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As the summer months approach, it is time to emerge from the winter blues and enjoy the warm weather outside. According to the dating app Hinge, the months of May through July are the most popular months for hooking up with their soulmate. This is because feeling the warmth of spring and absorbing the sunlight puts people in a jovial mood and motivates us to spend time outdoors. However, choosing a date location (especially the first date) can be taxing and daunting. Forunately, psychologist and reporter Veronica Lopez is here to offer suggestions:
Botanical Gardens: Anyone expecting going out to a restaurant or going out for drinks to make this list will be disappointed. Dining and drinking involves a lot of waiting around, which quickly becomes awkward and ruins the first date. Attending a more active location such as a botanical garden is very scenic and encourages more quality time for conversation. It is also a more public setting which only makes it less uncomfortable.
Rock Climbing: For those who prefer a more psychical activity, rock climbing or climbing in general may be an interest. Again, moving around lesses the tension of a date while still spending time together and encouraging one another to push themselves further. For more extreme rock climbing, bouldering is also an option (rock climbing without harnesses)
Comedy Club: It goes without saying that a successful first date should revolve around comfort and positive vibes and humor is one of the best metthods of building such an environment. “A good comedy show or improv show helps lighten the mood and helps couples get to know what amuses each other without direct conversation”, says Lopez. Successful comedians include Kevin Hart, Bill Burr, and Dave Chapelle.
Summer Concert: Whether in the city or a free local concert at the park, listening to music and dancing along helps encourage conversations and great energy. “Couples, especially women, love feeling slightly challenged out of their comfort zone and a concert, especially a singer the couple shares a common interest with, is a fun way to spend time together on the first date”. Lopez notes.
Rage Room: While the above suggestions help ease tension, a rage room completely channels the tension in a (somewhat) positive and understable matter. “Listening to loud rock music and smashing objects with baseball bats and hammers releases anger and frustration built up throughout the work week”, says Lopez. “People dress in heavy clothes which negates the stress of having to dress fancy. Rage rooms are comfortable and cathartic and a great option for worrywarts”.
In the 21st century, the age of “Let’s go out for drinks and get to know each other”, needs to put behind us. Waiting around is uncomfortable and getting blackout drunk makes us say things that we regret later. Incorporating the above suggestions creates a gratifying experience while helping to break the ice because a true relationship should entail activity, comfort, and true support for one another.
