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Beat winter blahs

It’s that time of year when winter has been dragging on, and summer still feels so far away. It’d be great to whisk away to the Caribbean for a bit – but what college student has enough time off (or cash left) to do that? Don’t fret though. There are ways to beat the January blahs that won’t dig into your bank account.

Start a new workout routine
You don’t need to wait until summer to break a sweat. Whether you made it a New Year’s resolution or not, adding exercise into your lifestyle will fill you with endorphins and give you a hot summer bod early. Make it a mission to head to the gym more. Or, to simulate summer heat, take up hot yoga — you’ll sweat out toxins, and gain muscle tone and strength. Check out the winter fitness schedule for Campus Recreation at WesternMustangs.ca. Or drop by a community class at Moksha Yoga, located at the corner of Richmond Street and Mill Street – their schedule is online too at MokshaYogaLondon.com.

Embrace the cold
The snow is here to stay – for a little while longer, at least. Rent some ice skates and head to the ice rink downtown in Victoria Park for a fun group outing or a romantic date. Skiing and snowboarding are another fun way to enjoy the snow, so head to nearby Boler Mountain for a day on the slopes – you can find prices and specials at BolerMountain.com. Or explore the outdoors by hiking or snowshoeing. Free group hikes happen along the Thames Valley Trail on Saturday mornings, with full details at ThamesValleyTrail.org.

Have a weekend getaway
We can’t all head to Hawaii – but who says you need to fly to take a vacation? A weekend getaway to a nearby city can be just the ticket to give you a change of scenery. Head to Toronto with friends for a shopping trip or to catch a sports game – the VIA train will take you right into the heart of the city. Or make it a weekend for two and have a romantic dinner or spa day in Niagara Falls or Buffalo.

Enjoy a “staycation”
Can’t leave London? Why not figure out something fun to do in the city? Londonlicious is the perfect avenue for trying out new restaurants, with major discounts throughout the city – the event runs until Feb. 6, and you can see the set-price menus online at Londonlicious.ca. Or stroll through somewhere you’ve never been. Covent Garden Market on King Street is absolutely charming and open all weekend. They even have cooking classes and other fun activities you can see at CoventMarket.ca. And if you want to check out local artists, the Arts Project gallery on Dundas Street is open from 12 to 5 p.m. every Saturday. Planning new outings like these will give your weekend a fresh spin and help shake up your winter routine.

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