As the day winds down, the outdoors takes on a quiet kind of feeling.  The air turns gentle, and the evening invites you to slow down.  Let this beautiful, quiet moment wrap around you like a cozy blanket.

Soak in the quieter side of the outdoors with fun.  Create a little wonder and bliss outside on your patio, balcony, window seat or wherever you feel drawn.

This is your invitation to pause and enjoy the softer, slower side of this season with mindful, whimsical moments by yourself or a small gathering with others.

Turn your special space into a cozy place for dreaming, relaxing and sharing if you so desire with:

• Fairy lights
• Filled mason jars with glow-in-the-dark paint or battery tea lights
• Scattered LED candles for a picnic-style dinner on the lawn

Here are four outdoor evening ideas:

1.  Quiet Prayerful Moments

• Step outside after dark and look up.
• Notice constellations or the shape of the moon.
• Breathe deeply and let the stars quiet your thoughts.
• Have a quiet, prayerful moment to reflect on your day and all that you are grateful for.

2.  Stargazing Blankets

• Bundle up with a warm drink.
• Watch the night sky.
• Use an app to find constellations.

3.  Evening Story Time

• Read outdoors by yourself.
• Gather with family or friends to share a story.

4.  Backyard Glow Party

• Set up lanterns, string lights, or glow jars.
• Add music and comfy seating.
• Invite family or friends to join for a cozy game night on the patio or a storytelling circle under the stars.
• Make up tales about the stars or the day’s small adventures.

Whatever you plan, a quiet evening by yourself or a shared time with others, give yourself permission to take it slow and just be surrounded by what you love.

Here are a couple of drink ideas for you to sip and enjoy while you do so:

1.  Spiced Vanilla Almond Milk (Warm or Iced)
 Heat or chill a cup of almond milk with:

• A dash of cinnamon
• A drop of vanilla extract
• A swirl of maple syrup
• Top with a sprinkle of nutmeg or serve over ice.

2.  Vegan Golden Milk Turmeric Latte

A couple of questions for you to think about, and yes, maybe journal on:

1.  What part of your day would you like to soften?

2.  How could you create more moments, inside or outside, of relaxation and blissful joy?
 

Love and blessings,

Coach Angela Schmidt