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January has brought me a new kind of challenge. On January 15th, I had surgery for cancer, and right now my focus is on slowing down, healing, and giving myself the space to recover. Recovery isn’t just about rest — though rest is essential — it’s also about finding small ways to stay active, eat well, and nurture both body and spirit.

One of the unexpected comforts during this time has been cozy gaming. Even when I don’t have the energy to play for hours, I’ve found joy in watching other gamers share their cozy worlds. There’s something soothing about seeing someone else build a peaceful town, decorate a zoo, or plant a virtual garden. It’s a reminder that creativity and calm can be found even when I’m not the one holding the controller or sitting at the keyboard.

And on the days when I do feel up to playing, even just a few minutes in a cozy game makes a difference. Whether it’s adding a handful of trees in Cities: Skylines II, tinkering with habitats in Planet Zoo, or decorating a home in The Sims 4, those small bursts of play help me relax, refocus, and feel connected to something gentle and hopeful.

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🎮 Cozy Creators Who Inspire Me

Cozy gaming isn’t just about playing — it’s also about sharing and connecting. During recovery, I’ve especially enjoyed spending time with creators whose energy and creativity bring comfort:

Biffa on YouTube, whose Cities: Skylines II builds are both inspiring and entertaining.

Sim_Michele on Twitch, whose Sims 4 streams feel like sitting down with a friend while she builds and chats.

Dr Gluon on Twitch, who always makes me laugh.

James Turner on YouTube, who plays a variety of cozy games with humor and warmth.

Deligracy on YouTube, whose creative builds and gentle energy make every video feel like a cozy escape.

Watching them reminds me that cozy gaming is a shared experience — one that can lift spirits, spark ideas, and make recovery feel a little lighter.

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🌿 Finding Balance

Recovery is a balance: staying active in little ways, eating nourishing meals, resting deeply, and finding joy in the small things. For me, cozy gaming has become one of those small things — a quiet companion on the path to healing.

Whether I’m watching a live stream on Twitch, catching up on a YouTube series, or playing for just a few minutes myself, these cozy worlds remind me that healing takes time, but comfort can be found along the way.

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Have you ever turned to cozy games during a difficult time? Whether it’s watching others play or spending a few minutes in your own virtual world, I’d love to hear how gaming has helped you find comfort and calm.