Find stories to inspire you, ideas from people we admire and our expertise for a home well curated, a wardrobe well put together, a life well lived.
You know the ones. Those languid days after the 25th when a sofa, favourite film and plates heaped with leftovers are the only things needed. We often look forward to them more than the big day itself – a quiet lull in work and social diaries. While it’s the time to suit yourself (and live out the week in your PJs, if that’s what you desire), we have a few ideas how to get the most out of these days, too…
You’ve lost count of the number of times you’ve watched The Holiday. You can’t remember what it was you’d snack on before it was turkey and Quality Street. At this point, you might start contemplating a good walk to ‘clear the cobwebs’ – be it a wander around the local area, or a hike you wake up early for. Maybe take your family along, meet up with a few friends, or just take the opportunity to head out with the company of your favourite podcast host.
When the weather is against you, and the festive films and TV specials have been exhausted, you might be ready for a refreshing change of scenery, but that doesn’t mean you can’t continue the slow pace. Take a trip to the cinema to see the last big film of the year. Head to that museum exhibition you missed, or meander around an art gallery you haven’t been to before.
Maybe you’re just excited to lean into the lack of plans. Nowhere to be means you don’t have to settle for a dash-in-and-out shower. Instead, settle in for a long, hot soak in the bath with aromatic bubbles, flickering candlelight and the new book you got for Christmas.
Though we think of this as relaxed family time, it can be a hard time for others, so consider giving something, be it time or donations. Volunteer, give blood, donate to a local food bank. It doesn’t take much to make a small gesture towards helping those the Christmas season has been challenging for.
The year is winding down and a new one is coming into view. You might find yourself looking ahead to what is in store; starting to pin down exciting plans. It could be something extravagant, like planning a big trip, or something more low key – scheduling family time together or starting a project. This quiet period is an ideal time to take stock and reflect, but also to start planning for 2024.
