With wetter winters increasingly becoming the norm across Britain, it is essential for everyone, except perhaps farmers and flood victims, to develop effective coping strategies to maintain their spirits. The current weather has sparked widespread complaints, and understandably so. In places like York, the river levels are rising once more, and local councils have resorted to fencing off large puddles in parks for health and safety reasons, often to public mockery. From soggy letterboxes to cars growing moss on the inside, the pervasive dampness is undeniable.
Why We Need to Adapt to the Rain
While farmers face catastrophic losses and flood victims endure genuine hardship, such as the residents of Cardinham, North Wyke, and Astwood Bank who recently suffered through forty consecutive days of rain, the rest of us dealing with merely "quite wet" conditions might benefit from a more resilient mindset. Given the accelerating impacts of climate breakdown, these wet spells are likely to become more frequent, making it crucial to find ways to cope positively. Here are some practical strategies to help you embrace the rain.
Romanticise the Rainfall
Romanticising everyday experiences is a popular trend, and rain offers a perfect opportunity. With its brooding skies and lashing droplets, rain is inherently dramatic. Lean into this by wearing ethereal clothing, playing atmospheric music like Sigur Rós, and gazing enigmatically at the downpour, much like a character from a Netflix mystery series.
Utilise Rain as a Wellness Hack
In 2024, the BBC highlighted that negative ions generated by rainfall may help relieve stress and boost energy levels. While this might sound like influencer jargon, rain is free and accessible. Consider adding this natural benefit to your gratitude journal as a simple wellness practice.
Create Your Own Rain Song
Inspiration can be drawn from great rain-themed songs by artists like Prince, Eurythmics, Garbage, and Rihanna. Why not compose your own? Rain offers excellent rhyming opportunities—think bane, pain, slain—setting the stage for a creative outlet. Plus, be thankful it is not literally raining men, as we already have enough of those around.
Engage in Craft Activities
Japanese teru teru bōzu dolls are simple DIY charms made from white tissue paper and red string, traditionally hung to summon good weather. They are easy to create and add a touch of whimsy to your home, potentially lifting your mood during dreary days.
Contemplate Historical Context
Reflect on the Carnian Pluvial Episode, a period of significant global warming millions of years ago when it rained extensively. If sauropods could endure such conditions, surely we can manage a few more weeks of British rain with a bit of fortitude.
Invent Personal Rain Rituals
Throughout history, cultures have developed rituals to ward off bad weather, from Roman practices involving owls to Japanese festivals with conch shells. Create your own less disturbing ritual, such as meditation or burning incense, to foster a sense of control and calm.
Reassess Your Rain Wardrobe
The adage "there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes" holds truth. Consider investing in fun, practical gear like ponchos in playful patterns, or even embrace the liberating idea of dancing in the rain, inspired by 90s dance tracks, though perhaps keep your clothes on for practicality.
Treat Rain as an ASMR Experience
The tapping sounds of rain on windows can provide a soothing Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) effect, offering a free, ad-free auditory treat that many find relaxing and enjoyable.
Channel Frustration into Activism
Use rainy days to reflect on broader environmental issues, such as water companies releasing raw sewage due to inadequate infrastructure, or political rollbacks on climate policies. This can motivate you to take action, whether through street protests or advocacy, all while carrying an umbrella for practical support.
By adopting these strategies, we can not only cope with but also find joy in the increasing rainfall, turning a potential nuisance into an opportunity for creativity, wellness, and positive change.
