It might be colder at this time of year but that gives us all the excuse to tap into the snuggle factor and enjoy some ‘me’ time. Everyone has their favourite way of doing this, but we thought we’d share ours and hopefully add some ideas into the mix!
Scents and Scentsability
Turn down the lighting and add some gorgeous scented candles. There are loads of different kinds available but good Winter scents include cinnamon, sandalwood, vanilla, pine, frankincense and apple. All these scents work well together so you can mix and match for a fantastic scentsation! You could also put on your creative hat and create some homemade Potpourri with pine cones, cinnamon sticks, star anise and dried orange slices. You can purchase the latter in a craft store or make your own. Slice up two or three oranges into thin rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Blot with kitchen paper and put the slices on racks in your oven on a low temperature, for about 3 hours, to dry out. Remember to check on them regularly to ensure they don’t burn! You could also thread these on string with cinnamon sticks and bay leaves and hang up.
Winter Warmers
It takes a lot to beat a hot toddy or soothing spiced fruit juice – you don’t need to have a cold as an excuse to mix one up! Here are a few suggestions; some with alcohol, some without, but obviously everything in moderation!
- Gin has seen a big rise in popularity and so why not take it one stage further…hey presto, the Hot Gin Toddy! Mix 1 ½ oz of your favourite gin with ¾ oz of fresh lemon juice, 2oz hot water, 1 tsp sugar and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- The Hot Apple Toddy can be made with or without alcohol. All you need is 1 tsp of runny honey (Winnie the Pooh’s favourite thing!), 2oz of whiskey or apple brandy, 5oz apple cider (warmed through), a lemon wedge, a cinnamon stick and 2 cloves. Just pop the honey into a sturdy glass, add the whiskey or apple brandy, top with hot apple cider and garnish with the cloves, lemon wedge and cinnamon stick. If you want the non-alcoholic version, replace the whiskey/apple brandy and cider with hot apple juice.