Despite grey skies, your indoor life doesn’t have to be boring and dreary.

The cold months of the year in most parts of Australia mean staying indoors most of the time, but they can also be a time of joy.

When it’s cold or rainy out, and you’ve been stuck inside for — who knows how long? — binging the next series on your “recommended” list might feel like the most appealing option.

However, if you want to spice things up, here are a couple of ideas to turn a drab day into something delightful.

Get the mood right

The use of candles contributes to the creation of an incredibly relaxing environment. They provide beautiful, soft lighting as well as add warmth and fragrance to the room.

You can celebrate by choosing seasonal scents or combat the seasonal blues by choosing summery scents, such as coconut and floral.

Adding texture

A cosy space is enhanced with throws, sheepskins, and cushions. Adding luxurious fabrics and pillows of varying textures to your surfaces will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.

Consider going faux or finding inexpensive alternatives if costs are an issue.

Bring out the board games

Spend some time around the table with your partner or kids away from their screens. There is something for everyone, whether it is competitive strategy games or social games that will make you laugh out loud. A deck of cards can provide plenty of entertainment for those who want to keep it simple yet enjoyable.

Need remote gaming options? Several online group gaming apps are available, and many people have devised creative ways to play the classics through Zoom. Take part in a game and keep your connections going year-round!

Try baking something

Cosy experiences are centred around comfort food. However, it doesn’t just begin with eating a cake (or cookie) – it begins with the idea of making it.

Browse through your favourite cookbooks or eye-catching baking websites, choose your ingredients carefully, and mix them with care, enjoying the process as you go. Baking fills your space with delicious aromas – and tastes great, too.

Try asking a friend or family member who has a recipe you’d like to learn from, and ask them if they can show you how to prepare it. You can set up a video call if you’re not able to meet in person.

Engage in seasonal activities

Do you want to up your fitness goals at home? Make some delightful desserts to share with friends and family. Perhaps invite friends or family over and enjoy conversations around a backyard bonfire with some snacks and drinks?

Create a plan for whatever your favourite seasonal activities are — make a note on your calendar, remind yourself via smartphone, or seek out an accountability partner (a friend or family member who will help you push yourself), and experience the magic of even the most dismal weather.

Learn how to perfect your hot drink skills

Think outside the box and think of all kinds of hot beverages – cocoa, hot toddies, apple cider, mulled wine. It doesn’t matter what it is, find a recipe that you are going to love sharing. Create a virtual happy hour and invite your friends and family.

It’s absolutely fine to add whiskey or a bit of liquor to those drinks. For those who do not drink, you should also make a mocktail version.

Mix up your playlist for cold weather

Make a mix of music that motivates you to do all those things that make your space feel absolutely enchanting to you. Listen to it on shuffle, put your feet up, and relax.

It’s no secret that instrumentals work well as background music for a wide variety of purposes. It is always a good idea to check out your music service’s premade playlists, as some of them can be tailored according to your mood.

Embrace, enjoy and make the most out of the sweater weather

Get started on finding your favourite sweater if you don’t already have one. It should bring a sense of comfort to you the moment you slip it on. It doesn’t matter what the material is: cashmere, wool, mohair — anything will do. Choose thick socks to go with whatever you choose!

You can make your own sweater over the winter if you find some beginner books or tutorials and try knitting, crocheting or weaving. You can get tips and encouragement by joining an online knitting circle.