Leaping in on a cold winter’s morning with a book nearby? Oh yeah!
Whether you’re a winter hater or lover – it doesn’t really matter on which side of the coin your opinion falls – we as South Africans tend to become complete hermits as we try to brave the cold. And, of course, as the temperatures plummet, it becomes more of a challenge to be socially active.
However, social plans are just the thing to haul yourself out from under the covers! As humans we have an emotional need for relationships and connections with others. In fact, our social connections not only give us happiness, but they can influence our mental and physical wellbeing. Meaningful relationships act as a psychological buffer against stress, and people who have them are happier, have fewer health issues and even live longer!
Look at the Norwegians: they view their long, dark winters as something to celebrate. They look forward to the things one can do in winter. Cold weather should bring people together as we yearn for love, warmth and connection. There’s a saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.
So, let’s get smitten with the Nordic trend and if your social calendar isn’t filling up then NOW is the time to think outside the box and make this winter the best one ever. We certainly have a few ideas:
- Come up with a fun weekly tradition. Catch up with friends over hot chocolate on Sunday evenings, or have coffee once a week at your favourite spot. It’s worth braving the cold.
- Challenge friends to a pub quiz. Team up with your favourite peeps and challenge your brain on a chilly evening at the local pub.
- Join an organised club. Socialise among like-minded peers by joining a spiritual group, book club, etc.
- Go for live jazz. There are some amazing venues where you can enjoy dinner and a show. Book in advance to get a good seat!
- Learn something new. Meet new people by taking a cooking, computer, art or music class.
- Cook for friends or family. Bake bread and make a hearty soup. Delicious!
- Host a potluck. Ask everyone to bring something and enjoy each other’s company.
- Have a paint party. Invite a few friends over to paint a room in your home because you’re too cheap to hire a professional and/or too lazy to do it yourself. Supply paint, brushes and overalls, and keep the snacks and mulled wine ready for afterwards.
- Host movie night or “The Board Game Olympics.” (Of course there will be an adult sleepover!)
- Bundle up and do an outdoor photo shoot of friends and family. Post all your photos on Instagram. Guaranteed to make couch potatoes jealous!
- Help out at a soup kitchen or hospital. Your time is valuable to a number of people and places. Plus, the rewards are often immeasurable!
The key to getting involved in social activities is to look for relationships with those who share your interests, values and sense of humour. There will be those who share that with you, and those… those are your people.
Stay warm, everyone!
Source: www.aconciousrethink.com, www.foodandhome.co.za, www.fastcompany.com, thriveworks.com, www.pinkofperfection.com, www.theguardian.com, www.mnn.com, www.travelground.com, wanderlust.com, blog.flightsite.co.za, www.capetown.travel, www.lifestyleover50.com, www.care2.com, thoughtcatalog.com
