Hello 2021! New Beginning! A simple resolution!

Written by: Rosie Dang

A new year means a new beginning and a fresh start. We finally said goodbye to 2020, a year of unprecedented challenges. As the new year begins, we feel that we need to make changes in our life, start on a new path, and do new things. 

I honestly do not have a long list of my resolutions for 2021. Well, my only simple resolution written in the checklist is to be healthier. I will start somewhere small where I can put into practice right away. I believe starting a year with a healthy mindset and body would bring a long-lasting energy. So, let’s try an easy way to feel encouraged and stay motivated to achieve other personal goals and targets that come along for the rest of almost 12 months.

In the spirit of keeping everything fresh, a simmer pot is my practice. As I write this, I have the simmering potpourri in the saucepan; I like to look for an opportunity to refresh my home. Still, your house/apartment must fill two roles – it is where you live and where you work or learn (at least for 2021). The pure natural fragrance of the steam brings a good feeling, and helps motivate my mind. 

My DIY homemade scent fills my apartment with warmth thanks to the cinnamon and ginger, but it also brings moist, clean air with citrus, thyme, lemongrass and mint. The combined aromas are perfect for the new start. I love the ease of throwing these ingredients into a pot of water and letting it fill the house with fantastic scents all day long. A tip that I have learned is reusing your potpourri stove by keeping its content in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. You can simmer these ingredients about three or four days in a row. Below are the ingredients I used for my simmer pot:

– Sliced orange and lemon
– Mint, lemongrass, and sprigs of fresh/dried thyme
– 1 or 2 cinnamon stick(s) & few slices of ginger
– Water

Tips: Don’t forget to keep an eye on the pot every one or two hours. I set an alarm or a reminder on my phone. It should fit with your break while you are studying or work. This recipe also helps to relieve coughing and congestion. The citrus and spices make up an unbeatable team when it comes to fighting germs!

So, what is your favourite smell that brings you to a happy mood?

I hope that at the beginning of the winter term, a new year with the expectation for a better future, you’ll get a chance to recharge yourself with a fresh mind and full of energy.

Happy simmering, happy January! All the best for the bright new 2021.