Perhaps you’ve heard of the Danish-Norwegian term “hygge,” (pronounced ‘who-ga’), but what does it mean? Loosely translated, it means “to give comfort, joy, or courage.” It’s the perfect mindset and inspiration for feeling warm and cozy during these colder months, although, fun fact, it’s possible to hygge year-round, as it’s about the feeling of comfort and joy — and this feeling can be defined differently by everyone. However, as we’re in the winter season, let’s focus on how to make our homes and spaces feel hygge now.
As this is a Scandinavian term, a great hygge inspiration is an IKEA catalog – seriously! Think lots of wooden furniture, neutral tones, minimal décor, twinkle lights, and green plants indoors. Now, I’m not suggesting you purchase anything new, but these images can serve you well for making your space oh-so-cozy. So if you have a nook in your home, you can make it hygge with items you already own. Light some candles, pour a warm mug of tea (or wine!), and snuggle up with a good book on a cold night – that’s hygge!
How about just hanging out in your comfiest sweatpants and slippers, watching Netflix, and enjoying fresh popped popcorn or leftover holiday cookies? That’s hygge, too… and it’s even better if you have a roaring fire nearby. Wrap yourself up in a warm blanket, and you’re there. (Bonus points if you crocheted the blanket yourself!) If it gives you a warm, fuzzy, cozy, comfy feeling, you’re doing it right.
READ: My New Year’s Resolution: Learning to Love Myself
You don’t need to be solo to enjoy the feeling of hygge. What about having a fun afternoon playing board games or completing a puzzle with friends and family? Of course, lighting candles or having a fire nearby, and sipping warm drinks, makes it even cozier. There are no rules, so don’t feel like there’s a right or wrong way here. Just make it cozy and happy, that’s the goal.
Let’s list some ways to hygge at home with your family:
- Lighting candles or having a fire burning
- Enjoying warm drinks
- Wearing comfy clothes
- Snuggling under fuzzy blankets
- Eating comfort food
- Placing green plants indoors — which helps with the air quality, too!
- Reading a good book
- Watching a fun movie
- Playing board games
Now that Christmas is over, you can keep that cozy and comfy feeling going with these tips. Hygge is my absolute favorite! So, how do you hygge?
