Here’s our teddy friend Mouche. He’s chilling out on his mini-Bianca Lorenne bedding after an enormous Christmas lunch. 

Mouche is the result of a passion project from one of our gorgeous knitting books in-store, knitted with care by Alison as a way of relaxing over the holidays. We could all follow Mouche’s example this summer, so we’ve put together a list of 8 ways to make the most of this holiday season.

By taking the time to relax and focus on yourself over the holidays, you’ll not only feel more fulfilled and energetic, but you’ll also benefit from improved overall mindset, health, and wellbeing.

Process your past year

Set time aside to be somewhere quiet and reflect on all that has happened. The good, the bad, the ugly, and the amazingly unexpected. Make sure to acknowledge all your wins, big and small, instead of just focusing on what went wrong – it will give you a better perspective. If you have the extra time, plan for the year ahead by making SMART goals.

Get enough sleep

Sleep is an essential element of relaxation and renewal. Schedule some alarm-less days over the holidays, treat yourself to a sneaky nap, or just lounge around with your eyes closed, listening to life pass around you. Every little bit of rest helps.

When you feel bored, tuck your phone in a drawer

Are you constantly soothing away feelings of boredom with a phone? The next time you feel that way, rather than picking up your phone, perhaps consider: what might be more rewarding or relaxing? Boredom can steer us towards realising our potential and living full, meaningful lives. When you don't need your phone right now, pop it in a drawer away from sight. In a Time article called ‘Being Bored Can Be Good for You – If You Do It Right’, Jamie Ducharme writes that studies show that “the benefits of boredom include creativity, problem-solving and better mental health”.

Sudoku, Puzzles, Crosswords, Board Games

Speaking of benefits, puzzles and games aren't just fun activities for adults; they're vital tools for maintaining cognitive health and overall wellbeing. The dopamine hit you get from placing a puzzle piece, solving a crossword, rolling a dice to your favour or writing a number in a Sudoku grid is addictive, in a good way!

Read a book

When you have days on end to while away, sinking your teeth into a novel can be such a rewarding and relaxing way to spend time. Holiday reading allows you to fully immerse yourself in a gripping plot, with each chapter igniting your imagination.

Create a chillax playlist

Collating all your favourite tunes has never been easier thanks to streaming platforms. Why not create the ultimate soundtrack to accompany your road trip, morning jog or lazy day around home? Music is a welcome accompaniment to cooking, puzzling, socialising and dare we say it, even cleaning.

Immerse yourself in nature

Discover a new bush walk, meander barefoot along the beach at sunset with waves lapping at your ankles, or pack a picnic basket and find a shady spot in the park or by a river. Whatever your idea of being in nature is, now’s the time to ‘just do it’.

Make a list of things you want to do, not things you have to do

For those of us that lead busy lives, holiday time is precious and disappears like sand through our fingers. Therefore it’s important to remember that your downtime is yours; you have the power to opt-out of things you don’t want to do. Treat your holiday like extra pocket money, spending it on what brings you joy.

Wishing you the most relaxing summer break, BL x