The weekend has arrived, and you couldn’t be more excited about your plans until you draw your shades only to discover those highly anticipated plans are going to have to change. It’s raining cats and dogs and there is no sign things will let up.
It is no fun to have the beast of bad weather throw a wrench in your plans, but try not to fret. There are plenty of things to do indoors on a rainy day.
Read a Book
Between the demands of work and the distractions smartphones throw our way, it can be difficult for avid readers to find time to, well, read. If you have recently thought or complained about how you don’t have enough time to read, spend your next rained-in day cozied up somewhere in your apartment, buried in a book. It’s usually easier to read cuddled up alone than it is in a beautiful outdoor setting anyway.
If you are an aspiring writer who feels you don’t have enough time to write for fun, work on some poetry, short stories, or whatever it is you like to write about. The pitter patter of the rain and shadow cast by the clouds may be just the inspiration you need to start the next Great American Novel.
Cook or Bake
Sure, you may prepare your own dinner five nights a week. But when was the last time that dinner included three courses, or one of those recipes you’ve been bookmarking online or ripping out of magazines? If you have an innate love for cooking but don’t generally have much free time for involved, time-consuming recipes, explore this passion on your next day off. If you are feeling social, invite friends over to your apartment for a rainy day gourmet dinner party.
If you’re not up for cooking a gourmet meal, bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies. There’s just something about a soft, home-made cookie on a rainy day.
Watch a Movie
If you don’t feel like exerting the energy it takes to read an epic novel, color a canvas with paint, or prepare a meal of sous chef proportions, kick back and watch a movie or three. Go to the theater for the latest release, watch one of your favorites at home, or binge watch a TV show you and your friends or significant other have been talking about checking out for awhile.
Pamper Yourself
There’s no time like a rainy day to pamper yourself, whether it’s in your apartment or at a spa. If you want to stay home, make your own bubble bath. Apartment Therapy suggests using Dr. Bonner’s lavender liquid castile soap. You can layer the lavender scent with peppermint or eucalyptus.
If you decide to go the spa route, look for specials if you can’t splurge on a day of pampering. A massage, manicure, pedicure, or a facial can make you feel good and relaxed. Just because you can’ splurge, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t indulge yourself.
There are hundreds of ways you can make the most of a rainy day. If none of these ideas appeals to you, think about hobbies and interests you have that can be indulged in even when the weather outside is poor. Remember: Rain can only put a damper on your day if you let it.
What is your favorite way to spend a rainy day?
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst