I was well aware of the global craze and an admirer of the Danish concept hygge. However, I didn’t really appreciate it until recently. The phrase is now even immortalized in the Oxford dictionary. It is defined as “a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.”
I have always loved inviting friends over for meals and conversation. However, leading up to gatherings it would turn into stress to ensure everything was perfectly prepared. The same goes for our well-being — there is this level of guilt I feel for slowing down. It is a part of our culture to feel the need to always be busy. If you are not busy, you are not working hard enough.
I quickly learned that hygge is not a trend, but actually a part of everyday life in Denmark. Being grateful, slowing down, meeting with friends over good food and conversation, and creating a warm, relaxed atmosphere in your home has proven that no matter where you are in the world, you can live a more hygge lifestyle that leaves you feeling whole.
HERE ARE A FEW EASY WAYS TO EXPERIENCE HYGGE YOURSELF
NATURAL TONES.
As we move into the depths of winter we are transitioning away from brighter colors and instead gravitating towards warm earthy hues. Choosing natural tones and fibers, you are swapping your darker heavy knit jumpers for lightweight camel cashmere knits and camel tones.
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR LIVING SPACE.
This doesn’t mean going out and consuming all things cozy to achieve the look, but quite the opposite. Make sure the things you do own have a purpose and make you feel good. If you don’t need it, get rid of it. The Danes are incredibly good at keeping their spaces minimal but intentional. Less really is more.
DOT CANDLES AROUND YOUR HOME – THE MORE, THE BETTER.
Candles are essential to hygge. They instantly make space feel homey, warm and inviting.
MEDITATIVE MOMENTS.
Take a moment out of your busy day to pause and reflect. Center yourself amongst the busy-ness by taking a moment to consider all the positive things happening in your life.
UNPLUG FROM EVERYTHING DIGITAL.
Take the time to truly enjoy the present moment with family, friends, or whomever you may share your home with.
INVITE FRIENDS OVER FOR DINNER.
Instead of preparing everything yourself, make dinner together. Togetherness is the key here, and the more laid-back the night feels, the more ‘hyggelit’ the evening will be.
COZY COMFORT.
Indulging in the dark and cozy autumn evenings, you are making self-care nights your priority as you relax with your favorite binge-worthy television series and a comforting hot chocolate with plenty of whipped cream.
-SHOP THE POST-
[su_permalink]
[/su_permalink]
