There’s something magical about a snow day—a quiet world blanketed in white, a chance to pause, and an opportunity to explore cozy, creative activities at home. For those of us who appreciate integrative medicine and herbal traditions, these snowy moments are a perfect time to dive into projects that nourish the body, soul, and home. Here are some inspiring ideas to make your snow day extra special.
1. Homemade Soap or Candles for Self-Care and Preparedness
Snow days are perfect for crafting homemade soaps or candles. These projects not only allow you to embrace creativity but also ensure you have natural, chemical-free items on hand—especially useful during winter power outages.
Homemade Beeswax Candle Recipe:
• Melt 1 cup of beeswax pellets with 1/4 cup of coconut oil over a double boiler.
• Add 20-30 drops of essential oils like lavender, cedarwood, or orange for a comforting scent.
• Secure a cotton wick in a glass jar, pour the melted mixture in, and let it set.
For soap making, consider infusing your base oils (like olive or coconut oil) with dried herbs such as calendula or chamomile for their soothing properties. These make wonderful gifts or additions to your daily self-care routine.
2. Crochet or Sew Warm Blankets with Organic Fabrics
What’s better than curling up with a warm blanket while the snow falls? Making one! If you have organic cotton, wool, or bamboo yarn, crochet or knit a throw blanket or scarf. Beginners can start with simple patterns like a chunky garter stitch.
For sewing enthusiasts, consider upcycling old organic cotton sheets or fabrics into patchwork quilts. Add dried lavender or chamomile sachets to the quilt layers for a calming scent that promotes restful sleep.
3. Baking with Family: A Winter-Spiced Integrative Medicine Recipe
Baking is the ultimate snow day tradition, and it can also support your health. Try this herbal twist on a classic recipe:
Spiced Herbal Chai Cookies:
• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 1 egg or flax egg
Mix dry ingredients, then blend in the wet ones. Roll into balls, flatten, and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Enjoy these warming cookies with a cup of herbal tea by the fire.
4. Gather Around the Fire: Crafting Homemade Essential Oils
Snowy days offer the perfect excuse to gather loved ones around the fireplace for meaningful projects. Making essential oils from dried herbs or leftover citrus peels is surprisingly simple.
How to Make Essential Oils:
• Place dried herbs like rosemary, mint, or lavender in a small jar.
• Cover with a neutral carrier oil like almond or olive oil.
• Let the jar sit in a warm spot for 1-2 weeks, shaking daily. Strain and transfer to a dark glass bottle.
For citrus oils, zest oranges, lemons, or grapefruits, and let the peels dry before steeping them in oil. These can be used in homemade cleaning products, massage oils, or bath soaks.
5. Herbal Teas & Canning Winter Treasures
Cold days beg for a steaming mug of herbal tea. Why not create your own blends? Gather dried chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, and lemon balm to mix your custom brews. Add a touch of dried citrus peel for a bright flavor or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.
Snow Day Canning Idea:
If you’ve stored dried fruits, citrus, or even pine branches, use this time to can syrups, jams, or infusions. For example, boil leftover dried oranges with honey, water, and cinnamon sticks to create a spiced orange syrup—perfect for drizzling over pancakes or stirring into tea.
6. Organic, Chemical-Free Household Projects
Turn snow day downtime into a chance to craft eco-friendly products for your home. Use dried citrus peels and pine needles to create a natural all-purpose cleaner:
• Fill a jar with vinegar and add citrus peels, rosemary sprigs, and pine needles.
• Let the mixture sit for two weeks, then strain and transfer to a spray bottle.
This DIY cleaner smells like winter and is free from harsh chemicals, making it safe for your family and pets.
A Snow Day to Remember
Snow days are a rare gift, offering us time to slow down and savor the simple joys of life. Whether you’re baking spiced cookies, crocheting a cozy blanket, or blending your own essential oils, these projects invite you to connect with nature, creativity, and loved ones.
What are your favorite snow day traditions? We’d love to hear how you make the most of these magical days! Stay warm, stay creative, and enjoy the beauty of winter.
Warm wishes,
Nicole
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