No one would dare deny that 2016 has been a rather challenging year at times. As the year has progressed, different troubles and disagreements have dominated the headline news.
When you’re constantly reading somewhat depressing statistics and news stories can feel threatening and almost dangerous; it can be tempting to just hide away from everything and everyone.
Well, those clever people in one Scandinavian country in particular know all about this.
What is Hygge & Why Are People Talking About it?
Hygge is the art of embracing coziness and making yourself feel good throughout the winter months. Something I appreciate as a Boston lifestyle blogger attempting to prepare her for a cold stretch of months.
They have made this an art form. Originally formed in Denmark, where natives endure long, harsh winters with very little light.
In fact, there is very little light after 3 pm every day throughout the winter months (and here we are complaining about our daylight savings.)
Hygge is about accepting the dark days and making the very best of them. It’s about doing the things that you love when the light is sparse. It’s about being kind to yourself and the people around you.
Below are a few ways you can embrace this positive way of life, and spread a little light in your pocket of the world.
Opt for Softer Natural Light
How wonderful is it in Fall and Winter when you can dim the overhead lights and get by with just a few gorgeous candles.
I typically light them in the hours before bed but do so even earlier on the weekends to further support my self-care routine.
Whether you’re looking to add a calming scent to your environment, or solely looking for the atmosphere the soft light provides, some Danish recommend lighting at least five to get yourself into the Hygge frame of mind.
Be Conscious in Avoiding Waste
As all of our favorite stores lead up to Christmas, we have started to feel bombarded with discounts and sales.
Now, sales can be a wonderful thing – especially at Christmas but it’s important to be sure we don’t lose our heads.
Hygge is all about appreciating what you have already. Electing to not spend money on materialistic things as they will not provie long-term happiness. Comfort yourself with gratitude instead.
Make Bath-time Playtime
If you do want to go shopping for ~things~ opt to invest in things that will provide you a prolonged sense of happiness, like bath oils.
Treat your skin to luxury and give your tired body a good soak. How wonderful is it that throughout the winter, one of the joys of coming inside from a wintery day is enjoying a piping hot bath.
Once you have cleansed your skin, moisturize until you feel. Do this as often as you like and make it a super relaxing routine.
Take Special Care in Welcoming Your Guests
A true Scandinavian tradition is to really look after anyone that enters your home (invited or not!)
Danes always help visitors feel instantly at ease by offering to take their coat, seating them by a fire to warm back up, and get them a hot drink of their choice.
Decorate your home with cozy pieces from your favorite local boutiques, and online shops like Love The Sign and find ways to anticipate their needs before they have a chance to realize them themselves (my favorite hostess duty.)
Take a moment for yourself
Whatever it is that helps you unwind, make sure that you’re doing it regularly.
Hygge is about being comfortable in your own skin and loving all of your hobbies and habits (without holding back due to what others may think.) If you love to read, make sure you make time to sit down to do it.
If painting your nails every Sunday night makes you feel calm (Lauren & Kelly); give yourself that time. Put your phone down for a while and disconnect with the world. It’s the only way you’ll reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
Wrap yourself in a plush bathrobe while at home, and even plusher sweaters when it’s time to head out.
There are many other meaningful aspects of this movement. This is another article if you’re looking to learn more about why America especially is going to be buzzing about Hygge, what this wellbeing trend entails, and especially what it does not include!
