HUNKER DOWN
Baby, it’s cold outside. So why bother venturing out? Stay indoors, indulge in some creature comforts and cocoon in style
10 ways to cocoon in style
1 After-dinner drink
Whatever your poison, whether it’s a cup of hot chocolate or glass of Central Otago pinot noir, make a communal drink part of your winter routine to signal that it’s okay to do nothing more than be mindful and enjoy a warming drink in a beautiful pottery cup.
2 Hearth-warming fire
A cosy night in by the fireplace is the stuff of winter legends. And, if you can’t have a real fire because of local council regulations, a wood burner or gas fire with lifelike flames could be the go. Otherwise, step outside and stoke up the fire pit, meditate on that burning fire and feel the heat.
3 Make scents
Warm fragrances such as amber, lavender or vanilla will help create a welcome environment and act as an olfactory hug. Burn scented candles, use diffusers or room fragrance to set the mood. Particularly effective in your makeshift bathroom-as-spa.
4 A Netflixready sofa
Couches get a good workout over winter as we binge-watch our favourite TV shows, so now may be the time to upgrade the old one and get a generous sectional settee the whole family can make themselves at home on. Throws are mandatory for settees at this time of year for cosy indulgence and everyone should have their own to stop potential fights over who gets the blanket.
5 Your bathroom, your sanctuary
A long soak in a hot bath (those in the know say warm, but we like it north of that) will not only take away that bone-chilling cold it’s near guaranteed to de-stress by relaxing all the muscles in your body. Add some bath oil with a calming scent, such as lavender to step the luxury up a level and use candlelight to create a soothing ambience for your at-home spa. When you’re ready to pull the plug, wrap yourself in a warmed bath sheet.