The last dregs of winter brings with it a brittle chill, the air hangs with a speck more hostility, the festive vapors of Christmas dissipating against the azure sky. And, on the wind, faint, whispered, barely a suggestion of sound you hear it, the anticipating hymn of the sprites… Al Fresco or Al Desko?
Clocks go Forward
We all fall short somewhere on this issue. It’s not quite spring. There are 7 weeks before the clocks go forward. Do we, starved of natural light and overworked in close quarters with an unforgiving screen, sacrifice our optimum temperature for a lunch in the sun/wind/grey?…(Let’s face it who knows what today’s weather has decided to do in our absence). Tis’ the month of uncertainty. Alternatively, do we fear the relentless shunt of the seasons and stay warm, nibbling at our foiled food in the relative warm of the communal lunchroom?
My advice would probably be this: Don’t give in. Don’t let the seasons bully you into staying indoors. The UK is blessed with a full seasonal cycle: the tempestuous winds and gnarled, grey skies of winter and then glistening, dewy summer nights.
The Last Winter Month
February is the last official winter month. For winter lovers out there, enjoy it while you can. Summer will quickly shadow spring and before we know it, we’ll be complaining about how hot it is. Think warm coffee shops with pals, Sunday pub lunches after wintry walks. All that fresh air and windy walks are upon us this Feb’. So don the last of the winter cozies and get out there!
For those who hate winter, if you don’t want to eat outside, take a 5 minute walk and feel the winds of change in the air. The freshness on the breeze. And remind yourself: Spring Is Coming…
Outdoor Benefits
The office will still be standing when you get back and after you’ve frolicked yourself silly under the contrails of planes jet setting businessmen and women into Europe for corporate patter and croissants.
Late winter in Europe is just as beautiful as late summer. Our neighbors know how to eat al fresco on the continent. The phrase itself is Italian, so take a leaf out of our southern friend’s books and soak up some of the fresh air before nipping back indoors to really appreciate the warm. You’ll often see coffee shops and bars this time of year, with table umbrellas and blankets for people to sit comfortably and have a coffee, while still enjoying the outdoors. Tried it? -Maybe it’s time.
If it’s a super cold day, a walk and a dash for the indoors can be just as rewarding. It’s all about that juxtaposition. It is heating up but it’s still fresh enough to blow away the cobwebs. Even a 5 minute refresher could leave you feeling invigorated.
We become more productive after a walk outdoors; your lungs, muscles, skin and hair will all thank you with a nice boost of serotonin. Eat, walk and be merry in the cool, collected February.
