In partnership with

Friday

“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.”

-Jane Austen

Welcome to Friday! Today, we're chatting about:

• What is cozymaxxing?

• Would you try cozy gaming?

• How to learn something new in just 5 minutes

• Chill hobbies to swap your screen time for

• The secret to better hearing

Cozymaxxing: The Ultimate Form of Self-Care You Need

In today’s fast-paced world, sometimes the best form of self-care is simply getting cozy. Enter "cozymaxxing"—a growing trend that’s all about maximizing comfort to boost your mental health. Whether it’s wrapping yourself in soft blankets, lighting candles, or simply turning off the world for a while, cozymaxxing encourages you to take a break from the hustle.

At its core, cozymaxxing involves using your senses to create a peaceful environment. Experts say this practice helps reduce stress, increase relaxation, and even improve sleep quality. From gentle lighting to calming scents like lavender, cozymaxxing is all about creating a space where you feel completely at ease.

But cozymaxxing isn’t just about fluffing up your space—it also brings emotional benefits. By focusing on what you can control in your environment, you can fight feelings of stress and anxiety. Plus, having something comforting to look forward to, like a cozy night in, can help keep you grounded and present.

If you’re new to cozymaxxing, start small. Dim the lights, make your favorite tea, and wrap yourself in your coziest throw blanket. Embrace the simple joys of comfort and let yourself relax—it’s time to reclaim your peace.

Why Cozy Gaming Is Your New Mental Health Boost

The winter months can leave you craving comfort and warmth. Cozy gaming, a trend that gained traction during the pandemic, has since become a go-to way to unwind and boost mental health. These games aren't about competition; they're about enjoying a calm, nurturing environment. Think low-stress adventures with vibrant worlds and cute characters. Games like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing offer the perfect way to escape into a serene world, where there’s no rush or pressure.

According to experts, cozy gaming can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve your mood. The repetitive, peaceful tasks—whether it's planting crops or decorating your virtual house—act like a form of meditation, offering a mental reset. Studies show that casual video games like these help with anxiety and depression, giving players a chance to zone out in a healthy, engaging way.

If you’re new to cozy gaming, start with easy-to-play games like Stardew Valley, where you can farm at your own pace, or Animal Crossing, which lets you build your dream island with zero stress. These games are designed to give you freedom, offering a nurturing environment for your mind to unwind.

Cozy gaming isn’t just about the game itself; it’s also about the environment you create. Surround yourself with cozy blankets, warm lighting, and calming sounds for the ultimate experience. It's a simple yet powerful way to practice self-care during the colder months.

Learn AI in 5 minutes a day

This is the easiest way for a busy person wanting to learn AI in as little time as possible:

1. Sign up for The Rundown AI newsletter

2. They send you 5-minute email updates on the latest AI news and how to use it

3. You learn how to become 2x more productive by leveraging AI

Sign up to start learning.

Thank you to The Rundown AI for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Swap Screen Time for These Chill Hobbies

Scrolling endlessly through social media can feel like the easiest way to unwind, but it doesn’t always leave us feeling good. If you’re looking for ways to recharge without the screen, there are plenty of low-energy hobbies to try instead.

If you're feeling creative but want to keep it simple, junk journaling might be perfect. You can fill an old notebook with scraps from magazines, ticket stubs, and even fabric scraps. It's all about recycling and creating something fun without needing too much energy.

For those looking to relax, paint-by-number kits provide a calming activity where the hard part (choosing what to paint) is already done for you. All you have to do is follow the numbers and let your mind unwind while you paint.

Want something a little more interactive? Crafting a digital collage can be a fun way to play with visuals. Use apps like Canva to create mood boards or even vision boards to set your intentions. These hobbies are low-stakes and soothing, making them perfect for lazy days.

Your Secret To Better Hearing

Wellness Round-Up:

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Earthy tones like warm browns, soft greens, and gentle oranges promote calm and comfort.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Embracing coziness isn’t just about soft blankets and warm drinks—it’s about giving yourself permission to slow down, recharge, and indulge in moments of calm. So, as you move through your day, remember to prioritize the little joys that make you feel warm and content. You deserve it.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!