Explore Mzansi this Galentine’s Day: where to go and fun things to do
Building lasting friendships is a vital aspect of adulthood, particularly for women. In a society where feminine interests are often dismissed as frivolous, it is essential to recognise the profound value that female friendships bring to our lives.
According to Danielle Bayard Jackson, a friendship coach, these relationships offer myriad of health benefits, including emotional support, stress reduction and increased self-awareness.
As we approach February, a month traditionally associated with love, it’s important to remember that while Valentine’s Day focuses on romantic relationships, celebrating female friendships is equally significant.
This is where Galentine’s Day comes into play. Observed on February 13, Galentine’s Day is a relatively new holiday dedicated to honouring the incredible women in our lives.
It’s a time to express appreciation and love for our friends, and what better way to celebrate than by engaging in fun and meaningful activities together?
Here are some delightful activities you can do with your girls to celebrate Galentine’s Day:
Ceramics painting at Clay Café Maggies Farm
Ceramics painting is a wonderful art form that allows you to express your creativity while enjoying the company of friends.
This activity is not only fun but also beneficial for mental health, promoting stress reduction, tension release, non-verbal self-expression and enhanced creativity.
For those looking to unleash their artistic side, consider spending a day at Clay Café on Maggies Farm in Lanseria.
This charming café is just a short drive from key areas such as Sandton, Midrand, and Fourways, making it easily accessible. At Clay Café, you can indulge in a unique experience that merges art and food.
With good company, you can create one-of-a-kind memorabilia that you will cherish for years to come. Prices for ceramics range from R200 to R800, which includes paint and glazes.
Painting sessions typically last about two hours or longer if you choose to enjoy a meal during your visit.
Relaxing yoga session at The Yoga Room Cape Town
Yoga is a mind and body practice that promotes strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.
It can also help manage pain and reduce stress, making it an ideal activity to share with friends. Various styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation, creating a holistic experience.
Located in Vredehoek, Cape Town, The Yoga Room is a welcoming and inclusive yoga studio that embraces individuals at all levels.
Living by the motto, “A place to come to just as you are”, it reflects their commitment to creating a safe space for everyone to explore their yoga practice.
A class starts from R190 per person, making it an affordable option for a rejuvenating experience with your friends. Sharing a yoga session can deepen your bond while promoting relaxation and mindfulness.
Pilates date at Peach Pilates, Durban
Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on body conditioning and precise movements, originally developed for dancers to recover from injuries.
Today, it is embraced by people of all backgrounds for its numerous health benefits, including improved muscle tone, stability and flexibility.
Why not organise a Pilates date with your girls?
Peach Pilates in Durban North offers a welcoming environment where you and your friends can challenge yourselves and inspire one another to lead balanced lifestyles.
They provide a variety of classes tailored to accommodate individual needs and fitness levels.
The instructors are dedicated to helping you build great posture, develop lean muscles, and find balance between strength and flexibility.
Duet tailored classes start from R550 per session per person, while trio sessions cost R485 each. This is a fantastic way to bond while working towards your fitness goals.
Rejuvenating spa day
A spa day is the perfect blend of fun and relaxation, allowing you to pamper yourselves while strengthening your friendships.
There’s nothing quite like the indulgence of massages, facials, saunas, and pools to help you connect more intimately with your friends.
Not only will you feel refreshed, but you’ll also leave with a boost of energy, almost as if you’ve enjoyed a mini holiday.
For those in Durban, consider visiting Signature Spa at The Capital Zimbali. This luxurious spa focuses on African wellness, offering ultimate relaxation and exclusive indulgence.
They provide customised packages, an African natural oil scents bar, and tailored treatments, including access to a Himalayan salt room and poolside treatments.
If you’re in Cape Town, The Grotto Spa is an excellent choice for nourishing your body, mind, and soul.
This serene sanctuary also offers a Valentine’s Day special starting from R1445 per person, making it an ideal destination for a rejuvenating spa day with your friends.
For those in Johannesburg, Farmhouse58’s Wellness58 provides the perfect escape for a spa date.
They offer a range of massages, including Swedish, Shiatsu, and deep tissue massages, starting from R870 per person. This is a wonderful opportunity to unwind and reconnect with your friends in a tranquil setting.
As we celebrate Galentine’s Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the importance of female friendships in our lives.
Engaging in activities that promote bonding, creativity, and relaxation can significantly enhance these relationships.
Whether you choose to paint ceramics, practice yoga, enjoy a Pilates session, or indulge in a spa day, the key is to cherish the time spent with the incredible women in your life.
So gather your girls, plan a fun-filled day, and celebrate the beautiful connections that enrich your life.