A Cozy Night In

We are now officially in winter and if you are anything like me you appreciate the colder evenings cozied up inside relaxing. It's the time of year for ginormous mugs filled with tea/hot chocolate and over-sized sweaters while nestling up on the couch with a warm blanket. As exciting and lazy as it sounds, sometimes a cozy night in is extremely productive.

I aim for one cozy night in, a week and they consist of the following:

1. Shutting off the mobil. This is really important for relaxing. For me, walking away from my phone and social media is quiet calming. I can waste an evening by surfing the internet like no other, but when it comes to a cozy night in, I want to appreciate that "me" time and make it meaningful. 

2. A thick wooly cardigan/sweater or comfy lounge wear.  Being wrapped up in comfortable clothes just sets the mood for the evening. Warm casual clothing that allows for movement is the utlimate attire for relaxing.  

3. Book (cookbook) or magazine. As of lately I've been reading more books but around this time of year I also enjoy prepping delicious homemade recipes and can be found skimming cookbooks too. My favourite thing to browse are magazines and the holiday editions are wonderful for gift ideas and creative treats. 

4. Listening to records. Nothing beats listening to a record. I mean really listening and taking in all the lyrics. Adam and I have our record player in our living room and it brings us so much joy. The sounds from records totally set the mood, we chat about the artists and sit smiling as we breath in the stories from the words.

5. Sipping on a hot beverage. I'm a peppermint tea kinda girl, but enjoy a great cup of hot chocolate (hold the marshmallows) during the cooler months. A hot beverage warms my insides and further relaxes me, allowing me to enjoy the time quality time spent alone or with others.  

6. Soaking in a warm bath. Every cozy night in, always includes a bath. For me, baths allow me to stop the day for a bit, a feeling I never get from a shower. Laying in the tub is detoxifying and stimulates circulation, allowing for a greater relaxation. 

7. Lighting candles. There are so many great aromas this time of year, and with the nights being longer, having candles light increases the sense of calming. Some of my favourites scents include vanilla, cranberries, cedar and mint. 

8. Good food. On nights where I make it a point to relax, I usually make an easy red or avocado sauce for pasta. Or we choose to order in sushi or thai food. We like to keep it simple but tasty. 

9. Husband and dog. I'm an extremely lucky girl and know that if I'm cuddling with Adam on the couch, my feet will get rubbed. This usually puts me to sleep though. If Adam's not rubbing than Oliver is snuggled up, keeping me warm. Both are wonderful feelings. 

10. Flannel sheets. To end a cozy night in, I'm found settling in my warm, cozy bed. I usually sleep with socks (yep, I'm one of those people) but love taking them off when I have flannel on the bed. Flannel sheets scream warmth and coziness and therefore is the perfect invite to say goodnight and enjoy a wonderful rest. 

Slowing your evenings down and unwinding is best suited with a cozy night in. Focusing on your needs while relaxing is easy to do and should be enjoyed often. Take care of yourself, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holidays!


Happy cuddling.

Erin.