Hibernation Mode

With the New Year and new decade underway, so comes the cold weather. Don’t get me wrong, I love that Canada gets 4 actual seasons. There are, however, some folks that truly struggle with the snow, cold and shorter days.

Quite often this means much more time spent indoors that may lead to some feeling rather cagey and at odds with themselves. I have to say that when a massive snowstorm hits the city over the course of a weekend, I too am prone to take shelter and stick close to home.

But what exactly to do with yourself? I suggest that taking the situation and turning it into a positive by appreciating this little time of ‘hibernation’ from the rest of the world.   Here are a few things I actually make a part of my winter routine:

Pamper yourself.

In the warmer months we’re all about the great outdoors and enjoying all that fresh air and light. Pamper yourself with a deep, hot bath. I find them so relaxing and throw in a bath bomb in there… and don’t expect to see me for at least a half hour (or longer!). The bath bombs will soften your skin and depending on the brand you use, the scent will be soothing and so decadent. One of my particular favourites is Bathorium  . Their bath bombs are of the highest quality, and ethically sourced. I love the fact that they list and describe in detail all of their ingredients.   ) You simply MUST try the Boreal Fog bomb …it’s heavenly!

Why not bring that lovely bath to the next level and also have a face mask? For those of you who know me, I am a massive fan of sheet masks because they are so easy (no rinsing off  wiping away of the face required ).   They leave your skin feeling beautifully hydrated and feeling delicious! The collagen boost sheet mask from 100% Pure is made with all natural ingredients and the sheet is made of a bamboo cloth so it’s naturally anti-microbial and better for the environment that its polyester sheet mask competitors…what’s not to love?

Get wrapped up in a good story.

My workdays are spent in front of the computer screen doing a lot of reading, but there seems to be little time to unplug and lose yourself in a truly wonderful book. Reading has so many benefits such as boosting your intelligence and brainpower according to research by Nurology; but it also can also make you more empathetic and relaxed. For a short list of some of my current favourites, check out our post   ( from last fall. If you have a favourite you’d like to share, add it to the comments below…share the love.  😉  )

Get organized

I know, I know… I can almost hear the eyeballs rolling. Cleaning out and organizing your closet(s) or home office is right up there next to getting a root canal for some, but once done it is truly cathartic. Because I am constantly searching out new product designs, colours and fabrications from all over, it is no small statement that my home office is sometimes looking like a perfect candidate for ‘Hoarding: Buried Alive’ TV show.

The tough thing is that when you’re halfway through….with stuff all over the place (‘ keep/discard’ piles amounting), it can be truly daunting.

I find that organizing prior helps a lot: a paper bag for all the papers/files/etc. that can be recycled, and large reusable shopping bags for things you want to donate. Every city or town has church groups, shelters that are in constant need of gently used, clean clothing, bedding, towels as well as office supplies. Let’s not even go to the linen closet drawers full of hotel toiletries ( yes, I am THAT person that takes all the unused bathroom toiletries home from the hotel); these as well are always appreciated at shelters or foster care organizations.

It’s a win/win as I look at it: your space will be tidy and neat with tons more room, and your donations will be greatly appreciated by those in need.

Get cookin’

Big batch cooking is not only great for your health as you choose the choice ingredients you use, but also it alleviates the stress of making dinner on those nights that you’re too exhausted to even think much less cook.

As you can see from the multiple soup recipe postings throughout the site, I am quite the fan! On a chilly night with crusty bread and a salad, there is nothing quite so comforting. And speaking of chilly, why not whip up a big batch of chilli  or lasagne? The list is endless, and believe me I have been so thankful for that stash of frozen yummies in my freezer on many occasions!

If you find that you don’t have the room in your freezer for 4 or 5 trays of lasagne, soup   and chilli, why not help those who need it? An elderly relative, someone housebound due to illness, or a friend who unfortunately needs to spend night and day at the hospital with a sick child …all will be beyond appreciative of your culinary contributions.

So…yes, it is cold. The days are short and often dreary, but take this time to indulge yourself in ways that once the nice weather comes may not even enter your mind.

Keep warm my friends!

Xoxo – Sandra

Thanks to the talented photographers at Pixabay:

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