Cheryl Besner: Sweater Weather
In the summer, when we step out of our office at the end of a long workday, the sunshine and warm air often draw us to an outdoor terrace, where we can enjoy a cool, refreshing drink amongst other warm weather enthusiasts. The ambience of a crowded outdoor coffee shop or a rooftop outdoor lounge is an easy one in which to laugh, have a conversation, and meet new people.
Then… November hits! The days get shorter, the weather gets colder, and we all tend to begin the hibernation process.
We end our day eager to strip off our heavy coats and work clothes, cuddle up in fluffy slippers and favourite sweaters, and pour ourselves a big bold red or a cup of hot tea or cocoa.
This is when something interesting happens to many solos. You find yourself wishing that, instead of resorting to the comfort of your UGG slippers, there was a pair of feet near you to play footsie with, or a welcoming set of arms to cuddle into for the night, your souls warmed by each other’s body heat instead of cashmere.
It’s this time of year that sees registrations with online dating sites like Solo in the City and Match spike, and matchmakers report the highest number of new clients.
So, what are you going to do for yourself this coming sweater season? Just because you are alone doesn’t have to mean you are lonely! Remember, it’s not just solos who feel hemmed-in. There are plenty of coupled-up individuals who feel just as isolated within their relationships. I know, as I was one of them at the end of my marriage.
The best heater for the coming season is to embrace is ourselves and nurture our own being. We can use this time of cocooning to warm our souls, and expand and explore new ideas, activities, or layers of ourselves through introspection.
I myself have used this time of year since my divorce to reflect and grow. I slow down my pace, examine what I have achieved in the past months, and set my intentions of how I want to live during the colder season. My default on frigid, stormy nights are a furry blanket, comfy couch, and my dog – but notice that I said default!
While I do enjoy those delicious nights home alone when it’s all about me, I am aware that I can’t stay home and expect Mr. Right to come knocking at my door!
How many times have you heard the expressions “You are not getting any younger” or “You only live once”? Consider this: If we shut down our social outings during the winter, we lose 5-6 months every year of learning something new, experiencing and expanding a different side of ourselves, and meeting new people – one of whom could be your cuddle bunny during the next snowstorm!
So, don’t be a bear and crawl into your den!
Here are five interesting activities to try this winter:
1) A new outdoor sport. Ski schools, for instance, have beginner-level classes for adults. The bonus is the après-ski time in the chalet, when you can mingle! Joining an indoor tennis club and taking part in a round robin is also a great way to expand your social circle, while running around the court will keep you warm!
2) Take a stroll to the nearest coffee shop and order a hot chocolate. There are some cafés that even feature a fireplace!
3) Outdoor spas, like Bota Bota or Scandinave, offer hot tubs to rejuvenate and relax your mind, body, and soul.
4) Register for a wine-tasting course and learn how to appreciate the elixir of the gods, while allowing those silky-smooth warm red wines to toast you from the inside out.
5) Treat yourself by signing up for a weekend retreat. Taking time away to expand and experience, while allowing yourself to just BE, is so beneficial and rewarding. Retreats are the ultimate gift to ourselves.
Tune in to this week’s Solo in the City Radio, where the discussion will be all about nurturing ourselves and our relationships.
Don’t forget to register with Solo in the City online for your chance to win a weekend getaway at the W hotel in Montreal! And last, but certainly not least, remember to check the updates to our KISS calendar. There’s no better way to beat the winter blues than to Keep It Simply Social!
– Cheryl xo
