The essence of hygge is about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the little things in life with good people. But how do you ensure that your life is hygge friendly?
There are little things you can change or incorporate into everyday life help make this happen.
The first thing you should do is create a homely and comfortable space. Whether this be your entire home, your dorm room or a room in your apartment, make sure it is a space where you can feel relaxed and comfortable. It could even be a cozy corner in your favourite local café.
It doesn’t matter if it is inside or outside or if you have more than one hygge space. The important part is that you have a place where you can hygge by yourself or with friends and family
Once you have a space, make use of it (and make your time in it tech-free time!)
Read a book, magazine or watch a movie. Allow yourself to switch off and get lost in the pleasure of simply relaxing. Forget about the everyday stresses and problems and allow yourself to wind down, surrounded by candles, music you enjoy, a glass of wine.
Remember hygge is about community. Invite loved ones over for a candle lit dinner. You don’t need an occasion to invite friends or family into your home. Get them to enjoy the experience of hygge with you. Involve them as you prepare dinner and sit down and enjoy it together.
After dinner, sit by the fire with family or friends and tell stories. Laughing, joking, drinking and eating with loved ones – this is the essence of hygge.
The important thing is to have fun, be comfortable and enjoy the moment while it lasts. Check out the book Scandinavian Comfort Food: Embracing The Art of Hygge for some food inspiration.
Another way to bring hygge into your life is to do some home baking. The smell of freshly baked goods is instantly going to make any home cozier. Get your family involved in the baking process and sit down together and enjoy the deliciousness you have baked.
Remember hygge isn’t only something you can do indoors.
Bring more hygge into your life by going for a long walk with your partner, friend, dog or by yourself. No matter what the weather is like, the Danes love to go for long walks. Having a hot chocolate or coming home to a warm meal after your walk is one of the best parts.
Cycle more. Denmark is well-known for its devotion to bicycles. In Copenhagen, there is almost 400 kilometers of bike lanes throughout the city. So instead of driving to the supermarket for milk why not cycle. Or go for a cycle with friends after work.
Most importantly, put down your phone, tablet or laptop. If you are constantly on your phone you’re not truly practicing hygge.
It is about enjoying the moment and that is hard to do when you’re constantly looking at funny cat videos on YouTube!
Try to start doing these simple things every day and you will begin to appreciate and enjoy the little things in life that can truly make you feel happier.
Stay Cosy
Mark Nicholson
