Writer: Trish Lackey, Saje National Training Manager
I’ve been a single lady for a while – I’m pretty sure Beyoncé meant to include me in that 3-girl, bodysuit-clad squad a few years back, but I understand the overlook – and there was a time I would brood over the fact that I didn’t have someone to cuddle with and swap chocolates and roses with on the 14th of February, but that became a thing of the past when I moved to San Francisco and fell in love with February in the outdoors and with my girlfriends. We christened our own Palentine’s weekend (riffing off of Amy Poehler’s character in Parks & Recreation – she had a Galentine’s weekend, but I didn’t want to discriminate in case any of my guy friends ever wanted to partake!). Happily, our weekend consists of things that are incredible for my wellness, both physical and mental. Some activities on our radar from past and present Palentine’s planning:
Road Trips
This February, I’ll be lucky enough to be in a climate that will allow for camping and a road trip – taking a trip on the open road with Fleetwood Mac, juices, seaweed snacks and cameras is tops on the list for me and my two gal pals. What better way to celebrate pure friend love than to Thelma & Louise it for a bit (sans crime)? Crank “Go Your Own Way” and get those arms out the windows! Feel the breeze in your hair, the sun on your face, and sing at the top of your lungs – it’s awesome to be free & wild together.
Hiking / Walking
For anyone on the West Coast this may seem like a no-brainer, however for those of us in Eastern Canada (basically, east of the Rockies), this doesn’t seem like as easy a tip. But if you search walking trails in your city, you will find a WEALTH of parks and trails outside the usual areas, and what better way to connect with your friends than bundling up, getting outside, discovering places in your hometown, and then rewarding yourselves with a hot beverage afterwards?
Dinner at Home
One of the same gals who helped pioneer Palentine’s also shared with me the best New Year’s Eve I ever spent – making a local specialty at home together, and watching the sun set over the Pacific into a new year and a million new possibilities. February can often feel like the bleakest month in Canada because we still have more winter to come, so why not choose to celebrate in the kitchen with foods that are unique and local? I’ll be bringing some Ontario root vegetables to roast, some Ontario wine, and most likely Ontario cheese. Then the three of us will most definitely watch that glorious fiery sunset and carve out some powerful intentions for the rest of the winter and beyond.
Yoga
Never underestimate the power of the mat! Practicing yoga with friends makes our conversations afterwards more grounded, and our post-practice walks to brunch more invigorating and lively. Sweat it out together, and increase your strength, your awareness, and your spiritual connection.