A Little More Comfort
There is something about this time of year that makes me want to draw in a little.
To seek out warmth, comforting food, beautiful colours and places that somehow make me want to slow down.
While we were in Malmö recently, we stumbled across the beautiful little Café Ammna at the design museum. It had only been open for a week, but already it felt like it had been there forever. It had such a beautiful vibe.
There was so much love in everything the owner had created. The cakes were all homemade, the space was warm and welcoming, and the lady made us the most delicious Punjabi chai from a recipe that had been handed down through her family. She even shared her secret recipe with me!
It was one of those places where you could feel the care that had gone into everything. I felt my heart open.
Yesterday morning brought another little taste of autumn comfort, with breakfast at the village store in nearby Burwash. Their menu is wonderfully inspired by the presenters of BBC Gardeners’ World, and while I was there I picked up some tiny pumpkins to bring a little seasonal colour home. I love the red and white checked tablecloths and generous portions. It reminds me of some of the colourful diners I’ve visited.
Perhaps it is no coincidence that I find myself thinking about hygge at this time of year — that lovely Danish idea of warmth, contentment and creating a sense of comfort in the everyday.
As the days become shorter, perhaps there is an invitation to slow down too.
To make something warming. Light a candle. Bring autumn colours into the house. Sit somewhere beautiful with a cup of tea.
And perhaps comfort can come through connection, too.
One of the things I love about creating spaces for people to come together is the opportunity to meet others who share some of the same interests, values and ways of seeing the world. Some of you may remember the special space called Koorana that I created in Sussex all those years ago.
Sometimes friendships begin simply because we have chosen to step into the same space.
And over to you …
With my new online membership starting this week, offering a gentle space for growth, learning and connection with like-minded people, I’m thinking about sharing an in-person session this autumn. It would comprise of a few gentle hours to slow down, create, chat and enjoy making alongside others.
I haven’t booked a venue yet, as I’d first love to know whether this is something you might enjoy. I’m imagining sharing a gentle meditation, inspiration for a creative piece made in collage and perhaps a gentle story about colour — with plenty of space simply to create and connect, and maybe even savour a warm mug of Punjabi chai.
If this idea appeals, simply pop me a message and let me know. There’s no commitment at this stage; I’m just seeing where the interest might lead. If you know others who may like to join you in a group, I am happy to travel.
Perhaps that is another kind of hygge — creating spaces where we can feel comfortable enough to slow down, connect and feel like we belong.
And so, goodbye to September … your energy has felt particularly strong for me, a month of change, reflection and letting go — not least as I said goodbye to my childhood home.
As we move into October, I’m ready to draw in a little, embrace the changing season, and see what wants to emerge.
Gabrielle
We Grow Together Nature • Colour • Creativity • Connection • Personal & Spiritual Growth
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