With the arrival of the colder seasons, many of us may feel the winter blues creeping in. This can be the perfect time to consider updating our bedrooms. Just as bears craft their cozy winter dens, we as humans may also feel inclined to nest during wintertime. Sleeping in, lounging around and reading the hours away in bed become all too tempting to pass up. Transforming your bedroom into a snuggly haven could just be the key to turning those winter blues around.
Taking the time to consider all the details of your bedroom is important to determine whether they are working for you and keeping you inspired. Making a few small changes can uplift the energy and make your space feel brand new again. Here is what we suggest:
- Declutter your space: Remove items that don’t relate to sleep. Tuck clothes away, and find new homes for any clutter so it remains out of sight, or better yet, out of the room all together. A tidy room feels rejuvenating and promotes a calm state of mind.
- Opt for non-toxic: While building your nest, try to stick to non-toxic materials that are gentle on your body. This is not only important to make sure you are reaching optimum comfort, but also for benefiting your overall health. Try adding plants such as Aloe Vera, Peace Lilies and Spider Plants, which will filter toxins out of the air, as well as add natural elements.
- Explore a new look: Try rearranging the furniture in your room. A new layout will refresh your space as well as your perspective.
- Increase your comfort factor: Surround yourself with things that make you feel good. Some soft cotton pyjamas, a pair of fluffy slippers or a couple of wool rugs are a perfect addition. It’s all about creating a space that makes you feel happy and relaxed.
- Think about making your bedroom a “Sense–ual” experience: Try activating your senses in new ways. It can be as easy as changing up your bed linens, for instance switching to percale if you usually use sateen. I like to add a flannel bottom sheet when the weather turns cold, for a wonderfully soft feeling when crawling into bed.
- Consider your bed: Ask yourself if you’re getting the comfort you need from your current sleep system. Is your bedding holding up? Replacing old or worn-out linens and pillows will make your bed fresh and cozy again.
- Tryout diffusing essential oils: Many natural essential oils are calming and relaxing, and can be diffused safely while we sleep. Experiment with what scents smell most comforting to you.
- Keep warm without overheating: We all want to stay warm as the cold season approaches, but too often the comforters or blankets we are using cause us to overheat. Steer clear of synthetics and feather down, as they trap your heat, and instead consider bedding made of breathable natural materials such as organic wool or cotton.
- Eliminate light at night: The devices we use, such as TVs and phones, emit a blue light that simulates the morning sun. Since melatonin production is interrupted by this light, try making a habit of turning off devices at least an hour before bed.
- Form a relaxation ritual: Try indulging in a relaxing bedtime activity. Sip a cup of herbal tea, practice meditating, listen to music, take a warm bath, or dive into a good book. Clearing your mind helps set the stage for a deeper, more refreshing slumber.
Incorporating Hygge Principles Into Your Nest
Hygge is a lifestyle within Danish culture that is built around fostering feelings of cozy contentment, and creating a warm, welcoming environment. The Nordic countries fully embrace the cold seasons by lighting candles, cuddling up with soft throws, baking homemade treats, and having friends over to create familial connections within their homes. Let’s face it, we could all use a little Hygge attitude in our lives. Consider topping your bed with a rustic wool blanket, adding some extra pillows or even just lighting a few beeswax candles to bring these concepts into your bedroom.
With a few simple changes, you can say goodbye to the winter blues, and welcome the colder months with open arms from inside your warm, cozy nest. Your bedroom can become a place you look forward to being in, and sleep can become an anticipated and pleasant finish to your day.
