10 Things To Do As The Evenings Draw In 

We love this time of year, when the clocks go back and the evenings draw in. Yes, it's getting cold outside, and it's often wet and windy, but that gives you the perfect excuse to pull back a little and slow things down, making time to do the things you actually want to do, rather than feeling the pressure to get out and about all the time. 

The trick is to get the balance right, slowing down without hibernating completely. And we're here to help, with some ideas to help you make the most of your time and embrace the darker evenings.

 

 

1.  Try Some New Recipes.

It’s soup and stew season, so get creative in the kitchen and spend an evening prepping and cooking while listening to your favourite tunes - glass of wine in hand if you like, no judgement here. It’s not only satisfying to try out a new recipe, it can also make life easier for the week ahead if you make your dishes in bulk. You’ll be rewarded with some wholesome, ready made meals on the days that you don’t have the time or inclination to cook. 

 

2.  Binge The Latest Netflix Series.

Get into a good series. There’s always something new to watch, sometimes to the point that it’s overwhelming, so ask around. It’s a good conversation starter at work to find out what your colleagues' current favourite shows are. Or just hit repeat on Gilmore Girls - you can’t beat a few hours spent in the easy company of an old favourite.

 

3.  Try Yoga At Home.

Change into comfy clothing, light a candle and set out your mat if you want to unwind in the comfort of your own home with a relaxing yoga session, either after work or before bed. There are lots of different online classes to choose from, whatever your level or preference. Why not try yin, a quiet, gentle type of yoga that is slow paced. Or give meditation a try. It’s the perfect season to slow down and retreat into yourself with this type of practice.

 

4.  Take Up Journaling.

If you need some extra help to settle your mind, why not try journaling? It’s a good way to find mental clarity by getting your thoughts out of your head and down onto paper. Some people use it to help with anxiety or stress, giving them perspective and helping them to prioritise their concerns. Others take the opportunity to write down the things they are grateful for, no matter how big or small the event. 

 

 

5.  Start A New Screen Free Hobby.

Crafting is coming back in a big way, with painting, pottery, scrapbooking and crocheting - to name but a few - having a resurgence in popularity. You’ll find courses to get you started online, or you can search up some classes if you’re looking for a more social experience. Iris and Dora run regular crafting workshops and Creaseys often has drop-in crochet and knitting sessions, to name but a few of the local options you’ll find out there.

 

6.  Read A Book.

Turn away from your screens and pick up a book. Or try listening to an audiobook. When it’s dark and the weather is wild outside, there’s nothing better than settling down with a cosy blanket, a cup of herbal tea and a good read. Not sure what to read? Here are some suggestions from our friends at the library. 

 

7.  Pamper Yourself.

Indulge yourself for the evening by creating a sensual spa at home experience, where you can hit pause, relax and unwind. Set the scene with soft lighting, gentle music and a scented candle. Draw a bath, pop on a face mask and, if you’re going all out, invest in some new PJs for the evening. You’re worth it.

 

8.  Start A Home Project.

Be it decluttering or redecorating a room, this feels so satisfying when it’s done. Especially if it’s cold and wet outside and you’re all cosy inside your home, doing something productive. When you remove - or reduce, let’s be realistic! - the clutter from your home your mind really does feel lighter… and it will make choosing the new colour scheme for your room so much easier if you move onto the redecoration stage of your home project!  

 

9.  Phone A Friend.

It’s all too easy to withdraw and keep yourself to yourself when the nights draw in, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Up to a point. But even the introverts amongst us need some social contact, so pick up your phone and, instead of scrolling, hit the dial icon and phone a friend for a chat - or better still, invite them around for a chat and a cuppa.

 

10.  Make Plans.

As much as we love to hibernate, it’s good to have plans to get out and it’s often worth it when you do. From experience, we recommend planning ahead and getting a date in the diary, otherwise it’s too easy to let plans slide. So book a meal out, arrange to meet up for a class or invite a friend round for a chat. It doesn’t have to be a big night out… unless you want it to be.