Have you ever noticed how hard it is to look away from a fire?
Flames have a way of pulling us in. The flicker, the crackle, the warmth on your cheeks. Even the busiest mind seems to slow down in front of one.
This week, why not take 15 minutes for a little hygge moment and sit by firelight? A wood burner, an open fire, a fire pit in the garden or even a cluster of candles will do.
A fire pit at a friend’s house counts.
Make it cosy
Once the fire is going, gather a few comforts:
- A cushion, rug or low chair close to the warmth
- Thick socks or a knitted blanket
- A mug of mulled apple juice, cocoa or tea
- Every other light in the room turned off
- A few logs within reach so you do not need to get up
Your 15 minutes of flicker and glow
- Get settled first. Wrap up and find a comfy position before you start.
- Hold out your hands. Feel the heat on your palms and fingers.
- Watch one flame. Follow it as it dances, splits and settles again.
- Listen closely. Tune in to the hiss, pop and crackle of the wood.
- Just be there. No phone, no book. Let the fire be enough.
Slow it right down
People have been gathering around fires for as long as there have been people. Sitting by one now is a lovely way to feel rooted and safe.
As you sit by the fire, try to notice:
- The colours inside the flames, blue, gold and orange
- The smell of woodsmoke in the air
- How the shadows move across the walls
- The warmth spreading through your body
Finish gently
When your 15 minutes are over, stay a little longer if you can, and let the embers glow as you wind down. Firelight is at the heart of so many cosy winter rituals.
You could also:
- Invite someone to sit with you and talk softly
- Read a few pages by the glow once the 15 minutes are up
- Find a pub with a real fire on your next walk
- Make Friday night your fire night
Always use a fireguard indoors, keep children and pets at a safe distance, and never leave a fire unattended.
Your 15-minute challenge
This weekend, give yourself 15 minutes.
Light the fire. Switch off the lamps. Pull up a cushion.
Then sit and let the flames hold your attention.
It does not have to be a grand fireplace. It does not have to be a cold night.
It just has to be this weekend.
Let the fire do the talking for a while.
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