Do you ever take a moment to just pause and consider what your true purpose is? I recently took a moment to dig deep and try to define this. It’s not easy to laser in on exactly what this is and of course it will be different for all of us. I have realised that my true joy in life is creating comfort. For myself, for my family and for others.
For myself it comes in the form of making my home as beautiful and welcoming as possible. I am constantly looking around at what needs refreshing, whether it’s some new bedlinen, cushions, plants, a whole room makeover or sometimes just a good clean and declutter. It gives me so much happiness to look around and see my home as a nurturing environment. For my internal comfort I look to activities such as walks in nature, yoga and a warm cup of tea. Fortunately, my work provides me with an outlet to create comfort for others through making their homes beautiful and turning them into a sanctuary.
Recently I felt myself in need of some extra comfort to get me through the morning. I am not a huge fan of dairy or refined sugar but I felt the pull of a ‘hug in a mug’ so I came up with this recipe. I thought it was perfect and have made it a few times since. It hit all the right notes for me and for those of us that only drink coffee on occasion, the cacao also provided a nice little zing. I lit my beeswax candle, watered my plants and all was right with the world again.
My ‘Hug in a Mug’ Healthy Hot Chocolate
One cup milk of choice (I used good quality almond milk)
1 tablespoon cacao
1 tablespoon organic maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt
Heat gently in a saucepan, pour into your favourite mug and enjoy!
Another activity that brings me great comfort is reading. A lot of my time is spent reading beautiful home decor books and magazines so you can imagine my delight when my latest order ‘A Tree in the House’, by Annabelle Hickson arrived on my doorstep this week. Annabelle is a self trained florist and provides simple ideas and instructions on creating arrangements for all occasions. Not only are the pictures a sheer delight but the way Annabelle narrates her relationship with nature makes you want to grab the nearest pair of secateurs and get creative. If you’re after some botanical inspiration I highly recommend it.
‘A Tree in the House’ by Annabelle Hickson
What can be more comforting than beautiful art? Fortunately for me I am generally surrounded by stunning works of art. Choosing art is such a personal experience so my level of assistance with my clients when choosing art ranges from client to client. Some clients want me to make the selection, some want to do it themselves and some want it to be a joint effort. In all cases I have my little black book of favourite suppliers that I pass onto them for their perusal. One artist on my list who continues to produce inspiring work is Chalie MacRae. Her use of colours and brush strokes evokes not only a gorgeous backdrop for any room but also a feeling of calm. Follow her on instagram @chaliemacrae for regular inspiration. I think every post I see is a mini meditation for me as it forces me to stop and take it in.
So yes, creating comfort through seeking out beauty is my thing. I could quite happily pour my self a cup of healthy hot chocolate and read my book in my favourite nook under inspirational artwork any day of the week.
Happy styling.
Amanda x
