Embrace the Magic of Winter: Cosy Living in the Darkest Season

With December only days away, we are reaching the darkest part of the year. The Winter Solstice, celebrated next month, marks the longest night of the year. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we are moving into the depths of Winter. This time of year in the south of England, with its charming English countryside, is cold, stormy, and muddy (though it can occasionally be snowy -we recently had snow in the Cotswolds!). It’s easy to feel like the next few months are something to get through rather than enjoy.

Andrei and I recently spent an evening in the Cotswolds. It was freezing - quite literally—the fields were covered in frost, and the village churchyard had a light layer of snow. I’m one of those people who is always cold, but I wrapped myself in a long, woolly coat and embraced the weather. I wasn’t going to miss out on the beauty of the English countryside covered in snow, frost, and a beautiful orangey sunset!

As we have little control over the seasons or the weather, I choose to seek things to enjoy in Winter. It gives me a chance to slow down, get cosy, and appreciate the little things that bring me comfort. There’s something truly special about this darker time of the year, and if you’re not convinced, I hope this blog helps you see it for yourself.

The Beauty of Light in the Darkness

Winter is the best time to appreciate light. The soft glow of our festive candles and the delicate twinkling of fairy lights fill our homes with a warmth that’s so easy to overlook during the long days of Summer. There’s something truly magical and romantic about a room lit by candles.

There’s a good reason we feel so drawn to these cosy lights—studies show that dim, warm lighting helps us relax and feel more at ease. Lighting a candle isn’t just decoration; it’s a little ritual for our wellbeing, making our space inviting and comforting.

Why Winter Is Just as Important as Summer

Many people have their favourite season (ahem, Autumn!), but the truth is that every season is equally important. Nature follows its own rhythms, despite our likes and dislikes - thankfully!

Summer is often seen as the best time of year with its long, golden days and abundant nature, but imagine living in that heightened energy all the time. The long, sunny days would lose their charm, and people would beg for rain and a cloudy sky. Nature needs time to rest and regenerate, and so do we.

In Winter, seeds are tucked safely in the darkness of the soil, waiting for Mother Nature’s call to rise and bloom. Winter gives us a chance to slow down, look within, reflect, and let go of things, so we can bloom too.

Instead of rushing through it, we can learn to embrace a quieter pace of life during this time of year, just like nature does.

Making Winter Cosy and Enjoyable

One of the best and easiest ways to enjoy Winter is by making our homes feel warm and welcoming. Soft blankets, a steaming cup of tea, and the gentle glow of YR studio candles or a fireplace create a comforting space. Adding touches of nature around your home - like pinecones, evergreen branches, and dried orange slices - will make you feel closer to nature and more in tune with the seasons.

Our ancestors also gathered around the fire during the darkest months, telling stories and sharing meals. We’re not so different today with our modern holiday traditions and Christmas celebrations. Families gathering around the table, exchanging gifts, and sharing meals is a beautiful way to connect with others and brighten the darkest days of the year.

When Things Are Becoming Too Much

I believe I’ve built trust with my community by keeping things real and down to earth. It’s important for me to say that not everything can be healed with a hot bath and a candle. If you’re one of those people who really struggle during Winter, or if this year seasonal depression feels worse than before—please reach out for help. There is no shame in it whatsoever, and there are also places where you can do so anonymously eg: www.mind.org.uk or www.giveusashout.org <3

A Few Closing Words

Each season is important and Winter brings its own magic and beauty. The darkness of the long nights makes light shine brighter, the cold makes us appreciate the warmth of our homes, and the stillness of nature prompts us to slow down and breathe. Everyday life is busy enough - why not take a leaf (pun intended:) out of Mother Nature’s book and make it a season of peace and cosiness?

Adriana x