By now, we’re all aware that a good cocooning session involves blankets, Netflix, warm tea or coffee, and rainy weather. If cocooning is synonymous with staying in bed to you, I have news –you’re missing out! Cozying it up at home doesn’t have to mean hibernating in bed (although it could, I’m guilty of that), and it especially doesn’t have to feel unproductive. Here are our best tips for turning a cocooning session into more than just a nap (unless that’s what you want).
Mani / Pedi
This is where the ‘productivity’ kicks in. Taking time off for a mani/pedi will keep you busy and allow you to watch your favorite show at the same time. Start with hand and cuticle cream, then apply a nice base coat (they make all the difference, trust us!), and whichever mani look you’re dying to try. Doing your nails is more relaxing than you think, and when else do you get to pamper yourself?
Our picks:
Soi-Bio Hand Repair Cream, $21 online.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish in 184 Frill Seeker, $13.99 at Shoppers Drug Mart.
Puzzled?
Nothing better to bring a group of people together for a relaxing night of chatter than a puzzle. Whether you prefer the thousands of pieces or the uniquely shaped ones, puzzles are by far a better way to engage in conversation than board games. They don’t take away from the conversation but you also get to do something as a group.
Our pick:
Mediterranean Windows 1000-Piece Puzzle, $19.95 at Indigo
The Right Throw
The material of a throw blanket is a game-changer, and as pretty as the inexpensive are, it is always better to invest in nicer throws in the long run. We recommend getting smaller ones, because you can bring them around the house and use them as more than a blanket!
Our pick:
Chevron Chenille Throw – Medium Grey, $49.50 at Indigo.
Alright, Hot Chocolate
We were planning on leaving the hot chocolate out but what would a cocooning session be without everyone’s favorite winter drink. Instead, turn it into a baking session! Many recipes involve hot cocoa powder, and it’s a great way to spend time with loved ones – plus the sweet reward.
Our pick:
Cacao 70 Sesame Hot Cocoa Powder, prices vary.
Sweet or Salty
We can’t possibly forget the snacks! The perfect pairing for a good movie or TV show is the one you can munch on. If you tend to feel bloated but like to continually munch on something, lighter and crunchy snacks make up for better pairings than decadent sweets.
Our pick:
President’s Choice Sweet & Heat Popcorn, $2.99 at selects supermarkets.
Sheet Masks
Another obvious essential is the sheet masks. We’ve talked about them a lot in the past, but that’s because we can’t get enough of them! From high-end brand ones to everyday inexpensive ones, there’s one on the market for each and every one of us, and again, you can always do something else while pampering your face!
Our pick:
Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Sheet Mask, $16 at Sephora.