Seasonal Sensory Experiencing: Winter edition

It feels like a very fitting time to write this, as Indianapolis just had a big snow storm and I am currently trapped inside my home with about a foot of snow outside. It is very beautiful and peaceful outside, and my Pyrenees mix is loving it! But I’m currently worried about our pipes freezing and/or losing power.

I think like a lot of people, I can struggle with winter time. It’s cold and dark, and overall not a fun experience in that regard. I will say though, I do love cozy activities and winter is a perfect time for it! While winter can be difficult, it’s important to focus on the small moments that bring us glimmers and delight. Therefore, below is my list of seasonal sensory experiencing that has brought me a sense of peace and joy!

Sight

Sunshine and rainbow prisms

I don’t know much about astronomy and the tilt of the earth’s axis, but for whatever reason my house and kitchen receives the most amount of sunlight during the winter. Obviously not when it is gloomy and dark out, but when the sun is shining, it comes through my south facing window like no other. I also have some prism clings on my windows that only work during the winter, so I get some cute little rainbows around the house in the winter. It’s a nice little moment that brings me a small sense of joy during the dark winter months.

Prism by the kitchen sink.

Rainbow catcher in my laundry room.

Blooming Christmas Cactus

I love gardening, nature, and house plants (and have too many to take care of truthfully). But the Christmas Cactus is one of my favorites, and pretty easy to take care of. I love that it blooms this time of year, and it’s so pretty. I will say the blooming period does not last long, maybe a couple of weeks to a month. So you really have to stop and enjoy it while you can. I’ve noticed that sometimes it will bloom in the spring as well, but I always look forward to its blooming season.

Hamilton Musical

Not inherently a winter activity, but I recently saw the Hamilton musical while it was in Indy and it was so amazing! Coincidentally we also had a winter storm that day too.

I’d highly recommend if you haven’t seen it!

Smell

Candles

I enjoy changing out my candles during the seasons. As I type, I currently have Winter Balsam lit. Not only does it smell nice, but it also brings some warmth from the flame which is much needed when it’s well below freezing outside! I also recently bought a very nice candle from Rooftop Fruit to have lit during my bedtime routine while I read to enhance my living experience.

Sound

Classical and Jazz music

During the day while I work I often listen to ambient background music. My go to is from Cozy Vintage on YouTube that typically plays oldie jazz that I enjoy. At night time for my bedtime routine when I journal and read I like to put on a Classical Piano playlist on Qobuz. It’s very relaxing and helps me stay grounded and focused.

Touch

Jane Eyre and tea

I’ve been focusing on reading more classics this year, and my current read is Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I love being all cozied up with a hot tea to keep me warm and a good book. Just what the doctor ordered in these long cold nights.

Taste

Black tea

Speaking of tea, I notice during the winter I tend to reach for tea much more frequently. My go to is usually coffee, but in the winter when I’m wanting a hot drink and I’ve had enough coffee for the day, a nice cup of black tea is a great alternative. I have some regular to drink during the day, but at night I use decaf. I wish I could drink herbal tea, but I have come to the conclusion that I don’t like it and I’m done trying to force it. I’m a black tea girly!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this iteration of Seasonal Sensory Experiencing! I will see you in the spring for the next edition!