Book + Bath Pairing : Winter Day
Our February book + bath pairing inspiration. Recipe at the end for a Warming Cinnamon Bath, plus a free copy of this month's book.
This special edition monthly blog post highlights a favorite book along with a seasonal bath recipe. Read to the bottom for a free copy of this month's book (plus many, many more).
Something about winter always makes me go back to Little Women. And I reread it almost every year. That's why it seemed doubly fitting for my first edition of Book + Bath.
Little Women begins one December, with four flawed girls sitting around the fireplace sewing and meditating on their problems. Thus begins a sweet, heartbreaking novel of these sisters growing and learning what it means to be women during and after the Civil War.
"“The four sisters sat knitting away in the twilight while the December snow fell quietly without, and the fire crackled cheerfully within.” - Louisa May Alcott, Little Women"
Louisa May Alcott originally wrote Little Women in two parts, but most copies published today unite them. You'll feel a large shift in both time and tone in the middle of the book. The prose in of itself is charming. But, to me, the best part of this book is Marmee, the girls' mother. She is truly an example of womanhood. Her gentle and loving guidance is something every girl could use.
I will warn you though, this book is achingly sad in places. It's the perfect novel for a snow day or weekend in, because you won't want to put it down.
It may have been written over a hundred years ago, but the problems and anxieties of the March sisters feel very relevant to today. I always come away from this book feeling powerful and energized; if Jo March can get through all that, so can I.
And the perfect accompaniment to the book that seems made for cold February days? The Warming Cinnamon Bath. I love drawing this bath on snowy days. It's easy, invigorating, and leaves you feeling cozy. Couples well with a hot toddy or mulled wine.
Warming Cinnamon Bath Soak Recipe
3 tablespoons coconut oil
8 cinnamon sticks, or 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg tied in a cheesecloth
Combine the honey, coconut oil, and baking soda in a bowl. Add to hot bath as water runs. After it's dissolved, add the cinnamon sticks or cheesecloth to the bath. Light your favorite cinnamon candle and enjoy while reading your book.
Now, as promised, a free copy of the book of the month! Simply click here to try a 30 day trial of Kindle Unlimited. Little Women is (of course) available, but there are thousands of other great books you can check out too! You can read on your Kindle or on any mobile device using the free app.
I hope this Book + Bath pairing adds a little sunshine to your winter day. Don't forget to comment, share, and follow us on social media! How did the recipe work out for you? What's your favorite part of Little Women? I'd love to chat with ya about it!
"“Love is a great beautifier.” -Louisa May Alcott, Little Women"