To me, there are few things more peaceful, lovely and satisfying than a crisp sunny day outdoors enjoying fresh snow. The blue sky, the contrast of snow and dark winter trees and the sharp air just puts me right.

You’d rather hunker down? In this year of more snow than we’ve seen in a good long time, I say this: It’s time to get out and discover not just how fun – but how good – it is for you to get outside in the snowy times.

Studies prove it: Dr. Jason Hunziker, chief of the division of adult psychiatry at University of Utah Health’s Huntsman Mental Health Institute, said on their website, “Some studies have shown that being outside triggers physiologic responses in our body that help reduce stress levels. Some feel that we have a strong connection to nature because of the way we evolved from living in nature for survival and that helps us feel peaceful in that setting.”

The study shows you need not emulate my husband, who chose to Nordic ski up Main Street in Plymouth during the last storm. Studies show even passive outdoor activity boosts your mental and physical health.

For Jessie Hanlon of Plymouth, the realization came back in 2015 when she realized her active family was spending a lot of time indoors in the winter. She geared them up and got them skiing. The difference, she says, is undeniable.

“I remember how much better it felt to embrace winter rather than just surviving it,” she said.  They try to get out there as much as possible. “It’s still our favorite way to embrace winter.”

What are some fun outside options? We have a gazillion choices here in the Northeast, from a simple stroll to mastering a new sport. Break out your warm layers, get out of the house and find the place that’s good for you. Your mind – and body – will thank you.

Cityscape stroll: Downtown Boston is like a whole different place when it’s blanketed in snow. The lush landscape of the Public Garden and Common transform into a winter wonderland. The Rose Kennedy Greenway is lovely to walk in snow. You’re surrounded by soaring buildings while still in nature. Enjoy your walk, then pop into the Boston Public Market for a hot drink and a cider doughnut. Bonus in February: Find the “Tunnel of Love” where you can walk through a special light display with music piped in.

To mix an easy stroll with more fun, check out the Frog Pond for skating, or bring along your sled and find Flagstaff Hill on the Common.

Other great walking (or snowshoeing) spots to check out include The Arnold Arboretum, The Seaport District where you can walk along the winter harbor and duck into great spots to warm up, or down in Rhode Island at the lovely Roger Williams Park.

Learn to glide: Both Nordic (cross country) and alpine skiing spots are plentiful around here. And while it’s a bit more work to take up than, say, that city walk; once you learn, it’s there for you for a lifetime. Close to Boston you can sign up for lessons and rental gear at Wachusett Mountain Resort, Blue Hills or Nashoba Valley Ski Area. Or take a ride a bit west and do it amid lovely and historic Berkshire East. Don’t forget it’s not just about the skiing: grab a hot chocolate in the base lodge and dip a Reese’s Cup into it. Trust me on that one.

For Nordic, check out the Weston Ski Track (https://www.skiboston.com/) where you can learn Nordic close to home.

Take a true nature hike: Hiking trails, like city walks, have a totally unique feel in snowy times. The Bay State region has plenty to choose from whether you want an easy walk or a challenging hike. First, make sure you’re properly prepared: dress correctly, wear warm and sturdy hiking boots, know your route well (carry a paper map) and make sure your cell phone is charged.

Then just take it in. Consider the Wildland Trust Trails in Plymouth for flatter hikes through and past marshlands and other coastal sites. For a big time hike, head to Mount Greylock in the Berkshires (the highest peak in the state) where you will find trails for all levels. Or head to Blue Hills Reservation for deep woods hiking oh-so-close to the city.

The beaches are beautiful in the winter as well. Choose your favorite, fill a thermos with your best warm drink and take a beach walk. That cold, salty air is the cure for the common dislike of cold. You’ll see.

Stopping for a warm treat makes your outdoor snow day fun all the better — like this cider and cider doughnut from Red Apple Farm. You can find them in the Boston Public Market and at Wachusett Mountain resort. (Photo Moira McCarthy)
The Tunnel of Love in Columbus Park, Boston. (Photo Kyle Klein/courtesy Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism)
Mt. Greylock in the winter. (Photo courtesy Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism)