Tips To Help You Live The Hygge Life

Hygge (hoo-ga) is a feeling or mood of comfort, coziness, and serenity; achieved when you create a specific atmosphere.The term originates from Denmark and Norway, but is becoming a more popular practice in both Britain and America. Now that we have established the history, lets paint a picture of how you might experience hygge. 

Imagine that you just got home from a busy day (perhaps a long work day or a day full of errands).  You light some scented candles, change from your stifling work clothes into your favorite sweats, and pour yourself your favorite cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Now grab yourself a nice warm blanket, and turn on your favorite show or movie.  Capture that feeling, because this is hygge.  Is this the only way to achieve this feeling? Absolutely not, there are many ways to achieve little bits of hygge every single day, which is what we are going to cover here.

 

Do’s and Don’ts When Creating the Atmosphere

 

Hygge doesn’t include harsh lighting, which is why lighting candles is so popular in achieving hygge. Candles, fire, and natural lighting is super important. 

 

Do you have to wear sweats? Nope, but you do have to be comfortable in the clothing you chose to wear. Constrictive clothing, suits, ties, nylons….all become uncomfortable (which is the opposite of what you are trying to achieve). 

 

If movies and TV are acceptable, what about cell phones?…definitely not. Cell phones are the surest way to ruin hygge.  In fact the best tip you can be given is to take time every day to shut your phone off….totally off limits.  Not even for watching YouTube videos.  Start by turning your phone off or place it on “do not disturb” for an hour before bed and while in bed. You need that time to wind down without information overload.

 

Do you need to have this time alone to create hygge?  Not at all.  In fact togetherness is another attribute to hygge. It is recommended that you make it a point to have meals together. Baking, socializing, watching movies together and playing board games are all excellent ways to achieve hygge.

 

Every Day Ideas and Tips

 

1. Take a loved one and watch the sunrise or sunset together.

2. Sit in front of a window when the sun is coming through and sip on your favorite hot beverage.

3. Go for a nature walk with a friend.

4. Bake a cake or seasonal treats with someone special (your kids, nieces, nephews, friends).

5. Crack out some comfort food and some board games with a group of people…just don’t stress over cleanup and prep work, and insist that phones only be used if absolutely necessary. Face to face interactions are key.

6. As stated earlier… grab a comfy blanket, cup of coffee, and watch a good movie.

7. Spend 10 minutes in front of the window in the morning when the sun is rising, and compose your thoughts. To do lists, motivational notes, making a list of the things you are thankful for, or simply journaling can be integral in creating a sense of security and calm.

8. Sitting in front of your fireplace and going through photo albums reflecting on where you have been and dreaming of where you want to be can bring peaceful enjoyment.

9. Do you like riding bikes or horses? Take a buddy with you and shoot the breeze while you take a recreational ride.

10. At work….take a coffee break or a lunch. Take a few minutes to check your phone while on break, afterwards turn off your phone for the remaining time. Talk to a co-worker, go for a walk, or read a book/magazine with the remaining time. Connect with yourself. Life is crazy and hard…give yourself a few moments of calm.

11. Add some sweet-smelling flowers or plants to your home and work decor. Add life and sweet-smelling beauty to your atmosphere.

12. Take an extra long hot shower…relax and decompress.

13. Find an easy craft project to do with the special people in your life. Not too difficult, just a nice way to spend a little time with the ones you love the most.

14. Enjoy a candlelit dinner with your partner.

15. Turn on some twinkle lights and soft music, crack out a book or sketch pad.

16. Take a nap or turn in early, sleep/rest is important to create a hygge life.

 

Seasonal Hygge Activities

 

Fall

– Taking a walk or drive to enjoy the peak colors in the fall either by yourself or with a friend or family member.

– Watching a scary movie with a friend, and enjoy some Halloween treats.

– Make soups, chili, and comfort food.

 

Winter

– Take a drive or walk to enjoy Christmas lights.

– Enjoy some Christmas movies.

– Turn on your Christmas lights and listen to some Christmas music.

– Make delicious Christmas treats such as cookies, fudge, candies.

 

Spring

– Sit in front of your window, and set some goals for yourself and your family.

– Reflect on what you are thankful for.

– Get some fresh air.

 

Summer

– Go for walks, bike rides, horseback riding…include friends in your activities.

– Spend a day at the lake, feel the sand between your toes and go for a swim.

 

I sincerely hope that you will find time this season to add a little hygge to your life. Please share your tips to achieving hygge in the comments!

 

If you like this article, please feel free to also check out:

7 Tips to Live a Simpler and Happier Life

30 Hacks to Make it a Happier Holiday! 

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