With the switch to standard time, temperatures hovering around freezing, and the snow starting to fall, it's quite easy to succumb to the autumn blues that characterize November for many. Here are some tips to make your home cozier and thus avoid mentally languishing during the gray season.
1- Embrace the Hygge philosophy
Are you familiar with the Danish and Norwegian trend called 'Hygge'? It's about putting yourself in a positive state of mind of comfort and well-being, which you create with a soothing indoor environment. Winter is long in these two Nordic countries; it's essential to feel good at home since you're likely to spend a good part of the cold season there. The Hygge aesthetic features lots of blankets, long-pile rugs, comfortable armchairs, minimalist decor, candles, and lights. All of this is accompanied by hot drinks and reading. Try it, and you'll love it!
2- Cook comfort meals
Comfort food is a must-have during the cold season. Bring out your family's best recipes and warm your heart with dishes that will remind you of sweet childhood memories. We're thinking of shepherd's pie, stews, homemade spaghetti sauce, or meat pies and tourtière. Enjoy your meal!
3- Subscribe to an online streaming service
Summer is the time to enjoy Quebec's nature to the fullest. We take advantage of it to be outdoors as much as possible. However, when autumn arrives, opportunities for outdoor activities drastically decrease. Why not subscribe to an online streaming service and throw yourself body and soul into a series? Enough to fill your evenings in the comfort of your home!
4- Organize a potluck
Do you miss sharing a delicious meal with friends over a good bottle of wine? No need to go to a restaurant to enjoy yourself! Invite your loved ones to a potluck at your place! You'll have the chance to taste a multitude of dishes while being in the company of the people you love! And at a lower price than a big meal at a restaurant.
5- Go out and do activities :
We tend to isolate ourselves during the colder days. Don't hesitate to go out and, above all, have fun! Here are some activity ideas that can bring a little sunshine into your day:
- To go to the museum
- To see a new movie at the cinema
- To go rock climbing at a climbing gym
- To have fun in an escape room
- To relax at the spa
- To go hiking
- To treat oneself to a restaurant meal
- To host a board game night
- To decorate or renovate a room in your house
- To prepare cocktails
In short, there are a ton of activities to pass the time. Don't hesitate to search the web to discover what there is to do in your area. You will surely find an occupation that will please everyone!
November may be a cold, gray, wet, and monotonous month for some, but don't let it get you down! We hope we've given you some ideas to get through it more serenely. The holiday season is upon us, with all its joys and happiness. Hang in there!
