Simple Joys: Winter Comforts That Pair Perfectly with Reading

Theresa Wilson
18 minutes ago
3 min read

January has a special kind of quiet to it. The holiday rush has faded, the days are short, and the cold seems to soften everything into stillness. It’s the perfect time to lean into the simple joys that make winter feel comforting—especially the ones that pair beautifully with reading.

This season, I’ve been thinking a lot about the small things that make winter reading feel richer, calmer, and more nourishing. Some are physical comforts, others are cozy-life habits or experiences, and a few are those intangible vibes that make a moment feel just right.

Here are eight winter reading comforts to make your January reading feel warm, cozy, and intentional.

1. Blankets That Feel Like a Warm Hug

Cozy chair with blankets and pillows by a snow-covered window. Books stacked, candles lit, and a lit Christmas tree create a warm, festive mood.

No winter reading setup is complete without a blanket that feels like a soft cocoon. Whether it’s a plush throw, a chunky-knit blanket, or something handmade, having that extra layer gives your reading time a gentle grounding feeling.

For me, Northern BC winters make this a must. There’s nothing like curling up with a story while wrapped in something warm enough to forget the temperature outside. Choose a texture you love—fleece, knit, or faux-fur—and let it become part of your winter reading ritual.

2. Comforting Drinks (Hot or Cold!)

A cozy drink can turn even the simplest reading session into a winter ritual. Maybe it’s a steaming cup of spiced tea, a creamy hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, or coffee with a little cinnamon or nutmeg.

And if you’re not a hot drink person? Your favorite iced coffee, juice, or even water is perfect too. What matters most is that it’s something you enjoy—not the temperature.

3. Audiobook Moments for Hands-On Activities

Some of my favorite winter reading moments blend creativity with story, especially during the colder months when indoor hobbies take center stage.

Cooking while listening to an audiobook lets your senses overlap: the smell of herbs, the warmth of the oven, the rhythm of chopping. The same goes for activities like Lego building (my personal favorite), knitting, or puzzle-making—anything that’s tactile and soothing.

While I personally don’t get into audiobooks, I definitely see the appeal of being able to “read” while doing something with your hands. It opens up whole new moments where stories can accompany you.

4. Cozy Journaling or Thoughtful Note-Taking

Cozy winter scene with open book, candles, and hot drink by a window. Snowy forest view. Text: Simple Joys of Winter Reading.

There’s something healing about journaling on cold winter days. It doesn’t have to be deep or structured—

it can simply be cozy-life inspired: gratitude lists, “books I finished this month,” soft reflections, or tracking your seasonal habits.

Pairing journaling with reading creates a gentle rhythm: reflect, read, breathe, repeat. It’s also a lovely way to mark the start of a new year with intention.

5. Slow Winter Mornings Dedicated to Pages

January feels like the world is finally whispering, “Take your time.” Slow mornings—especially weekend ones—pair perfectly with reading. Staying under the covers a little longer, opening a book before checking your phone, or setting aside a quiet hour with no agenda can make your winter days feel expansive instead of cold.

There’s something magical about beginning your morning wrapped in stillness, with nothing but a book and a soft winter light peeking through the window.

6. Seasonal Ambience (Lighting, Sounds, Atmosphere)

Winter ambience adds its own kind of magic to reading. Soft lamps, twinkling string lights, candle glow, or the hush of snowfall outside—all of it blends into the atmosphere of a perfect winter reading session.

If you want to enhance the mood even more, try:

Fireplace crackling ambience
Gentle instrumentals
Winter forest or cabin soundscapes
Subtle lo-fi playlists

Not necessary, but deeply satisfying.

Cozy scene with a person reading by candlelight, a cup of tea on the table. Text: "Snacks That Make Reading Cozier," www.wanderlustcanadian.com.

7. Winter-Inspired Snacks to Nibble While You Read

Comfort food just tastes better in January. A small plate of snacks—cheese and crackers, seasonal fruit, a warm muffin, or something simple you baked earlier—can turn reading into a tiny celebration.

Nothing fancy needed. Just something that feels like a treat to accompany your story.

8. Creating Your Own Cozy Reading Ritual

One of the biggest “winter reading comforts” isn’t a thing—it’s a ritual. Lighting a candle before opening your book. Reading for 20 minutes after dinner. Setting aside a weekend afternoon just for yourself.

These small, predictable moments become anchors during the cold months. They make reading feel like a steady companion and winter feel a little softer.

Finding Your Own Winter Reading Comforts

Winter gives us permission to slow down, get cozy, and savor the smaller things. You don’t need all eight of these comforts—just the ones that make your reading time feel special and personal to you.

Tell me in the comments: What winter comforts pair perfectly with your reading life? Which one will you try this January?