ON THE FACE: A SMILE       
When low-pressure systems settle over the city like a weighted blanket, trees creak in the wind and daylight never quite seems to arrive, your mood might as well be gathering dust alongside the tins in the pantry. The reason? Without sufficient sunlight, the brain produces less serotonin, while levels of the sleep hormone melatonin remain elevated even during the day. Unfortunately, we have little control over the weather. Our mood, however, is another matter. A smile can feel like a warm ray of sunshine. It costs nothing to look up from your puddle-dodging dance and give someone a friendly nod beneath their umbrella. Turning up the corners of your mouth can lift your own spirits while sparking positive emotions in others. Almost instinctively, they smile back. Many of the animal figures from our Porzellan Manufaktur have a similar effect: the mischievously grinning porcupinefish, the winking elephant, the cheerful family of mice …

IN THE POT: SUNSHINE
Another way to defy the grey: a little indulgence. A generous bowl of creamy lemon risotto is aromatherapy for the soul and the stomach. Our favourite recipe for two sunshine seekers: finely chop one white onion and one clove of garlic (if you have friends in Umbria, ask them to send you some aglione) and gently sauté in a little olive oil. Add 200 grams of Carnaroli rice and toast briefly before pouring in a ladleful of warm vegetable stock. Simmer gently, stirring until the rice has absorbed the liquid. Add another ladleful of stock and repeat until the rice is al dente, about 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in cold butter and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Wondering where the citrus comes in? Right here. For a touch of California cool, choose a Meyer lemon. Craving Italian dolce vita? Go for an Amalfi lemon. Or let a makrut lime transport you straight to Asia. Whichever you prefer, freeze the washed, organic fruit the day before and grate it into the risotto just before serving. This way, you capture the full aroma of both zest and flesh. Finish with a little pepper and fresh herbs (parsley or coriander), then bring the risotto to the table in a generous serving bowl. Your little escape is served.