Nights are dark and cold, and hopefully I'm not on my own in wanting to stay in, get cosy and read books. The Danish word Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) has now become mainstream and it translates to a cosy feeling of warmth, wellbeing and connection.

With that in mind, here are some of my winter reading recommendations for you to enjoy as you practice the art of cosiness:

Who Moved My Cheese. Dr Spencer Johnson.

I read this at least once a year. Its a very small, but profound book. It's basically a large leaflet so you can read it in one sitting. It's both amusing and enlightening.

It's a story of four characters who live in a maze and look for cheese to nourish them and make them happy. 'Cheese' is a metaphor for what you want to have in life, like a good job, a loving relationship, money or possessions, health or peace of mind. The maze is where you look for what you want, perhaps the organisation you work in, or the family or community you live in. The problem is that the cheese keeps moving...

The Buddha Pill. Dr Miguel Farias

Last year I attended a seminar with Dr Migeul Farias, where we looked at the science of meditation.

Millions of people meditate daily, are you one of them? You'll have heard how meditation has a positive impact on a persons thoughts and behaviour. But can we actually change through meditation? This isn't another book about the route to enlightenment and happiness. Expect to challenge assumptions about the uses and effects of meditation and yoga. The Buddha Pill is controversial and argues that personal change effected by these spiritual practices can vary widely from one individual to another, and that peace and compassion may not always be the end result.

The Buddha, Geoff and Me. Edward Canfor -Dumas

I've lent this book out so many times, and every one of my friends have loved it! It's a wonderful read, I love fiction with a message.

Ed is having a hard time - at work, in his love life and, well, generally. Then he meets an unlikely Buddhist - who drinks and smokes and talks his kind of language. Bit by bit, things begin to change...

The Secret Lives of Colour. Kassia St Clair

This one was suggested by the book group members, I know a few people have read it, but even if you haven't yet; doesnt it look lovely on a coffee table!?

A mind-expanding tour of the world. Every colour has a story, and here are some of the most alluring, alarming, and thought-provoking. Very hard painting the hallway magnolia after this inspiring read!

I always love book recommendations, so do contact me with yours. You can also join my book group in person, or be part of the group on my online Facebook community.