A Dayton Guide to Cure the Winter Blues

It’s been the topic of conversation lately…folks feel down-and-out during the winter months.  Due to less sunlight, the body makes less serotonin–the “happy” chemical of the brain–causing low energy and sluggishness. Therefore, the cold, gray days could make it harder to get out of the house, make plans, or be active. Also, it may seem there are fewer options in the winter months to enjoy Dayton, Ohio.  However, today we bring you good news! Dayton has many fun things in store to help you make it through the winter months. While hot yoga is our favorite cold-weather pastime at Ignite Yoga, we’ve explored all Dayton has to offer to bring you our favorite ways to cure the winter blues. We hope they provide the boost you need to bundle up and make plans for some fun in the Dayton, Ohio area. 

TWO SOCIAL • DOWNTOWN DAYTON, OHIO

Consider this—gaming, indoors, with adult beverages? It may be frigid outside, but retro games and ax-throwing indoors will warm you up!

“Two Social in downtown Dayton is an inviting hangout where locals and visitors can drink and play games together. Inside the Two Social bar, one can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of fun activities, bar games, ax- throwing, drinking games, and even a gaming wall to finally settle who’s the best at Super Smash Bros.”

This is the perfect opportunity to grab your  friends and plan for a night out in downtown Dayton!

SALT ROOM • CENTERVILLE, OHIO

In the mood for something more calm? How about trying a salt room?

“Halotherapy, or salt therapy, is an emerging type of natural therapy in the US.  It is widely popular in European countries and is gaining popularity in the states.  It is completely natural, drug-free, non-invasive, and safe for all ages, including children”.

The good news is you don’t have to look very far to try Halotherapy. Centerville Salt Room is right around the corner from Ignite Yoga on Main Street in Centerville, Ohio. The benefits of salt therapy are many, including clearing the airways, anti-inflammatory properties, immunity-boosting, anti-bacterial, and repairing skin cells…not to mention salt therapy is very relaxing.  Centerville Salt Room is a beautiful facility to plan a personal day or grab your bestie for a girl’s day.

DLM CULINARY CLASSES • CENTERVILLE, OHIO

If you’re a foodie, a cooking class is an excellent way to spend an afternoon or evening. It is fun to partake on your own, with your epecurean spouse, or for a girls’ night out.

“ Dorothy Lane Market (DLM) Culinary Center offers a wide range of cooking classes for every level of expertise and tasting palate! Whether you’re looking to learn some kitchen basics, hone your cooking skills, or broaden your culinary horizon, our skilled staff and guest instructors bring experience and excitement to the table every time”.

No matter what corner of Dayton, Ohio you’re in, DLM has stores in Centerville, Oakwood, Springboro, and Mason, Ohio.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option for culinary explorations, the Dayton Metro Library circuit has a slew of cookbooks you can check out for free. Try a new recipe for yourself or a group of friends. 

DAYTON ART INSTITUTE • DAYTON, OHIO

Did  you know that using more of your right-brain (the creative brain) can help lift your mood and emit serotonin? Luckily, Dayton is peppered with many opportunities to enjoy art, or create your own.  Starting with the Dayton Art Institute; this downtown Dayton gem can be visited Thursdays-Sundays until 5:00p. It’s a great place to visit solo or with a group, but is also kid-friendly! You’re never too young to tap into your right brain with DAI’s ABC’s of Art…an interactive exhibit for all ages. Also, approaching soon in March 2022, Dayton Art Institute will be exhibiting “Van Gogh-European Landscapes“. It will be a can’t miss!

RAISE YOUR BRUSH • CENTERVILLE, OHIO

If you feel called to create art of your own, once again, Centerville has you covered! Raise Your Brush is a “paint and sip” studio that offers step-by-step painting classes for all ages. While you can partake in the painting classes solo, Raise Your Brush caters mostly to groups, small and large. You can plan a family night with the kids, grab your girlfriends for a super-fun night out, or schedule your next team bonding event. Raise Your Brush serves alcoholic beverages, sodas, and you can cater your own food for a unique night of dining, sipping, and creating! Check out their calendar for scheduled painting classes or book your own private party.

You can see there are many opportunities to cure your winter blues in Dayton, Ohio. On a regular basis you’ll find us in hot yoga, taking in the infrared heat, but as teachers and leaders in the community, we encourage you to reap the healing benefits of being connected to your local community. Winter doesn’t have to maintain the reputation of being a dull and drab season. Remember that reaching out to supportive friends, grabbing coffee or lunch at places like GhostLight Coffee or taking a hike in one of Dayton’s beautiful Metro Parks enhances the quality of our lives. Change the winter narrative and let Dayton, Ohio be your winter GEM!

*In addition to what is listed above, visit Dayton.com for even MORE events and ideas that may be new and intriguing to you.