These 6 Cozy Activities will Start you on the Path to De-stressing

The adjective COZY describes being comfortable and warm.  For example when you feel cozy curled up on the couch under a soft quilt in front of a roaring fire.  “Isn’t this cozy?” When you hear these words, you might be in a friendly, casual place where everyone feels welcome.

That’s the goal of this post, getting cozy.  Why? Not only does it feel good to be cozy and relaxed, it’s healthy for you.  And I’m weaving the hygge lifestyle into it as a means to this end.  Of course, quilts and coziness go hand in hand.  

I have recently, in the last 2 years, retired from my career job and am now focused on Rhapsody red T-shirt Quilts as my small business.  I knew I was under a lot of stress with work which is why I made the decision to retire early but I had no idea how stressed I was.  I dance and sing my way through the day now.  Really sometimes I do.  And no, I never did before.

It’s very hard to tear yourself away from work, kids, errands, etc. You’re caught in the hustle and bustle of life. Tiny changes can make a difference and lead to larger changes.

De-Stressing

Let’s start with why we would want to do this.  Relaxing and potentially being with friends or family can make a positive impact on your health, bring balance to your mind, body, and spirit. Relaxing allows you to step back from the chaos around you and reconnect with what really matters most in your lives – your core values.  With that you can enjoy the important things more fully and not stress about the things that turn out not to be as critical as it sometimes appears.

Making time for relaxation and relationships can be tough to do. Here are some tiny steps you can take to begin to make changes.  Don’t get overwhelmed, try ones that call to you.  The point is to enjoy life more.

Start with Sleep –

Create a ritual for winding down before going to bed.  Maybe do breathing exercises or journal.  Grab the quilt and place it next to the bed in case you need it.  Your body will begin to see the ritual as a signal to start winding down for sleep.

Spend time outdoors –

Go for a walk in the neighborhood, go hiking, fishing, running.  Being outside in the sunshine provides the body with vitamin D.  Hiking offers benefits contributing to a feeling of relaxation and well-being.

Spend time with friends and family –

Relax together with a fun activity such as cooking dinner. Relaxing together doesn’t have to be complicated or require a large time commitment. You can make a simple meal together or pick up an inexpensive board game for hours of entertainment.  And of course, grab that quilt to get comfy.

How about that Yoga –

I know.  If you have never tried yoga, you may have the idea that yoga isn’t for you.  I challenge you to give it a try before you make a decision.  My husband and I both thought it was easy and for the Cirque de Sol Cast.  Boy were we wrong.  We tried it and realized how hard it can be and that it feels good when you are done.  You’ve done something good for your body.  And as it turns out, your mind as well.

Mindfulness –

Check in with yourself.  Practice awareness of your thoughts, feelings and senses in the moment without judging them, solving them or questioning why.  Pick something basic like when you are making tea or your night routine.

Go electronics free for one evening –

Try once a week or heck if that feels like it’s too difficult, try it once a month.  Put the phones away, check your setting so emergency calls can come through anyway, don’t rely on the television or electronic games.  Pick up a book own that boardgame I keep mentioning.  And yes, your quilt.  Make it fun, light candles, make tea and enjoy.

More Ideas to get Cozy

Want different ideas or more ideas, check out Zeel’s blog “Your Perfect Night In:  21 Cozy Indoor Activities.” 

 Town & Country Living’s “15 Hygge Activities to Enjoy Now: Cozy Living” has some great ideas as well and yummy sangria recipes.

Make a Plan

If doing all these at the same time seem overwhelming, don’t.  Try one and add one every week, or go easy, once a month.  What matters is that you are taking steps to improve.  

Talk about it with your family.  Get them onboard.  You can find activities together that all of you buy into.  Maybe it can be a challenge.  Will that get them interested?  I am doing a 10 in 14 Day Hygge Challenge starting July 10th (2022).  Check HERE for my Challenge list.

Snuggle Up