5 ways to get energized when the power goes out
The dark days of winter can be tough on the body, mind and spirit. Nasty weather can make it challenging to Make Your Move. Inevitable winter storms may mean power outages. But being stuck inside in the dark doesn’t mean you can’t stay active while having fun with little ones. Here are some ways to have fun and keep moving while the power is out.
Challenge friends and family in a light sabre battle
Pillage the recycling bin for wrapping paper or paper towel rolls and channel your favourite Star Wars character for an epic “light sabre” battle. Use flashlights or headlamps to illuminate the battle. These contests can be just a few minutes long, and, of course, involve no real heavy hitting. The aim here is to swing those arms, move those legs, lunge a little and laugh a lot. Cite a few famous Star Wars lines like, “May the force be with you.”
Make a pillow fort
Who doesn’t love building a pillow fort? It’s fun and keeps you moving. First, search the house to gather construction materials, a.k.a. chairs, blankets and pillows. Next, get building – which involves leaning, reaching, bending, getting up and down, and stretching. When you’re finished, climb inside with a flashlight and share a healthy snack. Tell a ghost story or two. Maybe have a friendly pillow fight. Eventually, it will be time to tidy the house – time for a bit more activity!
Play “I Spy “
To play this version of “I Spy,” you’ll need a flashlight and a good memory. Each player takes a turn prowling the room, using a flashlight to search out colourful objects. Stay silent the whole time and change your location frequently, so people don’t know which item/colour you’ve chosen. Then say, “I spy with my little eye, something that is….,” filling in whatever applies to your choice. The other players take turns searching the room with the flashlight. They have one guess per turn. Whoever guesses correctly first goes next. If no one gets it, you take another turn.
Orchestrate a percussion performance
Head back to the recycling bin to dig for empty boxes, paper towel rolls and cans, then reach into the cupboards for dried foods like rice and beans. With elastic bands, paper and tape and some imagination, it’s easy to create shakers, drums and maracas.
Once you’ve assembled your instruments, shake them, bang them and have a little dance party. Why not make everyone giggle? Laughter is good for us. Next, find other objects around the house that make sounds – you could even lean into Nova Scotia tradition and play the spoons (plastic or metal spoons work!). Get creative.
If there’s enough power left on your phone to spare, play a fun family playlist and put on a short show.
Take a walk
If it’s safe to do so, taking a walk in the dark with at least one buddy can be captivating. (For safety’s sake, never walk alone in the pitch black.)
Listen closely to what’s around you. What do you hear? Your own footsteps? Dogs barking? A door slamming? Was that an owl? Even a 10-minute walk around the block can be enough to help you Take the Roof off Winter. The fresh air is exhilarating.
It’s a truly unique experience being outside when the lights are out, but you’ll need to pay extra attention to your surroundings. Know your route, and avoid the woods or isolated walkways. Use the sidewalk, and walk facing oncoming traffic. Increase visibility by carrying flashlights, wearing a headlamp and dressing in reflective clothing. Wear non-slippery footwear or grips on your boots. Always stay with your buddy. Remember: winter safety first!
Moving more in small amounts is good for you. Next time the power goes out, take the opportunity to get active and enjoy no-cost fun with family and friends.