Does the winter weather have you down?  Here in Western Pennsylvania, we’ve run the gamut from extreme frigid temperatures to snow days and rain storms over the past few weeks.  It’s normal to start feeling a little depressed this time of year.

One way to combat a bad mood is with exercise.  Even so, the gym can get tedious day after day.  At our house, we like to be able to get out and take walks on a regular basis.  If you feel like you can’t get outside though, due to poor walkway conditions or temperatures, consider visiting an indoor attraction to boost your spirits.

We spent one of the extremely cold days of January at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.  Not only did we get to stretch our legs, but we basked in some sunshine as well.  While it was a very cold (19 degrees!) day, it didn’t feel like it under the glass.  The sun was shining through and everything looked beautiful.  It was a big mood booster, as we felt like we’d escaped to the tropics!

The Pittsburgh area is full of museums and indoor venues, so try stepping outside of your normal gym routine to give yourself a little boost through the rest of the winter.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens on a frigid January Day

Inside it’s warm and sunny.

Art mixed with lush greenery.