The cottagecore lifestyle is all about simplicity and peace, inviting you to slow down and embrace a more mindful way of living.
Imagine waking up to the sweet serenade of birds chirping just outside your window, golden sunlight streaming through delicate lace curtains, and a gentle breeze whispering through the leaves in your garden.
This article shares 16 beautiful habits rooted in the cottagecore philosophy, designed to infuse your life with joy and tranquility.
From nurturing your own garden to crafting cozy corners in your home, these habits will inspire you to savor everyday moments and find happiness in the little things.
Join us on this journey to a simpler life, where each day unfolds like a charming storybook filled with warmth and delight.
1. Cultivate a Garden of Joy
There’s something magical about watching seeds grow into vibrant plants. Cultivating a garden not only provides fresh produce and beautiful flowers but also connects you to nature. Start small—perhaps with a few pots of herbs on your windowsill or a patch in your backyard. Gardening teaches patience and care, and nothing beats the joy of harvesting your own vegetables or picking flowers for a cozy bouquet.
Consider planting herbs like basil, rosemary, or mint, which are easy to care for and add a burst of flavor to your meals. As you dig in the soil and tend to your plants, you’ll find a sense of peace wash over you, turning gardening into a meditative practice.
To make the most of your garden, try to incorporate companion planting. For example, plant marigolds alongside vegetables to deter pests naturally. Keep a gardening journal to track your planting dates, growth, and what works best in your unique space. Remember, the more you nurture your garden, the more it nurtures you!
Product Recommendations:
• Gardening tools set
• herb seed starter kit
• decorative plant pots
2. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
A cozy reading nook is a perfect retreat for quiet moments. Choose a corner of your home that feels inviting, perhaps by a window or next to a fireplace. Fill it with soft pillows, a warm blanket, and your favorite books. Surround yourself with personal touches, like framed photos or artwork that inspires you.
Make it even more special by adding a small side table for your favorite tea or coffee. Lighting is key—consider a soft lamp or fairy lights to create a warm ambiance. This nook will be your escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, where you can lose yourself in stories and let your imagination wander.
To enhance your reading experience, try incorporating a few plants to purify the air and add a touch of nature. Choose low-maintenance options like succulents or ferns that thrive in low light. Don’t forget to keep a journal nearby for jotting down thoughts or quotes that resonate with you as you read.
Product Recommendations:
• Plush armchair
• Soft throw blanket
• Potted succulent plant
3. Embrace Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is not just a way to prepare meals; it’s a cottagecore lifestyle choice that encourages mindfulness and appreciation for food. Instead of rushing through meal prep, take your time to savor the process. Start by choosing fresh, seasonal ingredients from your local market. Think about hearty stews, roasted vegetables, and homemade bread that fill your home with delightful aromas.
Gather your loved ones for a cooking session, where everyone can contribute. Share stories and laughter as you chop vegetables and stir pots. This not only creates delicious meals but also strengthens bonds and creates cherished memories.
Explore slow cooker or Dutch oven recipes that allow flavors to meld beautifully. For instance, a simple vegetable soup can simmer for hours, developing a rich taste that warms your heart. Don’t forget to serve your meals on beautiful dishes, enhancing the experience of enjoying food together.
Product Recommendations:
• Cast Iron Dutch Oven
• Slow Cooker
• Rustic Wooden Cutting Board
4. Make Time for Nature Walks
Nature has a remarkable way of restoring our spirits and bringing clarity to our minds. Make it a habit to take regular walks in nature, whether it’s a nearby park, forest, or your own backyard. These walks provide an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the world around you.
As you stroll, pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells. Listen to the rustling leaves, feel the textures of tree bark, and breathe in the fresh air. Consider bringing a journal along to jot down your thoughts or sketch the beauty you observe.
You might even discover new paths in your neighborhood that lead to hidden gems, like a quaint pond or a field of wildflowers. Walking at different times of the day can change your perspective—try early morning walks to catch the sunrise or evening strolls to watch the sunset.
Product Recommendations:
• Nature Journal
• Eco-Friendly Walking Shoes
• Portable Water Bottle
5. Craft Handmade Gifts
In a world filled with mass-produced items, handmade gifts carry a personal touch that speaks volumes. Embrace your creative side by making gifts for friends and family. Whether it’s knitting a cozy scarf, baking homemade treats, or crafting personalized cards, these gifts show thoughtfulness and care.
Consider setting up a crafting day where you can gather materials, share ideas, and create together. This not only makes the process more enjoyable but also strengthens bonds with loved ones. A handmade gift can be a cherished keepsake, reminding the recipient of the time and effort you put into it.
Explore various craft projects that match your skills—try painting, sewing, or even DIY home decor. For instance, you could create a beautiful photo album filled with memories you share with the person you are gifting it to. The possibilities are endless, and each creation tells a story through the cottagecore lifestyle.
Product Recommendations:
• Knitting yarn set
• DIY photo album kit
• ceramic paint set
6. Host a Tea Party
There’s something delightfully charming about hosting a tea party. Gather your friends or family for an afternoon of laughter and conversation over cups of fragrant tea and delicious treats. Set the scene with vintage teacups, a beautiful tablecloth, and an array of snacks like scones, finger sandwiches, and fresh fruit.
Encourage guests to bring their favorite teas, creating a mini tea tasting experience. You can also incorporate fun themes, like a floral theme with flower-infused teas or a cozy autumn gathering with spiced blends. The ambiance should feel relaxed and inviting, making it easy for everyone to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
Consider adding a few games or activities to keep the mood lively. Perhaps a crafting corner where guests can create their own tea bags or write notes of appreciation for one another. A tea party is not just about the tea; it’s about the connections and joy shared in that moment.
Product Recommendations:
• Vintage teacup set
• Floral tablecloth
• Tea infuser set
7. Explore Foraging
Foraging is a beautiful way to connect with nature and discover the bounty it offers. Take time to learn about local edible plants, fruits, and mushrooms that grow in your area. Foraging not only provides delicious ingredients for your meals but also deepens your appreciation for the environment.
Start with a guided foraging tour in your community or read books about local flora. Always ensure you’re knowledgeable about what you pick to avoid any harmful plants. As you wander through forests or fields, enjoy the thrill of finding wild blackberries, dandelion greens, or even mushrooms like chanterelles.
Once you’ve gathered your treasures, use them in your cooking to create unique dishes. For example, wild garlic can add a punch of flavor to your favorite pasta, while fresh berries can be transformed into a scrumptious pie. The experience of foraging adds an adventurous spirit to your cottagecore lifestyle, encouraging you to explore and appreciate nature’s gifts.
Product Recommendations:
• Foraging guidebooks
• foraging basket
• field guide to edible mushrooms
8. Design a Nature-Inspired Home
Your home should be a reflection of your love for nature and simplicity. Embrace a nature-inspired design by incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and plants. Choose earthy colors that evoke a sense of calm—think soft greens, browns, and whites.
Add houseplants that not only beautify your space but also purify the air. Consider plants like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies, which thrive indoors and require minimal care. You can also create a small indoor herb garden on your kitchen windowsill, adding both aesthetic appeal and fresh flavor to your cooking.
Decorate with handmade or vintage items to enhance the cozy cottage feel. Look for woven baskets, rustic wooden furniture, or even art pieces that celebrate nature. Your home should feel like a sanctuary where you can unwind and recharge. Small touches, like fresh flowers or scented candles, can elevate the atmosphere and create inviting spaces for relaxation.
Product Recommendations:
• Wooden plant stand
• Woven seagrass storage basket
• Aromatherapy essential oil diffuser
9. Practice Mindful Living
Mindful living is about being present in the moment and appreciating the simple joys of life. Start by decluttering your space, removing distractions that weigh you down. Focus on creating an environment that brings peace and positivity, filled with items that spark joy.
Incorporate daily mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, to help you center yourself. Even a few minutes of deep breathing can shift your mindset and enhance your overall well-being. Consider setting aside time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for, whether it’s a warm cup of tea or a sunny day.
Mindfulness can also be integrated into daily activities, like eating or walking. Instead of rushing through meals, take time to savor each bite, appreciating the flavors and textures. During walks, focus on the sounds of nature, the feel of the ground beneath your feet, and the beauty around you. By cultivating mindfulness, you’ll find joy in every moment, embracing the essence of a peaceful cottagecore lifestyle.
Product Recommendations:
• Meditation cushion
• journal with prompts
• herbal tea sampler
10. Unplug Regularly
In our hyper-connected world, taking time to unplug is essential for mental clarity and emotional health. Designate specific times during the week to disconnect from technology—no phones, computers, or televisions. Use this time to engage in activities that bring you joy, like reading, crafting, or spending time outdoors.
Encourage family members or friends to join you in this digital detox, creating shared experiences and memories that don’t revolve around screens. Use the time to explore new hobbies or revisit old ones that you may have neglected. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or gardening, find joy in creativity and self-expression.
You might also consider scheduling a weekly ‘tech-free’ night, where you gather for board games, storytelling, or cooking together. This practice fosters deeper connections and allows for meaningful conversations. By unplugging regularly, you’ll find a greater appreciation for the world around you and the people in it.
Product Recommendations:
• Wooden board games set
• Handcrafted journal for creative writing
• Cozy throw blankets for comfort
11. Create a Personal Ritual
Rituals can add meaning and comfort to your daily routine, grounding you in the present moment. Design a personal ritual that resonates with you—this could be a morning coffee ritual, an evening wind-down routine, or a weekend self-care day. The key is to make it intentional and special.
For instance, every morning, set aside time to sit quietly with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. As you sip, take a moment to reflect on your intentions for the day. You can also incorporate journaling into your ritual, writing down thoughts, goals, or gratitude.
In the evenings, establish a calming routine to signal the end of the day. This could include a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing gentle yoga. By creating these rituals, you invite peace and mindfulness into your life, allowing for a deeper connection with yourself.
Product Recommendations:
• Ceramic tea set
• Leather-bound journal
• Scented soy candles
12. Foster Community Connections
Building connections within your community can enrich your life and enhance your cottage lifestyle. Get to know your neighbors, participate in local events, or join community groups that align with your interests. These connections create a sense of belonging and support.
Consider hosting a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish to share. This encourages camaraderie and allows for the exchange of recipes and stories. You could also organize craft nights, gardening clubs, or book clubs, creating spaces for creativity and conversation.
Volunteering is another wonderful way to connect with others while giving back to your community. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank or participating in park clean-up days, these acts of kindness foster a sense of unity and purpose.
Product Recommendations:
• Picnic blanket
• recipe journal
• gardening tools set
13. Keep a Nature Journal
Keeping a nature journal is a beautiful way to document your experiences and observations. This practice encourages you to slow down and truly notice the world around you. Use a simple notebook to jot down thoughts, sketch plants or animals, and note the changing seasons.
Try to take your journal outside regularly, finding inspiration from the beauty of nature. Record the colors of the leaves in autumn or the sounds of birds in spring. This not only enhances your appreciation for nature but also provides a creative outlet.
You can also include pressed flowers or leaves in your journal, making it a unique keepsake of your outdoor adventures. Over time, you’ll create a personal record of your connection to the environment, serving as a reminder of the joys of the cottage lifestyle.
Product Recommendations:
• Nature journal
• watercolor pencils set
• pressed flower kit
14. Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity for a happy and balanced life. Make it a priority to carve out time for yourself, whether it’s through pampering sessions, quiet reflection, or engaging in hobbies you love. Self-care can take many forms, from taking a long bath to enjoying a peaceful walk in nature.
Create a self-care routine that resonates with you. This might include skincare rituals, reading, or simply spending time in your garden. Schedule these moments into your week, treating them as sacred time for your well-being.
Consider exploring new self-care practices like yoga or meditation to foster relaxation and mindfulness. Surrounding yourself with positivity—through uplifting books, music, or art—can also enhance your self-care experience, making you feel rejuvenated and inspired.
Product Recommendations:
• Essential oil diffuser
• luxurious bathrobe
• Himalayan salt lamp
15. Celebrate Seasonal Changes
Celebrating the changes of each season brings joy and a sense of rhythm to life. Embrace the beauty of seasonal transitions by engaging in activities that honor nature’s cycles. In spring, plant flowers and enjoy picnics in bloom; summer calls for outdoor adventures and fresh fruit desserts; autumn invites cozy gatherings and harvest-themed crafts; and winter encourages warm fires and holiday celebrations.
Create family traditions that mark the changing seasons. For example, you could have a seasonal feast where everyone contributes a dish inspired by the current harvest. Or set aside time for seasonal crafts, like making wreaths in winter or flower crowns in spring.
By celebrating seasonal changes, you cultivate a deeper connection to nature and the passage of time, enhancing your cottagecore lifestyle with rich experiences and cherished memories.
Product Recommendations:
• Seasonal Craft Kit
• Picnic Blanket Set
• Cozy Throw Blankets
16. Create a DIY Home Spa
Transform your bathroom into a personal sanctuary with a DIY home spa experience. Begin by setting the mood: dim the lights, light scented candles, and play soft music to create a soothing atmosphere. Gather your favorite skincare products, plush towels, and perhaps a warm robe to enhance the indulgence.
Prepare a relaxing bath by adding essential oils or bath bombs, allowing the fragrant steam to envelop you in tranquility. Consider infusing your spa day with a gentle exfoliating scrub or a nourishing face mask, embracing the ritual of self-care as a holistic experience. This practice not only rejuvenates your body but also clears your mind, inviting a sense of peace and renewal into your daily life.
Product Recommendations:
• Essential oil diffuser
• plush bamboo bathrobe
• organic bath bomb set
16. Create a Seasonal Garden
Transform your outdoor space into a living canvas that reflects the changing seasons. A seasonal garden invites beauty and harmony into your life, allowing you to engage with nature’s artistry throughout the year. Choose a variety of plants that bloom at different times—spring tulips, summer sunflowers, autumn chrysanthemums, and winter evergreens create a colorful tapestry that evolves with the seasons.
Consider incorporating edible plants to add a touch of practicality to your garden. Imagine harvesting fresh tomatoes in summer or enjoying the vibrant colors of fall leaves as you sip hot cider in your cozy corner. Each season offers new opportunities for creativity, from planting seasonal flowers to designing festive decorations that celebrate the harvest.
As you nurture your garden, it becomes a sanctuary for wildlife, attracting bees, butterflies, and birds, which can enhance the natural beauty of your space. Over time, your seasonal garden will not only provide visual delight but also foster a profound connection to the rhythms of nature, enriching your cottage lifestyle.
This special garden can serve as a backdrop for family gatherings, picnics, and quiet moments of reflection, making it a cherished part of your home.
Product Recommendations:
• Garden tool set
• decorative garden stakes
• birdhouse feeder
17. Curate a Seasonal Home Decor
Transforming your home decor with the changing seasons adds a refreshing touch to your living space. With each new season, curate decorations that reflect the natural beauty around you—think pastel shades and blooming flowers for spring, vibrant colors and harvest themes for autumn, and cozy textures for winter. Incorporate elements like seasonal wreaths, scented candles, and nature-inspired artwork to create a warm atmosphere that resonates with the time of year.
Gather items from nature, such as pinecones in winter or vibrant leaves in fall, and use them as centerpieces or accents. This practice not only beautifies your home but also fosters a deeper connection to the cycles of nature, making each season feel special and celebrated. By embracing a seasonal decor approach, your home becomes a canvas that tells a story, reflecting the joy and beauty of life’s fleeting moments.
Conclusion
Embracing a cottagecore lifestyle can transform your everyday life into a simpler, happier experience filled with peace and joy. By adopting these beautiful habits, you’ll create meaningful moments and connections that enrich your life. Start today by trying one or two habits, and watch as they blossom into a fulfilling way of living.
Invite your friends and family to join you on this journey, and share your experiences in the comments below! What cottage lifestyle habits resonate with you the most? Let’s inspire each other to create a world filled with beauty and simplicity.
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