It’s been a bit cooler these last few days here, even if very windy, and I have been getting into a cozy mood, which soon led me to get into a romantic mood. And no, when I say romantic, I don’t necessarily mean love or passion…

I’ve been “tinkering” around our home trying to add some romantic details here and there, and I’ve also been in a more introspective mood these days. It should come as no surprise given my previous blog post — I’ve been craving change and beauty all around me. The world is an ugly place these days, judging by the news, and I have been retracting in some sort of a bubble. I’m not ignoring what’s happening, I’m just taking care of my mental health by slowing down to enjoy the little yet breathtaking things and moments in life: mesmerizing sunrises, glowing afternoon light, clouds, my garden, nature, giving and getting “thank you” — just about anything. Basically, I choose to see the good — yes, the world may be an ugly place these days but it’s made so by a handful of [loud] people, not everyone — it’s important to distinguish that.

Romanticizing life these days is about the little moments and [ordinary] habits that simply bring joy — something to look forward to each day. Here are a few ways you can make that happen as well:

Slow down, if it’s just for 1-2 minutes

Stop for a moment and observe the life around you — the wind moving through the trees, a bird flying above you, the clouds coming and going, the rain — whatever is happening at the moment, observe it and marvel at this incredible world of ours. And even better yet — observe a car going by or a plane flying, and think that we, humans have created that and so much more — aren’t we so damn amazing in the grand scheme of things? We take things for granted all the time but there is so much out there that deserves a moment of wonder.

Bring some nature in

For so many of us, our homes are the places where we recharge, make memories, learn, and grow — spaces where life happens and I think it’s very important to make them “inviting”. Doing that is not complicated…

It’s spring which means that there is an abundance of flowers everywhere. “Sprinkle” some bouquets throughout your home: on your coffee table, on your nightstand so that it’s the first thing you see when you open your eyes, on your desk — it will bring joy. If you’re looking for long-lasting options, I recommend statice flowers (also known as limoniun) — they come in a variety of colors, dry out beautifully, and keep their look for years. Also, bring in eucalyptus branches — add some in your bathroom as well. Or, at the very least, add some greenery in your home — ferns, English Ivy — they’re all great options and they sure have a “romantic feel” about them (just check their “requirements” to be able to enjoy them for a while).

Light a favorite candle

There is just something about lighting a candle that makes our home instantly… cozier, and yes, more romantic, especially on dark, cold, and/or rainy days. Not a fan of real candles? Try this aromatherapy diffuser or these flameless candles instead.

Show gratitude and appreciation

I am more than certain — there is something or someone in your life, right this very moment to be grateful and show appreciation for. Do that and do it often.

Do things that make you happy or that bring joy

Our everyday life is full of dull moments and tasks and in order to be happy, we have to allow or pursue things that make us so. I urge you to identify what those are and choose to do one every day. Whether it’s applying a face and/or hair mask (you can do it even when you cook or clean), taking a bath, doing self-care things like giving yourself a manicure or pedicure, or something else entirely like painting, reading, photography, running, riding a bike, or simply being idle for 2 minutes — whatever it is, make time for the things that bring you joy!

We tend to over-complicate our lives but the best things are usually simple — we just have to open our minds, slow down, and “remove the noise” to notice them. If each of us did just that, looked inward, and focused on our “own world” more, we’d be happier and less hateful as a whole (I’m speaking particularly of those people that have been working hard at hating and suppressing others lately).

I hope this blog post helps you achieve that.

xo,

Em