Imagine this: You’re curled up underneath a warm weighted blanket. Sitting by a window, you watch as raindrops trickle down. A candle is lit near you, creating a sun-kissed look around you. Beside you lays a mug filled near to the brim with hot cocoa. You close your eyes and breathe in the sweet aroma. Your shoulders relax. Calm has taken over you.
Does this sound too good to be true?
It doesn’t have to be. Although this kind of situation can’t be eternal, you can implement this—implement hygge—into your daily routine. Before we dive straight into the ways to do this, however, let’s quickly give an introduction to the world of hygge.
Hygge is a Danish term literally translating to “fun.” It’s related to feelings of coziness, content, and well-being. Hygge’s origins traces back to the Nordic romanticism of the home being a “safe haven” during a hectic and busy outside life. Of course, you don’t have to have Danish roots to fully enjoy what hygge has to offer. Listed below are 5 ways to start a hygge tradition for this year and the years to come.
- Bring Out the Candles
-
Scented, unscented, short or tall. You name it. Any candle will do! Bringing in of that soft light into your space will help to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. You could also opt for dimming lightbulbs. There are plenty of lightbulb options available at Walmart, Target, and Home Depot to spice up the atmosphere in your home. Bonus tip: If you don’t want to cause a fire hazard or spend money on fancy lightbulbs, use your phone or television to display a fake fireplace. You’ll get the same ambience but without the smoke!
- Dive Into the Fuzziness
-
Now that the leaves are falling, so does the temperature. This is the best time to whip out the fuzzy robes, socks, and blankets. Immerse yourself in your choice of soft material. Feeling physically comfortable will help your mind to relax.
- Eat Simple Meals
-
Think of soups, stews, and chilis. Hygge is all about well-being and contentment so slowing down your cooking routine and finding time to prepare warm and hearty foods is one of the best ways to incorporate this Danish tradition. Let Pinterest be your guide in all things slow-cooking and simple meals.
- Drink Hot Beverages
-
It’s not hygge if there isn’t at least one hot beverage being made. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate. Regardless of what suits your tastebuds, sipping on something hot and comforting will help your body to relax. If you want to go all out and splurge, try buying fine chocolate or 100% cacao powder. Get creative with your options to make each drink a special treat.
- Talk a Walk
-
Walking among the trees can bring solace to your soul. You could walk for five minutes or 1 hour. Getting out in nature is a must for the Danish, no matter how cold it might be. There’s just something about getting fresh air into your lungs and being grateful for what you have in your life.
Hygge Isn’t Just for Fall and Winter
Just as how loving someone you care about isn’t solely for Valentine’s Day, hygge doesn’t need to be a strictly cold-weather activity. You could implement any of the above tips during any season. To the Danish, hygge is a way to make life worth living. It’s an opportunity to slow down and take in the scents and feelings of your current situation and still see the good through it all. If you’ve at least praticed this ideal, regardless of the materialistic additions, you’ve certainly have a good grasp on hygge.