The monsoon season brings a welcome respite from the scorching heat, but the constant rain can leave you yearning for cosy indoor activities. What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than curled up with a good book in a specially crafted reading nook? In this article is how to create a monsoon reading corner that stimulates your senses and fuels your literary adventures.
See also: What should you keep in mind when creating your reading nook?
Lighting
Soft and warm: Mimic the diffused light of a cloudy day with warm white or yellow bulbs. Harsh overhead lights can strain the eyes; opt for table lamps or floor lamps with adjustable shades to create a pool of light around your reading area.
Fairy lights or string lights: Twinkle some magic into your nook with fairy lights or string lights. The soft, diffused glow adds a touch of whimsy and creates a calming ambiance, perfect for getting lost in a book.
Candles: For a truly immersive experience, light some scented candles. Choose calming scents like lavender, chamomile or sandalwood to promote relaxation and focus. Remember safety first – never leave burning candles unattended.
Aromatherapy
Essential oil diffuser: Fill the air with the soothing scents of the monsoon season using an essential oil diffuser. Lemongrass or bergamot can create a refreshing, invigorating atmosphere. Patchouli oil, with its earthy, musky aroma, evokes the scent of petrichor – the pleasant smell that arises after the first rain.
Potpourri: For a more subtle, long-lasting fragrance, place a bowl of potpourri filled with dried flowers, herbs and essential oils near your reading nook. Opt for scents like jasmine or rose, known for their calming and mood-boosting properties.
Fresh flowers and plants: Liven up your nook with fresh flowers and plants. Spider plants or peace lilies are not only visually appealing but also known to improve air quality, enhancing your reading experience.
Books
Genre selection: Embrace the season! Opt for cosy mysteries, historical fiction set in rainy eras, or captivating poetry collections. Let the monsoon inspire your reading choices.
Series rereads: This is the perfect time to revisit a beloved series. Curl up with familiar characters and reminisce about cherished stories while the rain patters outside.
Comfort reads: Don’t shy away from feel-good novels or lighthearted classics. Sometimes the best way to combat the outside gloom is to immerse yourself in a heartwarming story with a happy ending.
Bonus tip
Invest in a comfortable reading chair or a plush floor cushion with ample back support. Add a soft throw and a cup of your favourite hot beverage to complete your monsoon reading haven.
So, the next time the rain starts pouring, don’t feel discouraged. Embrace the season, create your own cosy reading nook and lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book.
FAQs
What type of chair is best for a reading nook?
Choose a chair with good back support and comfortable cushioning. An armchair with a footrest is ideal, but a plush floor cushion with a backrest can work too.
Are there any safety concerns with using candles in my reading nook?
Absolutely. Never leave burning candles unattended. Place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials like curtains or books.
What are some alternative light sources if I don’t want to use candles?
Himalayan salt lamps offer a warm, calming glow and potential air-purifying benefits. String lights or fairy lights provide a whimsical ambiance without the flame risk.
I don’t have an essential oil diffuser. Are there other ways to use aromatherapy?
Absolutely! Scented potpourri offers a long-lasting fragrance. Dried flowers, herbs and essential oils can be mixed to create custom blends.
I mostly read digital books. Can I still create a cosy reading nook experience?
Of course! The tips on lighting, aromatherapy and comfortable seating apply equally to digital reading. Consider using a blue light filter on your device to reduce eye strain during extended reading sessions.
What are some good tips for choosing books for my monsoon reading nook?
Embrace the season! Look for books that evoke the rainy weather, like mysteries or historical fiction set in rainy periods. Revisit old favourites or indulge in comforting, lighthearted reads for a mood boost.
Any additional ideas to enhance my reading nook?
Add a small side table to hold your drinks and snacks. Place a cosy throw on your chair or floor cushion for added warmth. Play some calming music or nature sounds for an immersive experience.
Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com
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