With restrictions easing and lifting in many provinces and states, spring is in the air, and many of us are feeling ready to let the outside world back into our lives.

While some medical students complete their residency in the same city as their medical schooling, many more venture out to a new hospital in a new city. As an adult, it can be hard to make friends, especially when much of your time is spent at work! So this week, we're looking at the best ways to make friends in new places:

1.The friend of my friend is my… new friend?

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to make connections in a new city is to leverage the connections you may already have. If you know well in advance that you're heading out to a new city, consider asking your friends if they know anyone in that area. If they do, and are willing to set up an introduction, you have a plan to meet at least one person and get the lay of the land. Bonus points if they invite you to a party!

2. Familiarity breeds friendship

A great way to meet new people is to establish spots to create connections - identify cafes, restaurants and local shops that match your interests and personality, and make it a habit to turn up there regularly. Coffee shops often have bulletin boards advertising events for local groups, and hobby shops are excellent places to ask about practice groups in the area! If you love to run, ask about local run clubs at the running goods shop, if you love to read, ask at a bookshop about open-access book clubs. These interactions can definitely be daunting, but the reward is worth it!

3. Sweat Socially 

Running, cycling, and walking are all excellent ways to improve your cardiovascular health - but could also improve your social life! Running clubs are an excellent way to meet like-minded people, and even seeing the same folks on a regular basis each day can lead to becoming acquaintances.

4. Give back to your new community

An excellent way to join in a communal activity without any foreplanning is to sign up to volunteer for a local organization! They take care of the organizing, planning and activities - all you need to do is show up. Beyond the social advantages of meeting new folks while doing an activity together, you get to serve your new community and contribute to improving the lives of those around you. Not a bad return for your time!

5. Go online, to get offline

It's been said before, and it bears being said again! The internet can be a really great place to make friends. Check your local Groups tab on Facebook to find community groups based on your neighborhood, city, or lifestyles that are relevant to you! If you see a post from someone else new in town, engage with them and strike up a conversation!

We hope you had a lovely Valentine's day surrounded by love, whatever that means for you. With lots of love, and thinking warm thoughts, we'll see you next week!