Here at FX Express headquarters, this winter has, overall, been pretty mild. Last week we had temperatures rise into the 60s over the weekend, and the mild weather hung around for a few extra days.

It’s days like today, where the temperature was 17 degrees well into the morning, that winter feels like it is dragging on forever. On days like this it takes real preparation to get outside and enjoy nature. Hikes and walks go from potentially spur-of-the-moment activities to something you need to plan for. Less sunlight leads to less vitamin D, which can lead to seasonal affective disorder.

ID 127843272 © Viorel Margineanu | Dreamstime.com

Just because it is tough to get outside doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make the effort. Personally, I don’t mind bundling up, putting on a hat and coat and venturing out for an adventure.

If the cold weather isn’t your cup of tea but you just need to get out of the house, there are plenty of things you can do and things I have done this year and in the past to pass the time. Depending on your mood, going to a local mall and walking around while window shopping can be fun. If you have a group, consider going to the local bowling alley for a few hours. The ones near me let guests request music on certain hours of the weekend, so it turns into a fun place to hang out with a group.

Zoos can be a tough sell in the winter, but aquariums are largely inside and can be pretty fun to visit. In the same vein, check out local museums to learn something in the long, dark months of winter.

Cold weather doesn’t need to mean you’re restricted to your home. Make an effort to keep active in the cold months, and it will be spring before you know it.

— Erich Martin, assistant editor