What is hygge?
During the last months that we have been in and out of lockdown…..more in than out I hasten to add, I decided to learn more about hygge….as it is intrinsically linked with mindfulness.
So what is it? And where does it come from?
It is a Danish word pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah, and it is 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 more I’ve learnt about it, the more I realise that the Danes have truly found out how to live mindfully and in the present moment without having to spend money on achieving the feeling. In fact, the hygge way is to be more practical, simple and to be ‘de-cluttered’ in their way of being. Some would argue that the minimalistic approach to decorating and living is exactly the same, but I beg to differ. Minimalism and hygge run parallel courses. For example Danes love their candles, they burn more per person than any other country and this helps to create a warm, cosy atmosphere that encourages the hyggeligt feeling. In a minimalist’s eyes, this would be seen as frivolous and a waste of money, and materialistic.
The Danes created hygge due to the fact that during the winter months, from November to April, their days are literally nights, with little daylight, warmth or clement weather. So they decided to embrace this rather than fight against it and use it to help their mental well-being. The undefinable feeling of hygge was a way for them to find moments to celebrate, acknowledge and break up the mundane or harsh. With so many cold, dark, days, the simple act of lighting a candle and enjoying a cup of coffee could make a huge difference to one’s spirit.
So I thought that I’d give you some ideas on how to hygge……and help ease the dread of the long dark winter nights. (but don’t think you have to spend a fortune, PLEASE, use what you already have!)
Make your rooms as cosy and comfortable as you can.
Use warm toned bulbs in light fittings to give a cosy glow. And candles, as many as you can, they don’t have to be expensive, I buy my candles that I use everyday from the supermarket!. If you have them use warm chunky throws and sofa cushions, and dig out warm rugs to put on the floor if you have them. In the UK we tend to have carpeted lounges, which gives us a cosy feeling without the rugs. Drawing your curtains against the dark is a wonderful way of bringing a comforting feeling to the house and of course, mirrors if you can to reflect the warm glow of the lamps and candles.
DIY spa day
If you are anything like me, you will have noticed that your skin has got drier and your hair flatter and drier! Treat yourself to a warm bath, with bath salts or bath bomb, use a moisturiser on your skin and give your hair a good conditioner to replenish the moisture. Just let your cares soak away by giving yourself some ‘me’ time.
In my next post, I’ll give you a little more information about hygge and another couple of suggestions on how to introduce it into your life. Until then, take care, keep safe and peaceful wishes.