How to have a Hygge Winter
Welcome to day three of the 12 Days of Blogmas!
I've been obsessed with Hygge for some time now and wanted to incorporate it into my 12 Days of Blogmas. For those of you who don't know anything about Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga), it is the Danish art of coziness and you probably have experienced it before without even knowing it.
Did you know Denmark is consistently rated one of the happiest countries in the world? Contributing factors could be things like universal healthcare, required paid leave for new mothers and free education but I also like to believe that hygge plays a big part.
Interested in possibly increasing your happiness and coziness this winter? Read on, friend.
Disconnect more
I wanted to start out with the most important part of the hygge lifestyle: disconnecting. A big part of hygge is staying present in whatever you are doing. And it's hard to do that when glued to a smartphone, tablet or laptop. Try leaving your smartphone alone for the evening or turn off your ringer. It will help you recharge your batteries and feel more refreshed than ever.
Bust out your crockpot
Is there anything cozier that coming home to the wonderful aroma of a slow cooked meal? I think not! It requires minimal effort from you and provides maximum reward.
Here are some comfort food recipes to try:
Invest in a cozy blanket
Shop the look at Target
Staying warm is key when getting cozy and I think a faux fur throw is just what the hygge doctor ordered.
Keep your skin happy
The winter can cause some pretty nasty skin issues and unhappy skin can really take away from enjoying the winter. That's why investing in a good quality lotion and chapstick for the winter is essential. I recommend Aveda Lip Saver and Aveda Hand Relief Moisturizing Creme. I've used both for years during the winter and they've never let me down.
Bake some bread
How amazing is warm homemade bread with butter, honey or jam? When planning little hygge indulgences for the season, I highly recommend it.
Go outside
I know this sounds counterintuitive but enjoying the outdoors during the winter is extremely hygge because it helps you disconnect from the fast-paced world we live in. So, go take a walk in the winter wonderland with your pup, go skiing or snowboarding with friends or try a scenic drive with your family.
Get the lighting right
Shop the look at Urban Outfitters
Lighting is very important when it comes to creating hygge in your home. The Danes are all about cozy lighting, so needless to say candles are an essential part of this look. Fireplaces are also super hygge. But you can also add some nice twinkle lights too.
Crack the books
No, not those kind of books. Reading for leisure is a great way to take a break from binge watching on Netflix and disconnect. The mind can take you to some pretty incredible places on a cold winter night when you are stuck inside.
The Puffin in Bloom Collection contains Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, A Little Princess and Heidi. Plus, with cover designs by the Rifle Paper Co., they'll look great on your night stand, bookshelf or coffee table.
Have people over
One thing I notice is lacking from other articles about hygge is the social aspect of it. Socializing with friends and family is very important to the hygge lifestyle. And the Danes are really big on sharing home cooked meals rather than going to a restaurant. So invite your loved ones over this winter to share a meal, play boardgames or just enjoy each other's company.
Treat yo' self
I'm talking cakes, chocolates and pastries. In moderation, of course. The Danes love to indulge in their favorite sweets but they do it in small amounts. And if it's homemade? Even better.
Dress cozy
From your head to your toes. Knit materials are extra hygge but so are oversized sweaters with fun details and soft, thick socks.