Because sometimes the smallest rituals bring the biggest sense of calm.

Life gets loud. The to-do lists are endless, and I’m no stranger to that feeling of rushing from one thing to the next without taking a breath. But I’ve learned that slowing down doesn’t have to mean clearing your diary or escaping somewhere remote (although that sounds lovely). It can happen right here, in the middle of your normal; in your kitchen, your hallway, your bath.

Here are ten little ways I’ve been learning to slow down when everything feels like too much.

1. Light a candle while you work or cook

It sounds simple, but it works. I light a candle while packing orders, cooking tea, or answering emails, and it completely shifts the mood. One small flame, one calming scent — and suddenly I feel more present, like I’m anchoring myself in the moment.

2. Wear the socks you save for best

I used to keep my favourite socks for weekends or “when guests come over”; now I wear them when I feel like it: when I’m tired and need a boost. It’s a quiet little hug for your feet that no one else sees but changes how you move through your day.

3. Brew tea slowly, in a pot or infuser

Pouring tea from a pot feels slower. More mindful. Even if I only sit down for five minutes before something else calls me away, those sips feel sacred. A Twist Tea sachet or a Bird & Blend Chai are my go-tos when I need a pause.

4. Create a ‘slow drawer’ or tray

I’ve started keeping a few little calming things in a drawer in the cabin - a lip balm, a rollerball, a notebook, a sachet of herbal tea. When I feel overwhelmed, I open it and just choose one thing. It reminds me that even in chaos, I can make space for calm.

5. Write down three things you’re looking forward to

It helps when the day feels heavy. It could be as small as “lighting the Cosy Night In candle later” or “clean bed sheets tonight.” It’s a way of shifting your thoughts from pressure to presence.

6. Step outside, even for a minute

When I’ve been working all day and the kids need me or dinner’s calling, I sometimes just pop out the back door for 60 seconds. Deep breath. Wind on my face. A robin singing in the tree. That’s often enough to help me come back in feeling reset.

7. Put on music that changes the mood

Not always calming spa music - usually its a bit of Dua Lipa, Kasabian or 90s songs I know every word to. Music has the power to set the tone of a room, or your whole evening.

8. Create one corner that feels calm

You don’t need to redo your whole house. One chair, a candle, your book and blanket - that’s your slow corner. I’ve done this in the cabin and it’s where I go when I need a moment of stillness.

9. Do one thing without multitasking

Fold the washing without a podcast. Drink your tea without scrolling. Moisturise your hands slowly. I’m learning that giving one thing my full attention feels like exhaling - and that’s something I can give myself, even on a full day.

10. Say no more often, with softness

This one’s hard, but it’s a work in progress for me. Protecting your time is one of the most powerful ways to honour your energy. Slowness isn’t selfish - it’s necessary. And saying “not today” makes space for all the little rituals above.

I’ve learned that hygge doesn’t have to be grand or curated. It just needs to be real - and intentional. A moment lit by candlelight. A cup of tea you actually taste. A drawer that reminds you to care for yourself.

I’d love to know: what’s your version of a slow moment when life feels too busy?