As the days grow shorter and cooler, many of us find ourselves spending more time indoors, craving warmth and comfort. While the beauty of our gardens may rest through the winter, nature has a way of coming inside with us—through scents, textures, and intentional moments. One simple yet powerful way to bring the outdoors in and lift your spirits during the cooler months is with a simmer pot.
A simmer pot is a modern take on potpourri, only better. Instead of simply displaying dried botanicals in a bowl, you gently heat them in water on the stove, filling your home with their aromatic magic. This practice connects us to the rhythms of the natural world, bringing cozy, familiar scents to life and offering a soothing sense of well-being.
The Benefits of a Simmer Pot
A simmer pot does more than just make your house smell good—it also supports your mind, body, and environment in meaningful ways.
- A Natural Mood Booster: Scents like citrus, cinnamon, and pine can lift your spirits on dreary days, while lavender or rosemary can create a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
- Humidifies the Air: As the pot steams, it adds a bit of moisture to dry indoor air, which can feel especially nice during colder months.
- A Gentle Ritual for Mindfulness: Preparing a simmer pot becomes a moment of intentional living—choosing ingredients thoughtfully, taking a breath as you wait for the fragrance to build, and enjoying the present moment.
- Keeps Artificial Chemicals Out: Skip the synthetic candles and sprays! A simmer pot offers an all-natural way to scent your home.
How to Make a Simmer Pot
The best part? There’s no strict recipe for a simmer pot. You can use herbs, fruits, spices, and botanicals you already have on hand—or forage for ingredients in your own garden. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Ingredients:
- Citrus slices (orange, lemon, or grapefruit)
- Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, or star anise
- Sprigs of rosemary, lavender, cedar or pine needles
- Apple slices or cranberries
- Rosehips
- Bay leaves or eucalyptus
- A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Add your chosen ingredients to a small pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the pot to a simmer over low heat.
- As the water evaporates, continue adding more as needed. You can let it simmer for hours, or simply warm it for an hour or two to refresh your space.
- Enjoy the gentle aroma that fills your home!
Celebrate the Season, Naturally
Simmer pots are more than just a way to scent your home—they are a small act of connection. Whether you’re using herbs from your garden or repurposing fruit that might otherwise go to waste, this ritual helps you honor the season and appreciate the beauty of nature, even when you’re indoors.
Let the magic of simmer pots create a sense of calm and comfort in your space. You don’t need extravagant ingredients or complex tools—just a pot of water, a handful of natural elements, and a little time to savor the simple pleasures of the season.
Here at The Secret Garden, we love finding ways to help our customers reconnect with nature throughout the year. Stop by the shop, where we have beautifully packaged Secret Garden Made – Holiday Simmer Pots ready for purchase. Grab one for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one.
— Cozy wishes,
The Team at The Secret Garden
