As someone who grew up in Minnesota and now lives in southern California, I’ve experienced winter in all of its forms — from harsh blizzards to mild rains to full-on heat waves. Yet, there are some aspects of this season that remain consistent no matter what part of the nation we reside in. Whether we live on snow-capped mountains or along sandy beaches, we all experience shorter evenings, lower average temperatures, and a subtle sense of pause around us.

Animals rest in hibernation, nature’s colors fade, and we, too, are invited to take on a slower, more peaceful pace. There is no better time for quiet reflection, for hopeful dreaming, and for all the best comforts of home. Whether we prefer to remain indoors and keep cozy or get outside and explore, there are countless opportunities to savor this season.

For a few ideas on how to get started, below is our winter bucket list. See how many you can check off!

Go Outside

1. Make a snow angel (or a sand angel, depending on where you live)
2. Find an ice rink and go skating
3. Take a crisp morning walk in the snow
4. Catch a snowflake on your tongue
5. Go stargazing on a clear night
6. Build a snowman
7. Soak in natural hot springs

Get Creative

1. Take a cooking class
2. Knit a warm chunky scarf
3. Set up a blanket fort and “camp out”
4. Make DIY Valentines
5. Cut out paper snowflakes
6. Make homemade hot chocolate
7. Develop an indoor workout routine

Keep Cozy at Home

1. Decorate sugar cookies
2. Play your favorite card games with family
3. Snack on lots of fresh pomegranates, kale, cranberries and other seasonal produce
4. Brighten your space with fresh winter blooms
5. Take a bubble bath
6. Set out lots of blankets and host an indoor movie night for friends
7. Sit by a window and watch the snow fall

Give Back

1. Volunteer at a soup kitchen
2. Write a Thank You note to someone who deserves it
3. Host a winter brunch for friends
4. Donate socks and blankets to a local homeless shelter
5. Clean out your closet
6. Bake homemade bread for your neighbors and co-workers
7. Find a local coffeehouse concert to go to

Rest Up

1. Make a reading list, and read each book start to finish
2. Create the perfect winter playlist
3. Set (and keep up with) New Year’s resolutions
4. Take a nap by the fire
5. Spend an afternoon looking through old photos
6. Take a social media detox
7. Start a journal

What would you add to your winter bucket list?

Images via Hart & Honey