HOW TO Create a feel-good space at home in winter
Late February is a funny old time of year. We’ve had some lovely bright sunshiny days recently here in the UK, but the sky has been the colour of concrete for weeks and we’ve had heavy, low lying fog here in East Sussex that sometimes hangs in the air until lunchtime. I still feel the need to be coddled from winter’s mizzle and cold winds as I slowly start to feel the gentle pull of spring’s hopefulness. Here are some of the ways that I like to turn my home into a sanctuary while I get ready to fully emerge from hibernation.
SETTING THE MOOD
TURNING OFF THE BIG LIGHTS
Having overhead lights on in the house when it’s dark and overcast outside is tiring for our eyes. Instead, I like to opt for low lights, fairy lights and candles. Lighting candles during the day (especially scented ones) can make even the must mundane chores feel more pleasant. And the glow of a candle at the breakfast will bring magic to the table any time of year.
staying snug by the fire
a recipe for comfort
When the cold sets in there’s nothing like something warm and comforting to come home to. I like to pile up some cushions and settle in with a bowl of root veg soup studded with pearl barley or a mug of velvety hot chocolate by the fire.
180g of dark chocolate chips melted into 200ml of warm oat or almond milk, sweetened with a squeeze of honey or maple syrup makes enough for two good-sized cups.
make SOME SPACE
Clearing Clutter
It may not sounds like a very exciting way to spend your time, but taking 30 minutes out of your day to declutter and refresh a neglected shelf or nook can make a huge impact on your mental state. There's no need to overhaul a whole room: start by clearing a small space, updating details, and switching in fresh pieces.
A bedside table is a great place to start. It’s one of the first things you see in the morning. I don’t like mine too cluttered, so every few weeks or so I clear down the pile of books and various detritus that have accumulated and replace them with things I love: a small vase of fresh flowers, a plant in a pretty pot or a scented candle.
SOCIALISE GENTLY
make it magical
I like to elevate smaller gatherings with a pot of stew served by candlelight or a cosy family breakfast. Hanging some fairly lights and layering the table with natural textures and tactile handmade ceramics creates a quietly warming vibe. If you’re a baker, make some ginger loaf or biscuits and invite a friend over for a pot of tea. If you don’t feel like going out, make it feel more special staying in!
REPLACing WILLPOWER WITH INTENTION
FINDING BALANCE
I think simply stopping is an important aspect of keeping ourselves balanced and calm. Making incense part of your daily routine can help. Lighting incense is a great way of setting an intention for the day, and to help wind down in the evening.
Scent from natural aromatics triggers a relaxing effect on the mind and body, and this small act of ceremony acts as a circuit breaker. I like to make a quiet space and use the spirit-lifting scent of burning incense for an an instant pick-me-up.
BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
THE POWER OF PLANTS
We know the spending time outdoors in nature can help our wellbeing, but even looking at indoor plants and flowers can bring wellbeing benefits and help banish negative thoughts. I find nurturing indoor plants, and growing micro herbs and flowers from seed on a window sill to be deeply rewarding, and mood-altering.
