10 Ways To Create Comfort In Your Life

Close your eyes. Imagine drinking your favorite drink, smelling your favorite candle, sitting in front of the fire snuggled in a blanket, taking the first bite of your mom’s mac ‘n’ cheese, getting a shoulder rub, and smelling freshly-baked cookies—then taking a bite of one straight from the oven.

Open your eyes. What did you feel? For many, the word comfort comes to mind—something many of us are looking for during these very challenging times. Finding a place of comfort allows us to escape from the stressful things happening around us and experience soothing moments.

It’s a challenge for many to find relief or comfort from stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, yet we desperately need to. Many folks are great at creating comforting moments for others, but when it comes to being intentional about creating comfort in their world, well, not so much. 

You can be intentional, even in times of extreme stress, about building soothing moments into your day that allow you to escape. If you’re thinking you just can’t afford to do that, here’s hoping you will reconsider. You really can’t afford not to. We all need moments that allow for a break in the action to hit the refresh button. It’s good for us, and it’s good for the people around us.

Here are some ways to create comfort in your life:

1. Make a list of all the things you love that make you happy. Do some of those things daily.
2. Indulge in your favorite comfort meal. You know, all the stuff you would typically say, “I shouldn’t be eating this…” Eat that and savor every second of it guilt-free.
3. Take time out for a walk. Make a point of looking up at the sky, watching the trees, and looking for wildlife. Pay attention to your breathing. Avoid thinking about things that are stressful in your life at the moment. Literally, take a break.
4. Laugh. Watch a funny show or talk to that friend who always makes you laugh.
5. Listen to soothing music, read a book or magazine, work on a puzzle, or on your hobby. Doing something that distracts you from the day’s stress and anxiety can be relaxing and bring comfort.
6. Sit outside in the sun and enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet. Or lock yourself in the bathroom, light a candle, and soak in a warm bath.
7. Pray or meditate. Many find this comforting.
8. Spend time with your pet. If you don’t have one, some shelters are letting people foster pets during the pandemic. You can always ask to visit your neighbor’s pet. Research shows spending time with a pet has health benefits and brings comfort.
9. Think about all the good things happening in your life. Having gratitude for what you do have can bring comfort in the face of challenges.
10. Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers because you’re worth it. If flowers are your thing, make a bouquet from your yard or grab some from the store and place them where you’ll see them frequently throughout your day.

You don’t have to do all (or any) of these things to create more comfort in your life. Choose things that bring you the most comfort or make your own list. The goal is to create an environment in your home that is comforting and safe where relationships can thrive. Now get comfy!

Related: 5 Signs You Need Some Alone Time