Happy New Year. Christmas is over and now it’s time to wait until winter is over. LOL. Winter is my least favorite time of the year. I mean, who likes this dreary, bitter-cold weather?
When I first arrived in the US, I complained about how cold it was. It was fall and in the 70’s! Hubby remarked that 70’s was near-perfect weather. He warned me about the winter cold claiming that it could get so bad that it would sting your face.
He wasn’t kidding. All I knew was tropical weather. I had never felt such cold in my life!
Hubby on the other hand, doesn’t mind winter because he likes the indoors. He’s a homebody. He likes that after he gets home and we eat dinner, we take it easy. The whole family cozies up in the living room together.
Have you heard of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah)? It’s a Danish term. It’s about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the simple things in life with the people you love. The goal is to destress. No wonder the Danish are considered among the happiest people on earth!
Danish winters, like ours, are dark and cold. But they’re less apt to complain about it. Instead, they make the most of the circumstances. They light candles to create a warm and cozy mood. And they use the opportunity to feel good and unwind. They slow down so that they can notice and enjoy the small pleasures in life.
I love this.
I grew up in a culture where nothing is schedule driven, where everything is laid-back. The first thing I noticed when I got here is that Americans have fuller, busier schedules. Hygge seems antiquated.
We get together weekly with my sister and brother-in-law to watch 90-day Fiance. They eat just before we arrive so there’s no need for them to entertain. They even wear pajamas. This is the kind of get-together I most enjoy. No pressure. No stress. Just hanging out.
Would you like to invite hygge into your home?
Incorporate a soft throw blanket and pillows. Light some candles. Do something easy and pleasant with your family. Invite over a couple friends if you like. Make a habit of it, as we have by revolving it around a favorite show.
No obligation is as nice as one that helps you escape the responsibilities and busyness of life. Hygge is not about doing nothing. It’s about intentionally enjoying simple pleasures with people you love.
Don’t worry. You don’t have buy new decor. Hygge is, in fact, about being content with what you have. Just set the mood.
Slow down. Unplug and put away your smartphone. Read a book, watch a movie, or enjoy some hot cocoa and comfort food.
So this winter instead of complaining about the bitter cold and the short days, embrace and make the best of it. Make something yummy and enjoy the comfort of taking it easy with the ones you love.
Jennabel
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I love your post. There’s nothing like getting cozy. We live in Florida and we find ways to Hygge even in the warm weather!
That’s awesome. I wish I live in Florida right now because it’s been really cold here lately.
I’ve been reading more about Hygge lately and I love the idea of it.
Me, too. Thank you for stopping by.
I love the idea of embracing every season – even the ones we dislike! Thanks for the inspiration and ideas! Also, your photos are lovely and make me want to be right there in them! 🙂
Aw. Thank you so much, Kayli. We love the idea of hygge. Hubby asks me to light the candle every night 🙂
Love this! I’ve been obsessed with hygge ever since I visited Denmark last year!
That’s awesome, Molly. I’ve never been to Denmark but would love to go there someday.
The whole concept of hygge is new to me. I’m learning more about it thanks to blogs like this one. It seems lovely.
Love it! My favorite line was, “Hygge is, in fact, about being content with what you have. Just set the mood.” Brilliant! Thanks so much for sharing.
Thank you for your comment Laura.