As the seasons change and the weather turns cold, we need to find new ways to lift our spirits and help us cope during these challenging times. Winter can be a daunting prospect at the best of times but this year we’re facing a more difficult situation with many of us forced to stay home. The usual highlights have been curtailed: socialising limited, celebrations cancelled, holidays put on hold. The normal events that define this time of year and bring pleasure through the darker days, have been affected. It is inevitable that we’ll react to this change and our resilience will be tested. Rather than fighting the inevitable feelings of sadness and dismay, we need to acknowledge them and treat ourselves with greater care. It is even more important to surround ourselves with comforts. Here are some of the changes I will be making over the next few weeks to help me stay positive.
Adding light
Our mood is affected by the diminishing light levels at this time of year. It’s noticeable that the days feel gloomy and we begin to miss the positive benefits of a daily dose of sunshine. Motivation is difficult and our energy levels decline. It’s therefore beneficial to maximise light at home to compensate. This year I’ll be increasing the number of candles around the house. I will also be lighting them at all times of day. The comfort of a living light first thing in a morning is a positive start to the day and makes a weekday breakfast on the go seem a little less mundane. Storm lanterns in the hallway create a warm welcome. I bring them into the dining room for a more intimate atmosphere. As soon as the light dips, wherever I am sitting, whatever time of day, I find the glow of a candle uplifts the moment.
A candlelit breakfast
a warm welcome
bring candles to the table
Winter foliage
Normally Christmas doesn’t arrive in our home until the second weekend of December to give my Birthday cards time to enjoy a week of admiration. This year I feel the need to add hints of sparkle early to lift everyone’s spirits. I will be combining trailing lights with simple displays of fir tree branches, eucalyptus and white berries. Bowls full of the woody scent of pine cones and candles surrounded by sprigs of rosemary create simple but fragrant displays. The evergreen foliage gives a hint of the festive season to come and prepares the foundations for the explosion of Christmas colour next month.
a single stem
sprigs for display
natural textures
Layers of comfort
When you have a dog there is a tendency to accumulate blankets to save the furniture from muddy paws. I’m always on the lookout for inexpensive soft, embracing throws that can be draped over my interiors. Layering blankets over the arm of a sofa, on the corner of a footstool or on the back of a chair immediately brings a sense of warmth and intimacy. Don’t save them for the lounge. I always add fur cushions and throws to the bed to create a haven of cosiness.
add fur to the bed
share a blanket
everyday objects
By surrounding yourself with everyday items that provide moments of selfcare you can subtly create an atmosphere of well-being. Drinks on a tray, a bowl of nuts or a pile of books and magazines within easy reach, can remind us that there are simple pleasures to be enjoyed during these long, dark days. The simple act of sharing snacks, picking up a photobook of memories or lighting a fire can all help to foster contentment.
books to hand
the promise of a fire
Let me help you style your home for Winter. Email me at info@fionahodgesdesign.co.uk