A Day Indoors and the Lesson I Didn’t Expect

Yesterday was one of those days that left me feeling heavy, not because anything went wrong, but because the weather had other plans.

I started my day like any other while traveling: a workout in the hotel gym, a bit of work in the room, and breakfast downstairs while hoping the storm would pass. A northeastern had dumped an enormous amount of rain on the East Coast, and the wind made sure we stayed inside.

We finally ventured out after breakfast but were soaked within minutes. So we spent the rest of the day indoors, exploring the maze of connected hotels and malls. It was actually quite nice. Music playing, warm air, plenty to look at. We had coffee, played games in the room, went back out for dinner in the mall, and ended the night watching Monday Night Football.

It was a perfectly fine day. But something still felt off. That heavy, restless feeling lingered. I felt down, even with my family right there.

And I think I know why.

We didn’t go outside. Not really. No fresh air, no daylight, no sky.

If we’d packed the right clothes, like rain jackets and boots, I know we would have been out there, even for a walk.

Yesterday made me realize how much I take sunlight and fresh air for granted. I’m used to getting outside without really thinking about it, whether it’s walking our dog Lucy, going for a run, or sitting on a terrace with coffee back home in Switzerland. But spending an entire day indoors was a reminder that I feel off when I don’t have that connection. Heavy, foggy, and out of rhythm.

In Switzerland, most people don’t wait for the weather to cooperate. They dress for it and carry on. You’ll see people biking to work in the rain, walking home in the snow, or heading out for a hike even when it’s cold. It’s not about waiting for the perfect day. It’s about staying connected to the world outside, no matter what the weather brings.

I can’t help but wonder how many people spend most of their days indoors, breathing filtered air, surrounded by screens and artificial light, not realizing how much it affects their mood, energy, and mental health. Sometimes the smallest thing, like stepping outside for a few minutes, can make a huge difference.

Do you notice a difference in your mood when you spend too much time indoors? What helps you get outside, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate?