Cozy Winter Reads: Our 7 Recommendations For Beating The Winter Blues
Bundled up in the heart of Northern BC’s lengthy winter, I understand the struggle of those winter blues all too well.
But fear not! This blog post is your ultimate guide to not just surviving but thriving in the winter months. Today is all about beating the winter blues with a delightful mix of book recommendations, cozy food pairings, playlist inspiration, and more. Let’s turn the chill outside into the warmth of literary escape and comforting indulgences. Winter may linger, but we’re ready to cozy up and make the most of it!
1. Find Your Winter Reading Nook
One of my favorite things about winter is finding the perfect reading nook to curl up in with a cozy book. For me, it’s all about creating a warm and inviting space where I can escape into the pages of a good story.
My winter reading nook is nestled in a corner of my living room, next to a large window that overlooks a snowy landscape. I’ve adorned the space with soft blankets and plush pillows, creating a comfortable spot to sink into. The room is filled with the soft glow of fairy lights, casting a warm and magical ambiance.
In this cozy corner, I have a small bookshelf filled with my favorite winter reads. From heartwarming romance novels to thrilling mysteries, I have a variety of genres to choose from depending on my mood. I also have a stack of seasonal bookmarks, each one adorned with a winter-themed design.
To complete the cozy atmosphere, I have a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a warm mug of tea by my side. The scent of cinnamon and vanilla fills the air, adding to the sensory experience of reading in this winter haven.
This winter reading nook has become my sanctuary, a place where I can escape the cold and immerse myself in the world of books. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, relax, and embrace the magic of winter through the pages of a cozy read.
2. Create a Winter Reading Playlist
As I settle into my cozy reading nook, I love to have a playlist of songs that enhance the winter reading experience. The right music can create the perfect ambiance and transport me even further into the world of the book. Here are a few songs that I recommend for your winter reading playlist.
1. “Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson: This beautiful duet captures the essence of winter with its soothing melodies and heartfelt lyrics. It sets a serene and introspective mood, perfect for diving into a thought-provoking novel.
2. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Dean Martin: This classic holiday tune brings a touch of nostalgia and cheer to the winter season. It’s a joyful and lighthearted song that pairs well with heartwarming and feel-good reads.
3. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: This hauntingly beautiful song evokes a sense of melancholy and reflection. It’s a great choice for diving into a deep and emotional novel that explores the complexities of human nature.
4. “White Winter Hymnal” by Fleet Foxes: The harmonies and folk-inspired melodies of this song create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for immersing yourself in a book set in a small town or rural setting.
5. “The Book of Love” by Peter Gabriel: This tender and romantic song adds a touch of warmth and sentimentality to your reading experience. It’s a great choice for curling up with a heartwarming love story or a book that explores the power of human connection.
By curating a winter reading playlist with these songs, you can enhance the cozy atmosphere of your reading nook and fully immerse yourself in the magic of winter reads. So grab your favorite book, press play, and let the music transport you to another world.
3. Cozy Winter Food Pairings
When it comes to cozy winter reading, having the perfect snack or drink to accompany your book can elevate the experience to a whole new level. Here are some delicious comfort food pairings that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallows
There’s nothing quite like a steaming cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day. Pair it with homemade marshmallows for an extra touch of indulgence. The rich, velvety chocolate combined with the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows will make you feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.
Spiced Apple Cider and Cinnamon Donuts
The sweet and tangy flavors of spiced apple cider perfectly complement the warm and comforting taste of cinnamon donuts. The combination of the aromatic spices and the soft, sugary donuts will transport you to a cozy cabin in the woods.
Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This classic comfort food pairing is a winter staple. The creamy and savory tomato soup pairs perfectly with the crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, making it the ideal choice for a comforting read on a chilly day.
Chai Tea Latte and Pumpkin Bread
The aromatic spices of chai tea, combined with the moist and flavorful pumpkin bread, create a delightful combination of flavors. The warm and cozy notes of the chai tea complement the earthy sweetness of the pumpkin bread, making it a match made in winter heaven.
Mulled Wine and Dark Chocolate
For those who enjoy a little indulgence while reading, mulled wine and dark chocolate make a decadent pairing. The warm and spiced flavors of the mulled wine enhance the rich and bittersweet taste of the dark chocolate, creating a luxurious treat for your senses.
With these winter comfort food pairings, you can create a cozy reading menu that will enhance your reading experience and make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket. So grab your favorite book, prepare these delicious treats, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of cozy reads.
4. A Cozy Reading Challenge
Looking for a fun and engaging way to make the most of your winter reading? I’ve got just the thing for you – a cozy reading challenge! This challenge is designed to help you discover new books, explore different genres, and create a cozy reading routine that will keep you warm and entertained all winter long.
Here are a few prompts to get you started:
1. “Cozy Mystery”: Curl up with a classic cozy mystery novel. Dive into a world of intrigue, puzzles, and charming detectives as you try to solve the case alongside them.
2. “Winter Romance”: Indulge in a heartwarming winter romance novel. Let the snowy landscapes and cozy settings transport you to a world of love, passion, and happily-ever-afters.
3. “Book by the Fire”: Find a book that makes you feel like you’re sitting by a crackling fireplace. Look for stories that evoke a sense of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.
4. “Non-Fiction Exploration”: Step outside your comfort zone and explore a non-fiction book that piques your interest. Whether it’s a biography, a history book, or a self-help guide, challenge yourself to learn something new.
I encourage you to participate in this cozy reading challenge and share your progress with us. Use the hashtag #CozyReadingChallenge on social media to connect with fellow book lovers and discover new recommendations. Let’s make this winter a season of cozy reads and delightful discoveries. Happy reading!
5. Set Personal Winter Reading Goals
As we enter the cozy winter season, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the books that await me. This January, I have set some personal reading goals that I am excited to share with you.
Here are a few of my own winter reading goals:
- Explore Diverse Genres: This winter, I aim to step outside my comfort zone and explore genres I haven’t delved into before. From historical fiction to magical realism, I’m excited to broaden my literary horizons.
- Create a Cozy Reading Nook: I plan to transform a corner of my home into the ultimate cozy reading nook. With soft blankets, warm lighting, and a steaming cup of tea, I want to make my reading space as inviting as possible.
- Engage in Thoughtful Discussions: Joining a virtual book club is on my list to foster engaging discussions about the books I read. I look forward to exchanging thoughts and insights with fellow book lovers, enhancing my reading experience.
- Balance Fiction and Non-Fiction: While I adore fiction, I aim to strike a balance by incorporating more non-fiction into my winter reading list. Learning something new alongside fictional escapes seems like the perfect combination.
- Document the Journey: Keeping a reading journal is a goal to reflect on my literary journey. Whether it’s jotting down favorite quotes, noting memorable moments, or tracking the books I’ve read, this journal will be a cherished companion.
Setting these goals adds an exciting layer to my winter reading, transforming it into a personal adventure filled with warmth, discovery, and the joy of storytelling. What are your winter reading goals?
6. Join a Virtual Winter Book Club
Embrace the winter reading vibes by joining a virtual book club that promises both literary exploration and cozy connections. Whether you opt for a local gathering or an online community, the camaraderie of fellow book lovers can turn the chilliest winter evenings into warm and engaging experiences.
A virtual book club offers the perfect setting to discuss your favorite winter reads, discover new gems, and share the joy of reading with like-minded individuals.
Plus, the cozy setting of your home makes it an ideal winter activity, allowing you to delve into captivating discussions without stepping out into the cold.
Here are some tips for finding the right book club to suit your preferences:
- Explore Online Platforms: Websites like Goodreads, Meetup, or local library websites often host virtual book clubs. Browse through their offerings to find one that aligns with your reading interests.
- Check Social Media Groups: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram host numerous book-related groups. Search for virtual book clubs or reading communities that match your preferred genres or themes.
- Consider Local Bookstores: Many local bookstores host virtual book clubs, providing a chance to support your community while enjoying great reads.
- Ask Friends or Colleagues: Personal recommendations can be invaluable. Ask around among friends, family, or colleagues to see if anyone is part of a virtual book club.
- Look for Diverse Options: Some book clubs focus on specific genres, while others explore a variety of literature. Choose one that caters to your reading preferences.
Remember, the key is to find a book club that resonates with you, offering a delightful winter reading experience. Cozy up, connect, and enjoy the warmth of shared stories. Winter reading is better when shared!
7. Crafting a Cozy Winter Reading Aesthetic
When I think of a cozy book aesthetic, I envision images of a steaming cup of hot cocoa next to a worn-out copy of a classic novel. The flickering candlelight casting a soft glow on the pages, creating a sense of warmth and tranquility. It’s the sight of a cozy reading spot, with a plush armchair and a fluffy blanket, inviting you to curl up and escape into a world of words.
But a cozy book aesthetic is not just about the visuals.
It’s about the emotions and experiences that these images evoke, the feeling of being transported to another time and place, and of losing yourself in the pages of a well-loved book. But It’s also about the joy of discovering new stories and characters, and the comfort of returning to old favorites.
So, when it comes to capturing the essence of winter reading and the recommended books, the cozy book aesthetic is all about creating an atmosphere that invites you to slow down, to savor each word, and to embrace the magic of storytelling.
Winter Bliss: A Cozy Escape
As we wrap up this winter escapade, I hope these cozy book recommendations, comforting food pairings, and soothing playlists have infused warmth into your January days.
Embracing winter blues becomes an art when surrounded by the right stories, flavors, and melodies. Let’s continue to celebrate the season, turning cold days into opportunities for literary and sensory indulgence. Remember, the beauty of winter lies in finding joy amid the chill, and what better way to do so than with a good book, delightful treats, and the perfect tunes?
Here’s to cozy winter days filled with warmth and blissful escapes. Stay snug, my fellow winter wanderers!
