We’ve all been there — snuggled up on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, scrolling through social media or watching a movie while the cold air blows outside. It’s easy to get caught in the comfort of our homes, especially when the temperature drops. In fact, research suggests that the average American spends about 90% of their time indoors, according to the National Human Activity Pattern Survey.
But here’s the catch: spending more time outdoors, even in winter, can offer incredible health benefits — and it’s easier than you might think.
Getting outside, whether it’s a brisk walk in the cold or a long soak in a hot tub, can boost your physical health, improve your mood, and increase your energy levels. Plus, it’s a great way to break free from the routine and connect with nature.
So, how do you embrace the outdoors during the colder months? From seasonal gardening to adding a backyard hot tub, the ideas will encourage you to spend more time outside — no matter how chilly it gets.
Benefits of outdoor winter activities
Spending time outdoors feels like a breeze in the summer. The days are longer, the weather is inviting, and the opportunities to enjoy nature seem endless. But in winter? It can feel more like a chore — or, worse, a punishment.
Despite the colder temperatures, getting outdoors offers powerful health benefits that can help you feel rejuvenated, stay active, and live more fully. Research shows that time spent in nature improves mental clarity, boosts physical health, and reduces stress, all of which are essential for maintaining overall well-being.
Improves mental health
Nature has a calming effect that helps ease mental tension and boosts overall well-being. According to the stress-reduction theory, being in a natural, peaceful environment helps reduce stress and negative feelings, while increasing positive emotions. This shift in mood can help you focus better and think more clearly, making outdoor time not just good for your mental health, but also for your brain.
Boosts physical health
The physical benefits of spending time outdoors are significant. Exposure to natural sunlight helps with vitamin D production, which is essential for bone health, immunity, and mood regulation. Plus, outdoor activities, such as hiking, walking, or just spending time in your backyard, help improve cardiovascular health, support muscle function, and increase overall energy levels.
Strengthens social connections
Outdoor spaces also encourage social interactions. Whether it’s a family gathering around a fire pit or a winter walk with friends, spending time outdoors creates opportunities for connection, which is vital for emotional health. Plus, being outside together provides a shared experience that brings people closer.
7 ways to spend more time outside in the winter
You don’t need to spend hours braving the cold to benefit from being outdoors. Even in winter, there are plenty of simple ways to enjoy nature and its calming effects. These ideas will help you get outside, stay active, and enjoy the fresh air, no matter the temperature.
1. Add a hot tub to your backyard
Imagine stepping outside on a chilly evening, the steam rising from the hot water as you relax under the stars. Can you think of a better way to spend time outside than in a backyard hot tub?
A hot tub is an inviting space where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Powerful massage jets are designed to target specific muscle groups, helping to relieve tension and improve circulation. The soothing water eases sore muscles, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation, all while you enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of your outdoor space.
Master Spas hot tubs feature premium massage jets that allow you to customize your hydrotherapy experience, targeting specific muscle groups with adjustable pressure and positioning. For example, the StressRelief Neck and Shoulder Seat features out-of-water jets that provide a targeted massage to your neck and shoulders.
Plus, hot tubs are an excellent way to make the most of your backyard year-round, transforming it into a haven you can enjoy in every season.
2. Create a cozy outdoor living space
Spending time outside doesn’t have to mean braving the elements. With a well-designed outdoor living space, you can enjoy the fresh air in comfort. Consider adding features like weather-resistant furniture, outdoor heaters, or a fire pit to make your backyard more inviting, even in winter.
Add blankets, cushions, and throws to create a cozy environment that encourages relaxation. Lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, can give the space a warm, inviting glow that’s perfect for evening gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening by yourself or hosting friends and family, a comfortable outdoor space can make spending time outside feel like an effortless experience.
3. Enjoy winter sports and activities
Who says you have to stay inside when it’s cold? Winter offers plenty of opportunities to get active and enjoy the outdoors. From ice skating to snowshoeing, there are a variety of winter sports that can help you stay fit and connected to nature.
You don’t need to travel to a ski resort to get outdoors. A simple winter walk, sledding with kids, and cross-country skiing are fun ways to get outside and experience the beauty of winter. Plus, outdoor physical activities are a great way to keep your energy levels up, reduce stress, and stay healthy during the colder months.
4. Host outdoor winter gatherings
Winter doesn’t have to mean retreating indoors when it’s time to socialize. Hosting an outdoor gathering with blankets, hot drinks, a fire pit, and the soothing warmth of a Master Spas hot tub creates a memorable experience for friends and family.
Whether it’s a casual evening with neighbors or a festive holiday celebration, outdoor gatherings let you enjoy the crisp winter air while embracing the cozy ambiance. Set up heaters, hang some twinkling lights, and add seasonal decorations to make your outdoor space inviting and festive. A Master Spas hot tub is the perfect addition, offering a relaxing retreat where guests can unwind and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in complete comfort.
5. Take a winter walk or hike
There’s something magical about winter landscapes — the snow-covered trees, the quiet stillness, and the beauty of nature at rest. Taking a winter walk or hike is a great way to get outdoors, clear your mind, and boost your mood.
Research shows that walking in nature has numerous mental health benefits, including reduced stress, improved creativity, and enhanced well-being. A study on forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, found that time spent in forests led to a significant reduction in feelings of hostility, depression, and anxiety, particularly among adults with acute or chronic stress. Another study found that walking in forest environments produced the most consistent and positive improvements in psychological health.
Bundle up in warm clothing, grab a pair of boots, and head outside to explore a nearby trail or park. If hiking trails aren’t easily accessible, a walk around your neighborhood or through your own backyard can be just as refreshing.
6. Design an outdoor meditation or yoga space
Mindfulness practices can be especially helpful in the winter as they provide a grounding effect during a time when many may feel more isolated or stressed due to the cold and shorter days. Taking mindfulness outdoors connects you with nature’s calm, which can be particularly effective for reducing winter-related stress or seasonal mood shifts. The fresh air, tranquil surroundings, and sounds of nature naturally enhance your focus, creating a deeper sense of presence and well-being.
Set up a quiet corner in your backyard with a yoga mat and outdoor cushions. Open the cover of your Master Spas hot tub, and let the small water feature add to the serene atmosphere. Even in winter, a little outdoor space dedicated to yoga or meditation can be invigorating.
7. Embrace the seasons with seasonal gardening
Gardening doesn’t have to stop just because it’s winter. While some plants may not thrive in cold weather, there are plenty of winter-friendly plants that can brighten up your yard during the colder months. Consider adding evergreens, winter-blooming flowers, or hardy shrubs to keep your garden vibrant.
Even if you’re not a gardener, you can still embrace the season by creating a winter-themed garden with holiday lights, outdoor wreaths, or even a DIY snowman. This adds beauty to your outdoor space and gives you a reason to spend time outside even when it’s chilly.
Spending more time outside — even in the winter — offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Whether you’re soaking in a hot tub, enjoying a walk in the snow, or hosting an outdoor gathering, there are countless ways to embrace the outdoors and improve your well-being. A well-designed backyard, complete with cozy spaces and thoughtful amenities, can help make the outdoors a more inviting and enjoyable place to spend time year-round.
Buy an all-season hot tub
Are you ready to invest in your well-being and backyard? Master Spas hot tubs can be enjoyed this year and many years to come. Click here to learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about hot tub ownership. Wondering how much a Master Spas hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.