A rainy day can change your plans, but it can also give you a reason to slow down. There’s something comforting about hearing rain outside while you’re warm and comfortable at home. Here are ten ways I’d enjoy a rainy day.
1. Have a cozy movie marathon.
Put on a favorite hoodie, grab a blanket, and choose a couple of movies. Add an easy snack, and you’ve got a lovely afternoon planned.
2. Make a warm cup of herbal tea.
Take your tea to a comfortable spot near a window and watch the rain for a few minutes. Let yourself enjoy it before reaching for your phone.
3. Try a comforting recipe.
A rainy day is a good opportunity to spend a little extra time in the kitchen. My brown sugar and walnut acorn squash would make a cozy autumn side dish.
4. Write a blog post or journal entry.
Capture a memory, write about something you’re learning, or make a list of things you’re looking forward to. You don’t have to finish it all in one sitting.
5. Give one corner of your home a refresh.
Straighten a shelf, rearrange a few decorations, or make your favorite chair more inviting. Choose a small project you can finish and enjoy that day.
6. Check on your houseplants.
Look for new growth, remove dried leaves, and check the soil before watering. I enjoy taking a little time to notice how my plants are doing.
7. Do something creative.
Design a graphic, work on a craft, or gather ideas for a future project. It’s nice to make something simply because you enjoy it.
8. Read a few chapters.
Pick up a book you’ve been meaning to start—or return to one you already love. Find a comfortable spot and let yourself get caught up in the story.
9. Enjoy an at-home pampering evening.
Take a warm shower, put on comfortable clothes, and spend a little time on your usual skincare routine. Fresh pajamas and clean sheets can make the evening feel especially restful.
10. Call someone you enjoy talking to.
Catch up with a friend or family member. A rainy afternoon can be the perfect time for an unhurried conversation and a good laugh.
Some rainy days, I’ll feel like cooking or creating. Other days, a movie and a cup of tea will be plenty. Either way, I want to enjoy the time I have.
Sometimes my favorite rainy-day plan is simply to get comfortable and see where the afternoon takes me.