The winds become chillier while hearts grow warmer. It's that time of year! With cozy season here, it's the perfect opportunity to fully welcome it. We've put together some simple, hassle-free activities to help lift those winter spirits!
1. Mood Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role. Whether you choose a 10-kuai apple-scented candle from IKEA or some thoughtfully arranged mood lighting in your space, aim for warm yellow lights that create a soft glow, making you feel snug and content inside. Brands like Xiaomi offer excellent smart light options, allowing you to set the mood via a smartphone app. Alternatively, fairy lights accomplish a similar effect at a much lower cost.
2. A Go-To Evening Drink
This is truly the season for an evening drink to serve as your cozy companion. Pick up a hot chocolate mix from April Gourmet or Jenny Lou's, or get a mulled wine kit from CHEERS. Add some cinnamon powder to your tea and toss in mini marshmallows, as a comforting evening drink can transform everything. Not a fan of milk? Sip on a hot cup of spearmint or chamomile tea to uplift a bleak evening. If you're out and about searching for a cozy drink, refer to this post and another post to discover some spots in Beijing offering warm winter beverages.
3. Dress the Part
Dress appropriately for the cozy season. Snag that oversized hoodie from Uniqlo, the fluffy hat you've always desired, and those fuzzy slippers you've been eyeing on Taobao. Let the fluffiness soothe you and make you feel cherished. Dressing the part isn't just for appearances; it influences you in ways that might not be immediately evident but fosters a sense of comfort and safety, especially while waiting for your Didi in the cold!
4. Comforting Scents
Combat the winter gloom and create a cozy atmosphere with scents that remind you of home. Pick up potpourri pouches at IKEA or purchase diffuser sticks from Miniso. Get a diffuser from your favorite shopping app and select a scent that comforts you most. Seeking a budget-friendly option? A scented candle is always a great choice and contributes to the mood lighting as well.
5. Snuggle With a Book
Select a book and read it under a well-lit lamp while snuggled under a blanket for ultimate comfort. There’s something enchanting about what a book can bring to quiet winter nights. Not into reading? No worries. Re-watch your favorite comfort movie on a weeknight. Personally, nothing beats the nostalgic vibes of "Confessions of a Shopaholic."
6. Cozy Background Music
Life is simply better with some background tunes. YouTube, QQ Music, or any music and video app is filled with cozy background melodies that provide a much-needed boost of main character energy. Just search for terms like “cozy warm music” or “cooking music” to find various playlists that can serve as the perfect soundtrack for your laundry or dishwashing activities.
7. Comfort Meals
Allow yourself to stray from the strict diet you've been following. Summer is distant, and the summer body can wait. Treat yourself to a delicious chocolate-coated pretzel from Butterful and Creamorous in Sanlitun or at Chaoyang Joy City. Revel in cozy offerings like cheese fondue or one of Beijing’s many comfort foods. Indulge in freshly baked treats from the capital's numerous bakeries or cafes, such as the new JM Cafe on Niujie. It's alright to relax your standards every now and then.
8. Decor That Counts
Decoration matters when it creates a warm ambiance. Opt for warm tones like rusty browns and deep maroons. Look for pillows and throws that enhance the coziness of your room, making it feel like home. Explore Panjiayuan market for beautiful decor that can serve as a statement piece for your home, or check out the crockery section at Bairong Trade Centre near Muxiyuan on Line 8.
Here’s to feeling warm and fuzzy this winter. Let's conquer the winter blues one day at a time!
READ: Ten Spots to Dive Into Cheese Fondue
Images: Unsplash, Canva
Overcome those winter blues with these warm comforts.