The clocks have changed, the leaves are falling and we’re DEFINITELY heading swiftly toward winter however mild it may be. So perk up your spirits with 10 fun and feel-good things to enjoy this month.
“What I like doing best is Nothing … It means just going along, listening to all the things you can’t hear and not bothering. “
1. Wrap Up Warm
I’m not feeling particularly enthusiastic about the extra hours of darkness we have to look forward to in the next few months, but I do enjoy a quality winter coat and woolly hat. And as for blanket scarves … be still my beating heart!
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2. Try a new recipe
It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, but as we enter the season of soups, stews and pies, why not make something you haven’t had for ages, or try a new recipe? I’m looking forward to making this Burnt Aubergine Chilli again and having a look through The Big Book of Amazing Cakes for inspiration after many hours of watching The Great British Bake Off.
3. Go to the cinema
There’s nothing like a trip to the cinema on a chilly day, preferably armed with a nice coffee and a bag of Maltesers. I’m hoping to see The French Dispatch and Last Night in Soho, and can’t wait for the Parent & Baby screenings in the Lighthouse Cinema to start up again at the end of the month!
4. Organise your Christmas decorations
I’m not one for decking the halls straight after Halloween, but now is the time to dust off those decorations, and see what you have.
Get rid of anything you no longer want (to a freecycle group or charity shop if they’re in good condition), and perhaps pick up a few new bits if you want to freshen up your festivities.
Why now? Well, last year I got everything out at the last minute, and only spotted a whole extra box when I was putting the decorations away in January. It’s also a great way to stop yourself buying extra bits you don’t need.
5. Read The Wild Remedy by Emma Mitchell
Paired with beautiful photos and illustrations, The Wild Remedy takes us chronologically through the year, exploring how getting out into nature can support our mental wellbeing – a great book for anyone who has found daily walks invaluable through lockdown.
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6. Make a new playlist
It’s not quite the same as making a proper mixtape, but there’s nothing like listening to just the right music for your mood or rediscovering a song you haven’t heard for ages.
7. Print your photos
Do you have a gallery full of great photos and amazing memories hiding on your phone? Time to print off some of your favourites, and hang them on the wall or organise them into an album. There are great deals so it doesn’t have to cost much, and even scrolling through picking the best ones can be great fun!
8. Go to the local library
Looking for something to do without spending a cent? Why not pay a visit to your local library? If you have something specific you’re looking for you can order it in advance, otherwise it’s great fun to wander the aisles from time to time.
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9. Go for a walk first thing in the morning
Last year I found myself going a little stir-crazy spending so much time indoors, with whole days where I might not go out at all thanks to working from home. So in case anyone else needs to hear it, GO OUTSIDE AT LEAST ONCE A DAY. Ideally in the morning when it’s as bright as possible.
10. Hang some fairylights
Let’s enjoy those darker evenings with a little mood lighting, shall we? While you’re at it, pull up a blanket and make a cup of tea … you’ve earned it!
Feature image by freestocks on Unsplash