Winter is not over. It might go on for another two months for all we know (probably not, tho). We still have time to enjoy the cold weather with a slow cozy afternoon every now and again. So today I'm sharing with you my favorite tips for a cozy time with yourself.
Of course, you can always spend your slow afternoon with someone else, your sibling, your significant other, your pet, it doesn't matter. What matters is creating a cozy environment to relax and recharge.
1. Scented candles
I am a huge fan of scented candles and I own a bunch. I like to light one every afternoon, right after I'm done working for the day. It helps get rid of unwanted odors (if you've been cooking for instance) and create a cozy environment that smells good. A good scent always makes me feel relaxed on top of everything else.
2. Hot beverages
I'm a huge fan of hot beverages, and I always make myself one when I relax in the afternoon. On some days it might be green tea, chamomile tea or hot chocolate, depending on my mood, but drinking something warm is always relaxing. If you prefer coffee or a seasoned drink, that's up to you. Personally, I wouldn't drink coffee late in the afternoon, since I like to go to bed early.
3. Books
The best slow afternoon go-to is a good book. To quote His Majesty, the King of Horror, Stephen Edwin: Books are a uniquely portable magic (On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft). Reading might not always be relaxing, depending on the content of the book, but it helps you recharge and travel to a world you otherwise wouldn't have the chance to be. I suggest reading fiction during the afternoon or evening, as to minimize information dump. When you want to enter a cozy space you don't want your brain to be constantly working on collecting information.
4. Something creative
If you're like me, you probably want to have a creative outlet to express yourself. Sometimes I like to spend the afternoon being creative. Either I would try a new recipe or a DIY project for home décor. Sometimes I would draw or play the piano. It always depends on the day. If you have hobbies that are not creative, like listening to podcasts, this is a perfect time to spend on those. Whatever the case, do something that brings you joy and coziness. If you choose to spend this cozy afternoon with someone else, you could choose to share an activity you both enjoy, like playing a board game. Although, I would argue there in no greater feeling than spending your time with your SO in silence as you both read books next to each other.
5. Blankets/sweaters/hoodies
I'm a blanket person. When I read a book I crouch over on a corner of the couch, covered up in a blanket. Of course, I can't have a blanket on me if I'm cooking, so I'd go for a hoodie. Wear whatever feels comfortable. Not your pajamas, though, don't get too cozy (unless you're aiming for a nap).
6. Short nap
Taking a short power nap of 15 minutes is a great way to start your slow afternoon. But taking a longer nap sets you up for the trap of losing your entire afternoon. So be careful with this one.
7. Cozy music
I'm a huge fan of rock music, but I wouldn't choose to listen to it when I'm relaxing. I'd go for classical or jazz, just to set the mood for the coziness. Sometimes I'd even listen to slow indie pop music.
8. Low lighting
Lighting is the key to creating a cozy atmosphere. The right light can create warmth in your space, which in turn warms your heart and relaxes your muscles as you enter the slow and cozy afternoon.
9. Screen-free time
It is essential to take advantage of the time you spend this cozy afternoon and stay away from screens. Whether it's your computer or your phone or TV, turn those distractions off and spend some quality time away from devices.
10. Reflect and Reset
One of my favorite things to do every afternoon is reflecting on the day. You could meditate or pray if that works better for you. For me, however, it's always been writing. My last "activity" on a cozy afternoon is reflecting through journaling and planning my next day accordingly. That way I have everything figured out for the next day and I can reset without being lost in my thoughts.
I hope you find these ideas helpful and you could spend the rest of your afternoon in a slow, cozy and relaxing mood, so you can recharge for the next day. How do you spend your cozy winter afternoons? I'd love to find new ideas.
Comments