#LifeLoves: It’s a family affair

Family playing board games

This Valentine’s Day we’re celebrating all Life Loves. Yes, we know your snookum pie is the best thing since sliced bread, but what other areas of your life should you be showing some love to this Valentine’s?

We’ve already discovered the positive impact of self care, satisfying your wanderlust and keeping your living area in order. Today we’re talking about family relationships. How does good old fashioned family time impact our mental wellbeing?

We’ll also be sharing our favourite family discount codes and deals to help you round the gang up even on the tightest budget. Plus, find out how to win big in our #LifeLoves competition at the end of the post.

When was the last time you got your folks together for some good old fashioned family bonding? A recent survey by the British Heart Foundation found that one in 10 families are spending less time together than ever before due to the stresses of modern-day life.

How can we start dedicating more time to those close to us (yes, even on a budget)? And what are the benefits of doing so?

Host a family games night

Family having a night in

Who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition in the form of Mario Kart or Uno? Hosting a family games or film night is a great way to build stronger relationships with your nearest and dearest. Sharing real-life experiences with your family encourages a sense of belonging incomparable to anything else.

In fact, award-winning therapist, Sally Baker from Working on the Body says: “In the last couple of years, there has been a steep rise in the popularity of board games for families to play together across the generations as more and more families limit tech time for real connection with each other too.”

Stock up on your favourite board games from Argos, Zavvi or Magic Madhouse to get the fun started. Why not order in some Domino’s pizza and get some beers from Sainsbury’s, Honest Brew or Beer Hawk too? Throw in a healthy dose of competition and some cheesy pop music for the ultimate cheap family night in.

Home is where the heart is, and where the games will be too – so don’t forget to make your home cosy. Here’s how to do it, for less.

Go on a family day out

Daughter sitting on dad's shoulders

Going on a family adventure doesn’t have to cost the earth. Plus, it’s a great way to take time out of a busy schedule to invest in your closest relationships. As well as strengthening bonds, the experts at LifeAdvancer state that family days out nurture positive behaviours for kids and create important memories.

If you’ve got little ones in tow, treating them to a fun-filled family day out is a great way for them to carry on learning outside the classroom.

If you’re looking to cut costs on family fun, don’t miss Savoo’s exclusive discount code for 15% off February tours at Toot Bus. Likewise, places like Legoland and London Zoo often run promotions for discounted tickets. Why not look for epic deals on everything from the idyllic Kew Gardens to spooky London Dungeons at Picniq?

Embrace the great outdoors and go camping

Family on a camping trip

Portable stove? Check. Inflatable mattress? Check. A one way ticket to family fun? Double check! Ditching, y’know, a roof and getting lost in the great outdoors provides an excellent opportunity for families to strengthen their communication and teamwork skills.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, camping is more than just good for the soul. Family camping trips increase imagination and cognitive focus, leading to longer, healthier lives.

Exchanging stories over the campfire is the perfect way to share opinions, shared values, experience and wisdom with the younger generation of the family. Get wildlife ready and stock up on camping essentials at Halfords, Cotswold Outdoor, Orvis or Argos.

Get crafty

Child playing with paints

It’s easy to think of arts and crafts as child’s play (excuse the pun). However, research has shown that engaging in creative activities like painting, sculpting, drawing and photography has tremendous benefits for our mental health and overall wellbeing. The experts over at Mindfood have discovered surprising benefits of getting creative that go way beyond simply enjoyment.

According to the American Journal of Public Health, engaging with art can significantly reduce stress and anxiety while creating a sense of mental clarity or meditation.

Combining art with the benefits of family time can prove hugely advantageous for family members of all ages. Check out the current offers for Hobbycraft, Create and Craft and The Works to get an awesome deal on your crafting essentials for wholesome family fun without breaking the bank.

Try something new with an experience day

Two people skydiving

Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary. Not only are you facing your fears head-on, but you’re also stimulating creativity and getting to know yourself better. Why not share the experience with those closest to you to reinforce these benefits in your family relationships too?

Alex Lickerman, founder of ImagineMD told Psychology Today: “Trying something new requires courage, keeps you from becoming bored, and forces you to grow as a person.”

Whether white water rafting floats your boat or a high octane skydive sounds more your kind of thing, trying new things gives us a sense of achievement and opens possibilities for us to enjoy something new too.

Couple these awesome benefits with the positives of quality family time and you’re onto a winner. Keep your eyes peeled for currents deals at Virgin Experience Days, Wowcher, Red Letter Days and Buyagift. Say goodbye to your comfort zone and hello to stronger family ties and boosted mood.

Consider getting a pet

If you haven’t got one already you’ve probably become immune to the constant request from your children to get a pet. Obviously, owning a pet is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly, but pets can help boost your mood, adding a much-loved addition to your family. Before choosing a pet consider your lifestyle and your needs to help you choose one that suits your family.

Family time is crucial for those in need. Give free donations this Valentine’s

As well as being a great way to look after your wellbeing, family time is important for those in need too – especially children. Every time you save money with our discount codes and deals, you’ll be raising free donations for your chosen charity. Find out more about how it works.

Get your chance to win £150 for you and a charity this Valentine’s Day

Buck the trend and celebrate the love you have for life and your passions this Valentine’s Day. After all, your partner isn’t the only thing in your life that deserves time, effort and commitment. Fancy winning £150 for yourself and for a charity this Valentine’s?

Simply head over to Savoo’s Facebook and Twitter pages and tell us your favourite way to treat yourself on a budget. Don’t forget to like the competition post and include #LoveSavoo in your answer. In the meantime, take a look at our Valentine’s deals and discount codes to find some epic Valentine’s bargains.

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