While January isn’t my favourite month, over the years I’ve found ways of embracing this time of year – Spring is only just around the corner after all.
For me January is all about looking ahead and making plans: plans for new home projects; plans for the garden and plans for summer holidays. It also helps if you have a little short break to look forward to too, so we are planning a few days away in the Peak District.
January is also a month when I know that I need to nudge myself to get outside regularly for plenty of fresh air and exercise – an early morning walk with the dog and my favourite podcast, or a game of tennis (I’ve never really enjoyed running).
But alongside all of the above, it’s also a month when I like to cut myself a little slack and allow myself to just cosy up at home in the evenings. I cook comforting soups and casseroles, take lots of long hot baths (with all the lovely bath time treats I received for Christmas) and lounge around in my favourite PJs.
Here are ten things I find helpful for surviving the cold dark January days.
- A Wellness Journal: Start the year with a wellness journal to set intentions and track progress, a perfect companion for those new home project plans.
- Outdoor Gear: Invest in quality outdoor gear for those walks and tennis games. A comfortable pair of boots or a waterproof jacket can make all the difference.
- Comfort Food Recipes: Start the day with a warming bowl of porridge or experiment with comforting new soup and casserole recipes. Cooking can be a therapeutic activity on chilly January days.
- Luxurious Bath Essentials: Elevate your bath time with indulgent oils or bath bombs. It’s about making those long hot baths even more relaxing.
- Cosy Loungewear: Update your loungewear collection. A stylish yet comfortable set can be your go-to for those lazy evenings.
- Alpaca or Cashmere Throws: Invest in a high-quality throw, perfect for snuggling up on the sofa.
- Indoor Plants: Bring some greenery indoors. A couple of low-maintenance houseplants can brighten up your space and mood.
- Reading List: Compile a list of books to read. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, reading is a great way to unwind and get inspired.
- Scented Candles or Diffusers: Create a calming ambiance in your home with the aroma of scented candles or essential oil diffusers.
- Mindfulness Apps: Try mindfulness or meditation apps. They can be a great tool for relaxation and mental well-being during the darker months.
If all else fails, I like to make the most of the opportunity to snuggle up with my dog under his favourite alpaca blanket – animals always make things better.
All images by Design Hunter.