From connecting with those we care about to learning to love the planet around us, we share 10 things to do this December
Page-turners
Get Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Observing others and following in their footsteps can seem like a logical way to make decisions. But learning to become your own pioneer can also be a liberating experience. Glennon Doyle’s new journal encourages us to stop pleasing others, and start putting our own needs and aspirations first.
(Out now Vermilion, £12.99)
Out and about
Christmas markets
As we get into the festive spirit, Christmas markets are a fantastic opportunity to bring all of the family together for a hot chocolate-fuelled walk, while soaking up the warmth of fresh baking, or the pride of local vendors. They can also be a wonderful way to celebrate on a low budget, with many being free to enter.
(Search ‘Christmas market’ to find a location near you)
Put on a show
‘Our Future Planet’ at the Science Museum
The Science Museum inspires awe in those who visit on an ordinary day, but with a new exhibition on the future of the planet, it’s the place to be this December. The ‘Our Future Planet’ exhibition aims to showcase emerging technology tackling the climate crisis head on, and is an event that is sure to capture your attention.
(Visit sciencemuseum.org.uk) to find out more)
Lend us your ears
‘How to Fail with Elizabeth Day’
For many of us, failing is something we actively avoid, seeing it as an inherently negative experience. But instead of being disappointed in ourselves when we do fail, Elizabeth Day talks candidly to actors, celebrities, and athletes about the lessons we can learn when things don’t go to plan.
(Listen to the podcast on iTunes and Spotify)
Plugged-in
@realgrumpycat
We all know how much a photo of a cute animal can brighten our day, don’t we? If your Instagram feed is lacking in fluffy faces, an extra grumpy cat could be the missing piece. Following the adventures of Grumpy Cat, the photos of its frowning face are sure to bring a smile to yours.
(Follow @realgrumpycat on Instagram)
Tech Tip-Offs
1 Second Everyday
Videos can be an incredibly powerful way to recall on parts of our lives, and to relive them many years later. But, remembering to record our lives as they are happening can be difficult! 1 Second Everyday helps to remind you to record just one second of each day so that you can look back on it in years to come.
(Download from the App Store or Google Play)
Square eyes
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain
Featuring the wonderful Benedict Cumberbatch, this vibrant and eccentric film details the life of artist Louis Wain as he rose to fame drawing cats in odd poses for the Illustrated London News. Quirky and sentimental, this film offers an engaging variation on the typical biopic story.
(Available on Amazon Prime now)
Treat yourself
Olor candles
Lighting a candle when you finally finish cleaning a room, or when you sit down on the sofa after a long day, can be a deeply soothing experience. The Olor Coastal Wood candle combines a blend of sage, grapefruit, amber, and cedarwood to create a wonderfully warm and inviting atmosphere in any room.
(RRP £30, visit olor.co.uk)
The conversation
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
This internationally recognised day, originally set up by the UN, aims to spread awareness of those facing barriers and challenges as a result of living with a disability. The day also hopes to remind everyone that not all disabilities are visual, and that they can also impact our mental health.
(3 December, visit idpwd.org for more information)
Get going
Spinning class
Indoor stationary cycling, often called spinning, can be a great way to get moving and connect with friends. With regular class members often becoming a little community of their own, spinning is a great hobby to get into if you’re looking to meet new friends.
(Search ‘spinning’ to find a class near you)
To connect with a life coach and discuss ways that you can work on your own mental wellbeing, visit lifecoach-directory.org.uk