January isn’t just a new year on the calendar—it’s a total energy shift. The holiday madness is finally over, and most of us just want to chill out and start fresh. If you’re feeling a little cabin fever and your living space looks as tired as you feel, don’t stress. This is the perfect time for a January home reset. You don’t need fancy stuff or a week off work. It’s all about small things that set a good vibe for winter.
Seriously, start with the clutter. It’s wild how much old mail, random holiday decorations, or “I’ll deal with it later” piles can mess with your chill. You don’t have to Marie Kondo your whole house. Just pick a spot that bugs you the most—like that crazy corner of your bedroom or your kitchen counter that somehow catches everything.
Crank up some music, grab a trash bag (or a donation box), and just get started. As you clear old stuff, think of it as clearing space in your head too. It’s less about being perfect, more about making room to actually breathe.
Now that you can actually see the floor, it’s time for the fun part—a little winter refresh. January can be dark and dull, so bring in things that feel good.
Switch out those heavy, cinnamon-sugar candles for something fresher. Peppermint, eucalyptus, or a squeeze of lemon (even just simmering a pot of citrus peels) can seriously wake up the energy in a room. If you’re after cozy vibes, grab some cedar or even a pine-scented candle. Scents that are still winter, refreshed. Basically, stuff that makes you feel like you can finally exhale.
It’s freezing out, so give yourself a little softness. Throw a chunky knit blanket on the couch, add some fluffy pillows, or drag out that random fleece you never use. Layer stuff so you can curl up whenever you want. Nothing fancy—just whatever makes you sigh and flop onto the couch.
Sadly, everything outside looks kind of dead right now. But bringing a little green inside can make such a difference. If you love houseplants, awesome—get them in every corner. If you kill every plant you touch, a vase with a few sprigs of eucalyptus or pinecones in a bowl works just as well. Even fake plants help. Just give your eyes something alive(ish) to rest on.
“January Reset” Courtesy of Just Dig It Farms/YouTube
Pick a spot—a chair near a window, a cushion on the floor, whatever. Claim it as your chill zone, your January home reset zone. Maybe bring your journal, some sage, or a favorite mug. Do your morning stretch, meditate, or just drink your coffee there. The more you use that little corner, the cozier and more comforting it gets.
No joke, lighting can change everything. If the overhead light is making your space feel like an office, turn it off and use some soft lamps, string lights, or a few candles instead. Himalayan salt lamps kick out a gentle, warm glow and feel super grounding. When it gets dark at 5pm, soft lighting makes home feel safe and mellow (and honestly just more welcoming).
A January home reset isn’t about stressing out to have an Instagram-perfect house. It’s about giving your space—and yourself—a break. Clear out some clutter, toss in a few cozy touches, add a plant or two, and let there be light (just not the blinding office kind). You’ll feel way better, promise. May your home be the chill, healing retreat you need until spring finally decides to show up.
More must-reads:
+
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!