‘Tis the season to stay indoors. Although every homebody loves this time of year, social butterflies are also more likely to stay inside. Because let’s be real: No one really wants to venture out into the cold weather when you have to bundle up and start your car or shovel snow off of it ahead of time; it’s a project.
Knowing this, it only makes sense that once the cold weather hits, the desire to stay at home is stronger than ever. Of course, depending on how you look at it, this can either be a lot of fun or a total drag. The truth is, though, is that staying in doesn’t have to be boring.
Make your home—or someone else’s—the ultimate sanctuary this season with these essentials. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, looking for things to add to your holiday wish list, or even shopping for the homebody in your life, you can’t go wrong with these items. Keep on reading to learn the 8 items that will help you become the ultimate homebody this year.
Items for the ultimate homebody:
1. Candles
One of the easiest ways to transform a home into a sanctuary is by burning candles regularly. They’re great for creating a cozy, welcoming, and relaxing atmosphere. They also boast numerous expert-backed health benefits. “The sense of smell plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and working capacity,” a study published in Scientia Pharmeceutica states.
Calm your mind and relax your soul by keeping candles lit in your home all season long. Pick out a smell you love, elicits warm and happy memories, is known to have healing properties, or accents the vibe you’re going for. Keep in mind that different scents offer different healing properties and benefits, so be sure to do your research so you can nail what you’re going for.
Well-Tipped Pool Boy
No plane ticket? No problem. Vacation’s Well-Tipped Pool Boy candle will instantly transport you poolside with notes of coconut sunscreen, freshly cleaned swimming pool, and hand-me down cologne.
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2. Entertainment
If you’re stuck inside, don’t fret: There are tons of ways you can entertain yourself at home. In fact, now’s the perfect time to finally do those things you’ve been putting off for so long—and I don’t just mean cleaning or laundry. After all, the cold weather is a great time to pick up a new hobby or reset and stick to some goals.
Take advantage of your time at home by doing things like reading, diving into a challenging puzzle, beating someone at Monopoly, or finally bingeing that TV show everyone’s been talking about.
3. Warm drinks
There’s no better time of year to warm yourself up from the inside out, and we all have a favorite cold weather beverage, so stock up on whatever supplies you need to make it ahead of time. For example: I always keep chocolate chips, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, and Sambuca around so I can make my homemade boozy hot chocolate all season long. If you’re a tea lover, stock up on your favorite teabags and flavors. Likewise, coffee lovers should load up on their faves as well, and so on and so forth.
In addition, it’s also important that you have the right kitchen tools and glassware for your warm drinks. For some, this may be a new tea kettle or authentic Italian espresso maker; for others, it may be splurging on a self-heated mug warmer or espresso cups with saucers. There are so many things available out there that can help you enjoy your beverage even more, so be sure to take your time and look for them.
4. Loungewear
No one should ever feel uncomfortable in their own home, which is why comfort is a top priority when staying in. Consider treating yourself or someone else to some nice loungewear. This can be anything from a new bathrobe, some cozy pants and a top, slippers and socks, or pajamas.
5. Spa treatments
You don’t have to leave the house to pamper yourself, nor do you have to break the bank. In fact, there are numerous at-home spa treatments you can do right from the comfort of your own home. Taking care of yourself will nourish your soul and make you feel good. And when you feel good, you look good.
When it comes to deciding how to pamper yourself, the choice is yours! It can be an at-home mani-pedi kit, a foot care treatment, facial masks, or a nice bath bomb. Whatever you decide, just make sure you’re indulging in something that pampers you, is relaxing, and makes you feel good.
Brighter (Not Lighter) Routine Bundle
Cult-favorite skincare brand EADEM has launched a limited edition bundle dedicated to brightening skin just in time for the holidays. Specially formulated for skin of color, this trio helps remove impurities and cleanse the skin, fade marks and dark spots, and restore the existing skin barrier.
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Sensitive Skincare Set
Founder of Tower 28, Amy Liu, struggled for years with eczema, which is why the brand’s skincare products are kind to all skin types and approved by the National Eczema Association. “My skin has never been more consistent since I started using SOS. We literally named it SOS because it saved my skin! Personally, I use the spray during the day and serum at night,” Liu told me.
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6. Blankets
A nice blanket wherever you spend the most time (like a couch) is an absolute-must. Think about it: Is there anything cozier than snuggling up with a good blanket? Blankets help you stay warm and have tons of mental health benefits. Weighted blankets in particular are great for calming anxiety, boosting your mood, and reducing stress. On the flip side, heated blankets are particularly useful for people who are always cold or suffer from joint pain and arthritis; they’re also good for calming anxiety as well.
This year, upgrade your current throw pillow or splurge on a heated or weighted blanket this season. Fair warning, though: You’ll be so cozy, you’ll never want to leave.
7. New recipes
Good food is one of the luxuries of life, and you deserve to have Michelin-star-worthy meals regularly—but you don’t have to go out to get that. In fact, the cold weather is the best time of year to level up your cooking skills. So, regardless of your chef level, have fun whipping up some new things in the kitchen! You’ll enjoy trying new things along the way, learn more about cooking and pairing ingredients, and branch out and try all different kinds of food.
That said, try planning ahead when it comes to cooking. Not only will this help you prep better, but it’ll also amp up the excitement and anticipation. When the time comes to actually cook, you won’t be able to contain yourself.
Mini Rice Cooker
Although this is labeled as a rice cooker, it’s multi-functional and can be used to create a variety of meals and snacks.
Available in 8 colors.
8. Pillows
Sleek, modern furniture is the antithesis to comfort. While nice to look at, more often than not, it’s not-so-nice to sit on. Thankfully, you no longer have to choose between one or the other: Grab some pillows that fit your needs, and you’re good to go! There’s a plethora of throw pillows, back pillows, and more out there that can instantly make you more comfortable and prevent and reduce long-term pain.
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The products above have been independently selected and/or tested. We may earn a small commission from any purchases made through the links above, at no cost to you.
