Chapter 1: A New Life in the UK

Having recently relocated from Australia to the United Kingdom, one of the most common inquiries I encounter is, "Why did you move here?" It's a valid question, especially considering the frequent remarks about the superior weather in Australia, often accompanied by comments like, "I’m planning to move there next year." This sentiment is particularly prevalent among the younger crowd.

It’s a well-known stereotype that British people have a penchant for grumbling about the weather, especially the rain. After spending several months in the UK, I can confirm that I’ve heard this lament numerous times—almost daily! The reasons behind this tendency to complain about the weather are varied:

• Its unpredictability, which can be quite bothersome,
• The potential for significant disruption when it pours,
• Some suggest it even serves as a social icebreaker, giving people something to talk about.

Currently, during summer, there's a desire to soak up as much sunshine as possible, which is completely understandable. Enjoying the outdoors and basking in the sun can be invigorating. However, it’s important to recognize that rain is an inevitable part of life here. In fact, the UK sees about 170 rainy days a year, a figure that has been on the rise since the 1960s. While temperatures may be increasing, rainfall is also becoming more frequent.

As I read various articles discussing this phenomenon, I found myself reflecting, “I actually enjoy the rain.” But why is that?

> "The British have a reputation for disliking rain, but what if it’s not so bad?"

Section 1.1: Finding Joy in the Rain

I hail from a fairly temperate region, and my English mother often expresses her preference for warm, sunny locales over cold, rainy ones. Growing up, I spent my holidays along the stunning New Zealand coastline, where the typical image of Christmas involves sun and sand.

Rather than focusing on why the British have a tendency to complain about rain, I began to ponder why I didn’t share that sentiment. It turns out, there might be a reason for my different outlook.

After leaving the army over a decade ago, I expressed on social media how I missed walking in the rain. At that time, I was recovering from surgery and not yet able to hike. One person suggested that what I truly missed was the camaraderie of my fellow soldiers, which resonated with me, but my partner at the time insisted, “No, he just enjoys the rain.”

Upon reflection, I realized she was right. There is something uniquely comforting about rain. It’s well-documented that weather can affect our mood; for many, rain triggers feelings of frustration or sadness. For me, however, it offers a sense of tranquility, a sentiment I believe many can relate to. Interestingly, this appreciation is not universal—some people truly adore the rain.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Pluviophile

There’s a term for those who cherish the rain: Pluviophiles. Derived from the Latin word for rain, "Pluvius," this label resonates with me, and perhaps it does with you as well.

Chapter 2: The Unique Traits of Rain Lovers

Rain enthusiasts are often characterized as creative, introspective, and sensitive. As I sit here writing (or speaking, if you follow the link), I can see how this applies to me. However, there’s also a lively and extroverted side to my personality that doesn’t fully align with this description.

Interestingly, people with ADHD often find solace in the rain as well. For me, the stillness that comes during a rain shower, even one that is chaotic and torrential, creates a manageable atmosphere. Individuals with ADHD frequently find that the steady, calming sound of rain can serve as a form of white noise, helping to ease their racing thoughts. While this doesn’t necessarily help with tasks, I do find it soothing when I’m out and about.