As the temperatures plummet and winter settles in, many individuals find themselves retreating into solitude, preferring the warmth of blankets and comfort food over the effort of social engagement. In South Africa, where winters can be notably chilly in many regions, the season often leads to a decline in social activity. However, maintaining social connections during winter not only give us happiness—it is essential for our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.

The Importance of Social Connections in Cold Seasons

Human beings are inherently social creatures. Our need for companionship and community does not diminish with the change of seasons. On the contrary, winter can exacerbate feelings of isolation, especially with fewer daylight hours and colder weather limiting outdoor activities. Social interaction plays a critical role in emotional regulation, stress management, and long-term health outcomes. According to the American Psychological Society those with strong social ties are statistically more likely to live longer and experience fewer health complications, including depression and anxiety.

Research published in the National Library of Medicinehighlights social relationships as buffers against stress and recognises meaningful relationships as a protective factor against risk for disease.

Engaging in regular social activities can stimulate the brain, elevate mood, and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression associated with changes in seasons.

Lessons from the Nordic Lifestyle

One inspiring model comes from Norway, where the long, dark winters are not merely endured but embraced. Norwegians adopt a positive mindset toward winter, often referred to as “hygge,” a term that embodies warmth, coziness, and social bonding. Rather than viewing winter as a time of deprivation, they see it as an opportunity for indoor comfort, reflection, and togetherness. Listen to psychologist Kari Leibowitz, PhD, author of How to Winter on how to appreciate Winter for what it is, without wishing it was something different. Leibowitz who studied Norwegian attitudes toward winter, found that their outlook plays a significant role in how they experience the season. “Norwegians view winter as something to celebrate, not dread,” she notes. Emulating this approach can help transform our perception of winter and encourage more proactive social habits.

6 Practical Ideas for Winter Socialising

If your social calendar is looking sparse, winter is the perfect time to create new traditions and explore meaningful connections. Below are several suggestions designed to foster community and combat isolation during the colder months:

1. Create a Weekly Tradition

Establish a regular gathering with friends or family—be it a Sunday evening hot chocolate meet-up, a cozy book club, or a Friday night movie session. The consistency offers something to look forward to and helps maintain strong social bonds.

2. Challenge Friends to Pub Quizzes or Trivia Nights

Trivia evenings at local venues are increasingly popular and provide a light-hearted yet intellectually stimulating way to engage with others. Join with friends or make new ones by teaming up with strangers. It’s a low-pressure environment ideal for both extroverts and introverts.

3. Join a Club or Class

Socialise among like-minded peers by enrolling in a class—such as painting, cooking, or yoga—or joining a group that aligns with your interests, such as a spiritual group or community organisation. Research from Thriveworkssuggests that shared interests can lead to more meaningful, long-lasting connections.

4. Host Social Gatherings at Home

Winter is the ideal season for indoor hosting. Organise a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish, or invite friends for a board game night or themed movie marathon complete with adult sleepover. Hosting does not require extravagance—authenticity and warmth are the key elements.

5. Volunteer Locally

Volunteering at a soup kitchen, shelter, or hospital not only benefits the community but also offers surprising personal benefits. Giving back has been linked to lower rates of depression and higher life satisfaction.

6. Plan Creative Activities

Organise a DIY event such as a paint party where friends help refresh a space in your home—complete with music, snacks, and warm drinks. Alternatively, plan a winter-themed photo shoot with loved ones and share the memories online to spread warmth and cheer.

Tips for Success

To ensure these efforts are fruitful, it’s important to seek out individuals who share your values, interests, and sense of humour. Strong social compatibility makes gatherings more enjoyable and relationships more resilient. Dr. Emma Seppälä of Yale University notes that fostering authentic social connections is among the most powerful predictors of happiness and life satisfaction. Even a few close, meaningful relationships can outweigh the impact of dozens of superficial interactions.

Conclusion

Winter need not be a season of isolation. By adopting a proactive mindset and embracing the opportunity for deeper, more meaningful connections, we can transform the coldest months into a time of warmth and togetherness. Inspired by the Nordic example and supported by psychological research, winter socialising is both a valuable and attainable goal.

So instead of hibernating this winter, reach out, get involved, and let the chill in the air be your cue to rekindle the warmth of human connection.

References

• Abrams, Z. (2023). The science of why friendships keep us healthy. APA. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/06/cover-story-science-friendship
• Employment & Labour. (2023). How to manage seasonal depression. Retrieved from https://www.labour.gov.za/DocumentCenter/Publications/Public%20Employment%20Services/How%20to%20Manage%20Seasonal%20Depression%20(PPP).pdf
• Fedhealth. (2017). Winter is all about hygge. Retrieved from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/winter-is-all-about-hygge/
• Fedhealth. (2018). The power of giving. Retrieved from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/the-power-of-giving/
• Hostinar, C. E. (2015). Recent developments in the study of social relationships, stress responses and physical health. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4562328/
• Segal, J., et al. (2024). Volunteering and its surprising benefits. HelpGuide. Retrieved from https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/wellbeing/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits
• Seppala, E. (2016). Connect to thrive: The many benefits of social connection. Retrieved from https://emmaseppala.medium.com/connect-to-thrive-the-many-benefits-of-social-connection-626d35907179
• Speaking of psychology podcast. (2024). Learning to embrace winter with Kari Leibowitz, PhD [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-to-embrace-winter-with-kari-leibowitz-phd/id705934263?i=1000679180987

Thriveworks. (2023). Understanding and navigating relationship dynamics. Retrieved from https://thriveworks.com/help-with/relationships/relationship-dynamics/