Feel Good Home: 10 Ways to Relish the Darker Days
Winter definitely doesn't spell doom and gloom, and with these tips you can make even the darkest day a delight
Even now, the thought of the impending winter months fills me with excitement. The rosy glow of cheeks, the anticipation of Christmas and all the great excuses to gather with loved ones makes for a very special time of year indeed. But if you find dark, winter days a tad frustrating there are some things you can do at home to bring a little winter cheer. Here are some lovely ideas to get you started…
String up some fairy lights
The right lighting can make a room feel cosy and inviting. Consider combining table lamps and floor lamps with a string of fairy lights too. Their soft, twinkly nature will soften the room, and even on the coldest, darkest night will bring cheer and warmth.
Discover 10 twinkly ways to use fairly lights
The right lighting can make a room feel cosy and inviting. Consider combining table lamps and floor lamps with a string of fairy lights too. Their soft, twinkly nature will soften the room, and even on the coldest, darkest night will bring cheer and warmth.
Discover 10 twinkly ways to use fairly lights
Whip up a hot chocolate
Drinking a hot chocolate in winter months is certainly one of the plus points of the season. If you’re going to indulge, why not go all out with all the trimmings - perhaps even by making a hot chocolate station complete with candy canes and marshmallows.
Drinking a hot chocolate in winter months is certainly one of the plus points of the season. If you’re going to indulge, why not go all out with all the trimmings - perhaps even by making a hot chocolate station complete with candy canes and marshmallows.
Tuck into a hearty casserole
Another winter treat for the tastebuds is a classic casserole or stew. Perfect for making ahead of time using seasonal and root vegetables, leave it cooking throughout the day and it’ll be ready for you when you get home in the evening.
Another winter treat for the tastebuds is a classic casserole or stew. Perfect for making ahead of time using seasonal and root vegetables, leave it cooking throughout the day and it’ll be ready for you when you get home in the evening.
Clean the house from top to bottom
I know many folk will not see cleaning as a winter task to be relished, but bear with me! During the summer months, staying in doing household chores is exactly that, a chore. But when it’s cold and dark out, suddenly getting the chores done is less of a struggle. To make cleaning a cinch, consider tackling your home room by room, working from top to bottom.
Find out how to stylishly integrate a laundry space into your home
I know many folk will not see cleaning as a winter task to be relished, but bear with me! During the summer months, staying in doing household chores is exactly that, a chore. But when it’s cold and dark out, suddenly getting the chores done is less of a struggle. To make cleaning a cinch, consider tackling your home room by room, working from top to bottom.
Find out how to stylishly integrate a laundry space into your home
Curl up under a blanket with a good book
A lit fire, a blanket and a good book - I just want to dive into this scene right now. When the nights draw in and the thought of going out is perhaps less appealing, why not stay in and get cosy? And during winter, there’s not much better than staying warm and toasty.
A lit fire, a blanket and a good book - I just want to dive into this scene right now. When the nights draw in and the thought of going out is perhaps less appealing, why not stay in and get cosy? And during winter, there’s not much better than staying warm and toasty.
Dim the lights and enjoy a film
When the lights go down outside, why not dim the lights inside too? Sink down on to the sofa with a good movie and your favourite people. Just add popcorn to complete the fun.
When the lights go down outside, why not dim the lights inside too? Sink down on to the sofa with a good movie and your favourite people. Just add popcorn to complete the fun.
Light a candle
Winter and candles are a winning combination. The warmth they exude coupled with the ambience they create is nothing short of wonderful. Try clustering several candles together on a plate or in a hearth. Then just put your feet up and relax.
Winter and candles are a winning combination. The warmth they exude coupled with the ambience they create is nothing short of wonderful. Try clustering several candles together on a plate or in a hearth. Then just put your feet up and relax.
Bake up treats for others (and yourself!)
I’m of the opinion that cake is always a good idea, especially on days which need a little extra cheer. If you’re a little healthier minded than me, you could try making jam or concocting sloe gin ready to give out as Christmas gifts, thus getting ahead of the game there too. A win-win situation indeed.
What do you do when the dark nights draw in? Share your favourite winter pursuits in the comments box below.
I’m of the opinion that cake is always a good idea, especially on days which need a little extra cheer. If you’re a little healthier minded than me, you could try making jam or concocting sloe gin ready to give out as Christmas gifts, thus getting ahead of the game there too. A win-win situation indeed.
What do you do when the dark nights draw in? Share your favourite winter pursuits in the comments box below.
While a relaxing bath is to be advised at any time of year, when there is a nip in the air a warm bath will be extra special. Make it a truly sumptuous affair by wrapping up in a fluffy robe afterwards.
See 10 dazzling tubs for an unforgettable soak