an animal shelter. Adventure is calling – see where it takes you!
5. Join the soupa league.
The change in weather can bring on coughs and colds, so why not boost your immunity with some healthy seasonal produce? Soup is the easiest, tastiest way to pack loads of nutrition into one meal, and it’s the perfect warm, fragrant antidote to long chilly days. From a cold-blasting chicken soup,to classic minestrone or DIY ramen, the options are endless. You can even match batches to freeze and reheat on those working-late weekday evenings.
6. Get into (winter-ready) gear.
These days, it’s impossible to predict what the weather has in store – and it’s certainly no fun when you go for a casual jog and get stuck in a storm. One thing that does help is having the right kit, especially for working out in wet weather. We love Macpac’s warm, weatherproof Sabre jackets and the Under Armour Storm Impasse running jacket – simply add to your quick drying base layers and you’re ready to go.
Even if it’s not raining cats and dogs, you can still look and feel good at the same time. We’re loving this cosy tracksuit set from Majestic, this statement bomber jacket, and this reversible number from Ell & Voo. These Lorna Jane pants are perfect for dancing round the house or dropping into the yoga studio, and for footwear, you can’t beat a pair of go-anywhere Nikes or pristine Pumas (on the days there aren’t too many puddles, anyway).