Hi everyone! Winnie Price here from When Magic Sleeps and Of Solstice Dreaming (which is one of the stories in Myths and Mistletoe).
I have a confession to make: I love winter. I love everything about it. The cold in the air. The snow on the trees. Even the shorter days, because less daylight means more reading (and writing) time as far as I’m concerned.
So I consider myself an aficionado of all things winter, including the best ways to enjoy the season. And what better day to put those ways into practice than on the shortest day of all?
Which is why I’m so excited to share with you my ten best tips for your coziest Winter Solstice ever.
Top 10 Things to Do on the Shortest Day of the Year
- Drink Something Hot — This could be hot cocoa, hot cider, or even hot coffee, if that’s your thing. Anything that warms you from the inside out is sure to keep the chill away.
- Eat Comfort Food — This goes well with #1. Eating something warm and filling, especially if it takes you back to a happy memory, is a great way to warm your body…and your heart.
- Get Fresh Air — This may not be the best way to stay warm, but I love spending time outside in cold weather. I bundle up from nose to toes and take an invigorating walk in nature.
- Snuggle Something Cozy — Oh how I love cozying up in fuzzy blankets, faux-furry slippers, and fluffy robes when I get back from that walk. If I had a dog, I would snuggle her too.
- Stay Warm and Toasty — The best way to do this, obviously, is in front of a roaring fire. But if that’s not possible, try a space heater or even a really furry dog (see #4 above).
- Fill Your Space With Light — To add a warm glow when the sun is playing hide-and-seek, burn candles or put up fairy lights (we call them Christmas lights in the US, but I like the UK term better, for obvious reasons).
- Binge Watch Your Favorite Series — Every year, I have a Harry Potter movie marathon, complete with themed treats and Ravenclaw pajamas.
- Read Something Inspiring — There is nothing like the feeling of curling up with a good book and getting lost in another world on a dark, dreary day.
- Write Something Inspiring — If you’re a writer (or you’re thinking about becoming one) then Winter Solstice is a great day to start a new story.
- Volunteer to Give Back — Whether it’s working at a local shelter, taking baked goods to the fire station, or even paying for the car behind you at the drive-thru, a small act of service can have profound effects.
Well that’s my list! What’s on yours? Share your favorite way to enjoy a chilly day and so I can add it to my list for next year.
Happy Solstice!
Winnie
PS. I’m planning to spend this Winter Solstice in the fae realm—their celebrations are beyond amazing! If you want to find out for yourself, read about my adventure in Of Solstice Dreaming (grab it for free at teralynnchilds.com/get-solstice).
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