Create a cozy and colourful nook to practice self-care

Art via Celadon Art / Table Lamp via Schoolhouse / Side Table via CB2 / Candle and plant in headvase via Homesense / Essential Oil via Saje / Green velvet chair via Article / Schlage Encode Smart Wifi lock via Schlage Canada / Vintage rug via Tonic Living / Potted plant via Ikea / Book via Indigo / Linen throw via Wills & Prior / Pillow via Tonic Living

Cold winter nights make me crave a cozy spot to relax at the end of the day. There's no better way to unwind than to steal away by yourself with a good book.

I've partnered with Schlage Canada to put together an inspiration board with ideas for carving out a cozy nook to create a space that is focused on wellness and comfort.

Whether it's a corner reading nook or a room that you can call your own (lucky you!) fill it with all the things that you love and will help to create a sense of calm.  A comfy chair, a cozy throw and a rug to keep your feet warm are just a few of the things that will help you create a comfortable space.

One of the most important things you can do is to put away the phone. It's easy to fall into a rut of using your down time to mindlessly scroll through Instagram, I'm guilty of that too, but studies show it's definitely not contributing to our overall well being. So create a spot where you can relax, light a candle,  read a book (I'm just finishing a book called Mudlark, about the history of the River Thames in London and the treasures in it's mud), spend some time drawing, journaling or even meditate. It's just important to decompress, get your mind off of what stresses you.

Here's how to create a chill out space...

Carve out an area that is (relatively) free of distraction. If that doesn't exist in your house then you'll want to add a good set of noise canceling headphones to your list.

Somewhere to sit

A comfy chair is key. Look for fabrics that are plush, soft, something that you can sink into. Velvet will give you that. If meditation is your thing than look for a comfy floor pillow.

Warm floors

It's hardly a revelation that rugs add warmth to a space so find one that you love, natural fibres are best, your feet will be happy.

Add plants

Plants make me happy. Adding a dose of green, living things in the dead of winter is good for the soul. They say it's also good for the air. There are many plants that are easy to care for so I urge you to give it a try.  Although there are lots of great looking faux plants, they are plastic. You probably don't need more plastic in your life.

Add textiles

You can never have too many throw blankets and pillows in a cozy space. Make sure they feel good to your touch. Choose pillows that have removable covers, making them easy to wash. It's simple to swap out pillow covers seasonally.

Lighting is key

Ensure you have good task and ambient lighting in your cozy space. A table lamp or sconce adds another layer of lighting beyond the ceiling lights in a room that can be practical too, for reading etc. Then layer in ambient lighting - candles will do the trick.

Essential oils

I love using essential oils. I use a diffuser as well as roll-on oils to treat everything from headaches (peppermint!) to sleep (chamomile or lavender) or to refresh the air.

Art

It's such a personal thing but when you find a piece of art that speaks to you it can life your spirits. I spotted this print at The Toronto Gift Market last week and loved it. I collect vintage books and paper so it caught my eye. Photographs are good too. Maybe you have a shot of your favourite beach that you can print and frame. Sometimes focusing on a piece of art or a photograph can help you relax.

Technology

Although it's good to take a break from your phones technology can also make your life easier. You can use an app your phone to play relaxing music, listen to a podcast or do meditation. There's even an app to unlock your door. Schlage's Encode Smart Wifi Deadbolt lock lets you control the locks on your door using an app, from anywhere. It just makes your life easier. You don't need to use a key or get up from your chill out mode to lock your door when a certain someone doesn't lock it on the way out. You can also set up to 100 access codes for trusted friends or family. For additional convenience, enjoy voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant. 



Disclosure: I've partnered with Schlage Canada in this sponsored post. All opinions and text are my own. 

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