With the holiday season and its stressors behind us, and a couple of chilly months ahead, it’s the perfect time to familiarize ourselves with the increasingly popular concept of “hygge.”
According to hyggehouse.com, “Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special.” The Danes always top the list in happiness indexes despite their brutal winters, so they must be doing something right!
Hygge isn’t about spending money or working to achieve a goal, but simply enjoying the present moment and creating a cozy contentment all your own. Your hygge may be lighting your favorite candle, wrapping up in a soft blanket, and reading a mystery novel. Or it’s your ritual of taking a few minutes in the morning to grind those amazing coffee beans you bought at the market, and making yourself a hot cup of joe to sip. Maybe it’s lounging in your bathrobe on a chilly Sunday morning, especially if it’s still toasty from the dryer, and enjoying the slow pace of a classic film — that’s mighty “hyggeligt.”
There are many, many ways to infuse hygge into your life, whether with friends, family or loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to bring calm and comfort into your days during this lovely Florida winter. Winter is the ideal time to perfect your warming recipes, be it a perfect carrot bisque, a classic cassoulet, or a rich, velvety hot chocolate. I like to make a big, hearty soup or stew once or twice a week, then keep leftovers in the fridge for a quick, satisfying meal.
Why not make a pot of chili, mulled wine or spiced cider, and invite friends over for board games — maybe on a Monday night to start the week with a smile? Plan ongoing group activities you can look forward to. Board games are certainly regaining popularity, but movie nights, potlucks, crafting parties, or book clubs are just as good! Blanket forts are optional, too, but highly recommended!
Small, inexpensive changes around your house can really make any season ring. While many decorate for the holidays, it’s not the only time we can do so! For winter, swap in a few chunky knit or even wool covers for your throw pillows, toss a cozy blanket on your sofa for chilly nights, or find some candles you really love. Candlemakers Petals & Glow makes the most wonderful soy candles nearby in Plant City. Find ‘em on Etsy or at a local market.
Have an at-home spa day, alone or with company. Take a bath with bubbles or epsom salts and your favorite essential oil (candlelit, of course!), give yourself a pedi, a revitalizing face mask, or whatever you enjoy. Treat yourself to special experiences, as well. Take a stroll around a shop to see what draws you in, or hop on Pinterest and explore the plethora of concoctions to make yourself!
Make sure you get outside to soak up some sunshine while Florida’s brutal heat is on hiatus. Take a walk through Boyd Hill Nature Preserve with a friend or two and observe the wildlife you might otherwise have overlooked, or go alone for a quieter stroll with some classical music in your earphones.
Small things can make a big difference, especially if you are suffering from the post-holiday blues. Hygge is here to pick you up and wrap you in the coziest of hugs. Invite it into your life and reap the benefits!
