Why You Need a Little Hygge in Your Life
Have you heard of the Danish concept of hygge? If not, you are in for a treat my friend. Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) can be defined as a feeling of coziness and contentment, but it is also so much more than that; for the Danes, it's a way of life. Hygge incorporates a feeling of togetherness, comfort, home, relaxation, safety, and warmth. Picture this in your mind: It's a cold, rainy Saturday. It's daytime but you wouldn't know it by how heavy the clouds are. You decide to stay home, light a fire, and cozy up on the couch with a cup of tea and a good book. This is hygge. Or, remember how you feel at Christmas time. The twinkling lights, the smell of the Christmas tree, the cookies baking in the oven, the sense of togetherness you feel with all of your loved ones under one roof. This is also hygge.
Why You Need Some Hygge in Your Life:
Hygge invites you to slow down from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We can be so busy with our jobs, our families, and our obligations that we forget to pause and just be. By incorporating hygge into your life, you will have a chance to relax and restore yourself. Hygge is basically the ultimate form of self-care in that it combines coziness with other ways to fuel your soul. Hygge also focuses on being present and cultivating a sense of gratitude. By adding a little hygge to your life, you have the chance to see benefits in your mindset and heart.
10 Ways to Practice Hygge in Your Everyday Life:
Try a new slow cooker recipe.
Light some candles and take a warm bath.
Have friends over for an in-home potluck dinner.
Have a movie night with tons of blankets, pillows, and treats.
Begin knitting or crocheting a project.
Bake a desert with loved ones.
Dedicate a couple of hours to just you and a good book.
Go to your favorite coffee shop.
Play a board game with friends.
Make a cup of hot chocolate, tea, or cider and sip it without doing anything else.
Even though the Danes coined the term hygge, anyone can practice it. With a little intention, you can start hygge-ing today. The next time you feel yourself caught up in the business of life, take some time to cozy up with a good book, slow down, and get your hygge on. If you love this concept and want to know even more about hygge, I highly recommend checking out The Little Book of Hygge, which goes more in depth into these concepts.
Your gal,
Kayla
