I've never understood people who can wear jeans (or real shoes) in their home. Ever since I can remember I've had the strong urge to change into cozy clothes as soon as I step foot into my living space.
Even as a child when I wore a albeit somewhat itchy plaid skirt (which later morphed into unflattering oversize baggy khakis in high school) as a school uniform I needed to get more comfortable immediately. I would rush up to my room to change everyday before doing anything else. And I really looked forward to after school snacks and TV so that's saying something.
These days home has also become our office, classroom, restaurant etc for many of us. Americans haven't spent anywhere close to as much time at home as we have since March.
So yes I'm home a LOT for good reason (like many of you) and I like to be comfortable. But it goes far beyond clothes - I think there's something to feeling cozy and at ease in our space that's more important than ever as we all deal with the stresses of a global pandemic.
Enter Hygge. Hygge is defined as a quality of coziness, and comfortable conviviality that embodies a feeling of contentment or well being. It's regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture.
A few years ago standing in a checkout line at a bookstore (just typing that makes me miss roaming bookstores) when I randomly decided to pick up a book about Hygge.
The book discussed how Americans are completely over scheduled, and place so much importance on being busy that we often neglect the importance of slowing down, being present and cultivating Hygge in our lives and at home.
The Danish (champions of Hygge) are known as some of the happiest, and healthiest people in the world.
I was intrigued, and started researching ways to add more of the concept into my own life. This is around the time I also had a talk with myself re: getting serious about being more intentional (which I talked about in this post.)
Now as we approach the holidays, and the colder weather for a lot us it's time to make a real effort to practice Hygge.
7 Ways to Practice Hygge At Home
- Candles, and more candles. Lighting candles is one of the best ways to set the scene for a cozy evening or afternoon. My favorites are from Brooklyn Candle Company.
- Blankets. What's better than cozying up on the couch with a blanket on a cold day? I love my barefoot dreams blanket - it feels like a warm hug. It's one that's worth the price!
- Warm Drinks. Cinnamon tea, hot cocoa, and turmeric lattes are a few of my go-to warm beverages if you need ideas. And we're not above adding a little baileys to hot cocoa on movie night ;0
- Books. Coffee table books, book shelves crammed with favorites, and the act of reading are all very Hygge.
- Cozy Clothes. The good news is cute lounge wear is more prevalent than ever. Fabletics has a ton of cute lounge wear options, and I also love Summer Salt.
- Mindful Eating. The Danish lifestyle is about intention and gratitude. Eating slowly, and enjoying our food at the table instead of shoving whatever in our mouth with the fridge open is one way to practice that intention. (Sitting down to eat is also much better for digestion.)
- Be Present. Switch off your phone, and be in the moment. Every weekend I try to take at least 1 day off of social media - no scrolling, or posting , less documenting and more just BEING. Part of my job means I'm on social media a lot during the week. I also love seeing what friends are up to BUT ...you know I've never come back from a break and thought man I wish I had been on my phone. I also remind myself no one is going to get to the end of their life and wish they spent more time on their phone.
So there you go - seven easy ways to start feeling cozier :)
How are you guys practicing Hygge?
XO,
Beth
