We all know that in Auburn, when it rains, it pours. But just because the weather isn’t cooperating with your plans doesn’t mean you can’t still have a great day. 

Don’t let a little rain stop you from getting things done, even if those things aren’t what you originally had planned. To help you out, we’ve made a list of ten fun ways to spend your rainy day.

Clean out your closet

Or that junk drawer. Or under your bed. Whatever that cluttered area is for you, decluttering will help clear your mind and make finding things a little easier. Organizing areas of clutter in your life will relieve stress you didn’t even know you had. Many studies show the positive and negative effects on our minds and bodies caused by messy or clean areas of our homes, including this one by assistant professor of psychology, Darby Saxbe, Ph.D., at UCLA. 

Have a movie marathon

Pop some popcorn, curl up in bed, and watch whatever movie or show you’ve been wanting to binge. There’s something oddly calming about just laying around in the comfort of the indoors when it’s pouring rain right outside your window. 

Read that book on your nightstand

You know the one. That book you were excited to buy and then read approximately one chapter of. If you don’t want to go anywhere because of the rain, why not read that book that you were so fired up about reading? Also, there’s something motivating about reading a book for fun.

Fire up some fun fitness YouTube videos

Want to workout but don’t want to go outside? You’re in luck! There are literally thousands of workout videos online. My favorites are Kenzie Morley and The Fitness Marshall.

Try out that recipe you’ve been wanting to make

There’s nothing like some warm comfort food on a rainy day. If you’ve got the ingredients for a new recipe but haven’t yet had time to try it out, now’s your chance. If you have to be cooped up inside all day, you might as well be cooped up with some good food. And if you don’t have the ingredients you need but don’t want to drive to the store in the rain, make something you already have. Bake the cookie dough before it goes bad, or even just brew yourself a nice cup of tea or hot cocoa.

Have an at-home spa day

Draw up a bubble bath and break out the nail polish. Go crazy and create your own spa experience without blowing all of your money or braving the rain. 

Call your grandma

Or your mom, dad, sibling, or whoever you haven’t talked to in a while. They’ll be happy to hear from you, and you’ll love talking to someone you haven’t gotten to see in a few months. Chatting with a loved one who you miss is a sure-fire way to make your gloomy day a little brighter. 

Build a fort

No, you’re not too old. Chances are you haven’t made a decent blanket fort in years, so why not today? If it’s too rainy to go have fun outside, make your own fun in the comfort of your dorm/apartment.  

Relax

Rest is important. So, curl up with a good book, journal a little, or just chill. If you want to take a nap, take one, you don’t get this good of an excuse to do nothing very often. If the rain makes you feel lazy, then take this opportunity to relax in the comfort of your own bed.

Get to The Rec

Feeling bold today? Brave the rain and come to The Rec. Get a workout in, grab a friend and attend a Group Fit class, or just take a relaxing walk on the track.

We hope you enjoy these fun little ideas for your next rainy day. And as always,

Be well, Auburn. 

Photography: Zoe L.