Rainy day activities

It wouldn’t be a proper British summer without a few rainy days, would it? So, when the showers start, it’s time to get the creative juices flowing. Get the kids involved too – focussing all that buzzing energy on creativity can be beneficial for them and you.

So next time the rain makes an appearance, here are a few activities that you can get stuck in to.

Be arty with paint

If you’re not keen on splashing around in puddles outside, why not splash around inside with paints instead? While away the hours by making painterly patterns with different tools like sponge, sticks, a comb, and anything else you can lay your hands on.

Getting involved with the arts can help to protect against a range of mental health conditions, help manage mental ill health and support recovery¹. So, experiment, make a mess, and feel great!

Feel crafty

If you want to see what you can weave, stitch or knot into something unique, have a go at knitting, crochet, macramé or tapestry. They’re all fun in different ways and you can go off on a tangent once you really get the hang of it. 

Start with an easy project like a scarf if you fancy clicking away with knitting or crochet needles. Or try a wall hanging with macramé, or a small starter kit for tapestry. You’ll end up with something useful and beautiful! There are some great little tapestry designs of colourful animals with cheeky faces to get the kids involved too!

Cook up something delicious

It’s easier than ever with meal kits. Not only can they provide all the ingredients you need, but they can also help you reduce food waste. Kids can find cooking great fun too. Get them interested by setting them fun tasks in the kitchen. You’ll have a budding little helper in no time!

Board games

Enjoy some screen-free fun! Dust off the good old board games from the loft and escape to the realms of relaxation. Release your cheeky, competitive side and feel like a kid again. Play is fun and can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being².  As adults we tend to think play is just for children. Why not join-in with the kids and show them that you can play too?

Make time to rest your mind

After a day filled with activities, take some time to relax and wind down. Empty your mind at bedtime to help you get to sleep. You could try:

• Reading a good old fashioned paper book
• Having a bubble bath
• Stroking your pet
• Taking a stroll
• Writing down your thoughts

Sources

1. Mental Health Foundation - www.mentalhealth.org.uk/blog/how-arts-can-help-improve-your-mental-health  

2. HelpGuide - www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/benefits-of-play-for-adults.htm