Leap Year: 10 Ways to Spend Your Extra Day

Every four years, we’re gifted with something special: a bonus day. Though we think you should always make time for yourself, this leap year, we encourage you to set aside an entire extra day so you can spend it however you want. Discover in this blog some of our favorite ideas. Choose a few to do, or do them all.

Why We Have Leap Years

The concept of leap years traces its roots back to the ancient Romans. A leap year every four years helps synchronize our calendar with the Earth’s orbit around the sun. But it isn’t just about adjusting our calendar; it’s also a time when cultures celebrate in unique ways.

The extra day in a leap year symbolizes a pause, a chance to step outside the everyday routine and reflect on the extraordinary beauty of life. In some traditions, women are encouraged to take the initiative and propose to their partners on February 29th. Others consider the leap day a day of good luck and a time to embark on new adventures or make life-changing decisions.

Photo by Kim Swain | Bella Grace Issue 31

10 Ways to Spend Your Extra Day

1. Spend the day in bed. Pull on a fresh pair of pajamas, gather up some books and snacks, and the TV remote. Sneak in a nap or two for ultimate relaxation.
2. Pretend it’s summer. Turn up the heater, throw on a sundress, and paint your toenails a bright, sunshiny color.
3. Gather with friends. Call up those people you never get a chance to see and put aside a few hours to spend with them. Go out for lunch, or consider hosting a potluck at your house. 
4. Go somewhere new in your town or city. It can be easy to stick to the same restaurants, stores, and even parks. Visit a new-to-you place where you live.
5. Watch your favorite movie. Many of us feel the need to keep up with all the new pop culture. Dim the lights, grab a blanket, and turn on your go-to feel-good movie.
6. Do a puzzle. They’re good for your mind, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of putting the final piece in place. 
7. Cook something that takes all day. How often have you said you wanted to make a certain meal but you just don’t have the time? Now’s your chance.
8. Take a break from social media. We all need to reset from time to time. You won’t miss anything. We promise.
9. Pamper yourself. Take an extra long bath or shower. Use the good salts and scrubs. Put on a face mask. You’ve earned this break.
10. Watch cute animal videos online. Just a few videos filled with puppies and kittens are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Find more ways to celebrate the beauty of everyday life in our Bella Grace magazine.