The power of picnics

I have many happy memories of picnics as a child. This was our default option for a day out. An old groundsheet spread on the long grass, boxes of sandwiches, packets of crisps, fruit and cake, glasses of juice… The novelty of eating outside where the usual ‘table manners’ do not apply felt fun and freeing. As soon as we had finished eating, my siblings and I would run off to play or explore whilst our parents would sit and chat.

Of course, sharing a meal together with friends or family is a social activity and as social beings, this is really good for our wellbeing. However, there is something about taking this activity out into nature and having a picnic that elevates the power of this type of shared meal even more. As well as the social interactions, you are getting the benefit of being out in nature. Even in a city, having a picnic in an urban park, a greenspace, or overlooking a blue space (a lake, river or the sea), you will still get that added benefit. We know that we get positive wellbeing benefits from just looking at green and blue space.

All you need is something to eat and drink, somewhere pleasant to sit out in nature, at least one other person to come along and (ideally) some dry weather. All of these factors can be varied of course, so every picnic you have will be a unique experience. It is worth considering who will be coming along and find a location that will suit your group and the type of activities you might like to do after. Are you looking for an open area with a view, or somewhere more intimate like a woodland or a garden?

Whether you are just sitting on the grass sharing a simple packet of sandwiches with a friend, or having a more sumptuous affair with the full luxurious picnic hamper on a tartan rug, or something in between, it is more to do with the company, location and the weather that makes for an enjoyable experience. Food always seems to taste better outside!

Next time the weather is half decent, why not pack up some food and drink and a picnic blanket and head out to your favourite local greenspace with some friends or the family and enjoy a picnic together. Once you’ve enjoyed your meal and tidied everything away, why not kick back for a while and enjoy your surroundings. You could lie back and watch the clouds float by or listen to the birdsong, or if you’re feeling a little more energetic, go for a walk or do a scavenger hunt with the kids. The perfect weekend activity to unwind!

‘There are few things so pleasant as a picnic eaten in perfect comfort.’ — W. Somerset Maugham