Winter is a beautiful season. We can stay in, get lost in one of our favorite books, and indulge in a hot bath. However, it’s also a time when we rush to get everything done – from prepping our home to buying Xmas gifts. This special year 2020, though, gives us a unique chance to slow down and stress out a little less. Here are my best tips on how to enjoy this winter and avoid the end-of-year rush.
No. 1: Turn Your Home Into a Sanctuary
Winter is the best season for slowing down and savoring the little luxuries in life. So, dig out your favorite blanket, stock up on teas, light up some scented candles. Enjoy what makes you feel comfortable and helps you unwind. And do all of it in style. Turn your home into a beautiful sanctuary – for you, your family, and friends who come to visit. Try to keep all those external influences out that negatively affect your mood – and if it’s only for a few pleasant moments.
Need more inspiration on how to create a ‘homey’ atmosphere? This post is for you:
No. 2: Prepare Comforting Foods + Drinks
Winters tend to be cold and grey. Well, at least where I live. But why not turn this fact into a positive one and prepare delicious, comforting food and drinks? From tasty soups to steaming stews, from fresh ginger tea to decadent hot chocolate. Take advantage of staying at home and experiment a bit. And then, snuggle up and savor your daily dose of comfort in your peaceful sanctuary.
No. 3: Experiment With Winter Outfits
I had always been a lover of summer clothes. Until I discovered luxury fabrics for my winter outfits. Now, instead of feeling like a snowman in stiff and chunky knitwear, I became a pro in layering. It’s amazing how warm a silk blouse keeps you when it’s layered under a light-weight cashmere jumper. Winter is the perfect time to experiment with outfits. So, play with multiple layers and let natural materials such as silk, cashmere, or wool hug your body. (Here’re some tips on how to take care of these luxury fabrics.)
Cold winter days are also excellent for decluttering and planning your wardrobe. Check these posts for support and inspiration:
- Wardrobe Decluttering a la Marie Kondo: Pros and Cons
- Wardrobe Planning: Why It’s Worth Doing It and How to Get Started
- Wardrobe Planning: Recap + Free Printable Worksheets
- 10 Proven Rules for a Well-Curated Wardrobe
No. 4: Allow Things to Be Imperfect
For many, winter is the synonym for Xmas and New Year’s Eve. For me, it certainly is. I always get excited prepping for this special time of the year. But I learned that everything doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t matter if your home is spotlessly clean. You don’t need to get personalized presents for every single family member and all your acquaintances. Stop stressing out. We can share so much more love when we learn to slow down and enjoy this wonderful season.
No. 5: Connect With Others
Winter is when we all come together and spend some time with our loved ones. This year, probably in our virtual living room, aka zoom. 2020 is different, I know. Nonetheless, we’ll find ways to connect with our friends and family and share a laugh (or a tear) over the phone, online, or, if possible, in person. Spending quality time with those you love is the most valuable thing you can do – for yourself and for others.
And there you have it – my best slow-living tips on how to enjoy this winter. I’m sure you’ll find some more inspiration in this list, too:
Let’s make it a priority this winter to unplug and unwind. Instead of rushing to get everything done, let us be grateful for what and who we already have in your lives. Winter gives us a unique opportunity to slow down, focus on ourselves, and practice mindfulness. So put on the kettle, snuggle up with a nice cup of tea, and enjoy (even) this winter!
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What are your plans to appreciate this wonderful season? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!
My husband and I are alone this year. We aren’t dressing up for Christmas day but will dress casual for a change and spend the day opening gifts and cooking a wonderful meal together. We will do the same on New year’s day. I am from the South so we will have the same meal on New Years Day as always. That is ham, black eye pea’s, greens and cornbread, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s! May we all remember the reason for the season is Christ birth! God Bless! Thank you for all the hard work you do on this website. Looking forward to seeing what you do for us in 2021!
Thank you so much for your nice words, Natalie! Working on my website helps me focus on the good things in life (especially after watching the news these days), and I will certainly continue in 2021. Stay safe and well! All the best wishes to you and your loved ones. Christine