Hygge (pronunciation) is a concept typical of Danish culture that represents atmospheres and actions associated with a sense of comfort and fulfillment arising from the simpler things in life. It is also described with reference to feelings of welcome and familiarity. It is an easy to implement and freedom-oriented lifestyle that allows the mind to lighten up and savor the little things. To introduce it into your daily life, set up a comfortable and relaxing space, and take care of your body and mind.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Designing a Comfortable Space
Step 1. Free your house of junk
A clean space helps keep your mind fresh and clear throughout the day. Look for practical organization solutions that are not visible, such as closed shelves or hidden containers. Keep what you love and get rid of all the things that are unnecessarily taking up space.
- Making your bed every morning is very effective in making your bedroom look less cluttered.
- Clean the house thoroughly at least once a week. Break down household chores over the week and tidy up one room a day so you don't overwork yourself.
- Before buying something, ask yourself if you are going to use it more than once. If the answer is no, this object will simply become a footprint.
Step 2. If you have space, create a cozy nook to relax
Carving out a space that allows you to unplug every day is one of the main steps to take to adopt the hygge lifestyle. Look for a quiet spot next to a window where you can sit for a cup of coffee or tea and read a book so you can unwind at the end of the day.
- To make this space even more comfortable and welcoming, fill it with blankets and pillows.
- Keep a shelf of books next to this nook so you can easily access your favorite reading materials.
Step 3. Light candles to take advantage of their natural light
The light of the candles is relaxing, moreover, unlike artificial light, it creates a muffled atmosphere. The soft light emanating from various candles is more than enough to illuminate a place aimed at relaxation.
- Use candles with natural scents such as pine or cinnamon to create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.
- Electric candles are a safer and easier to use replacement if you don't have wax candles.
- To create a hygge atmosphere, place lamps in the corners of rooms rather than using chandeliers.
Step 4. Spread soft blankets around the room
Thick blankets add an aesthetically pleasing decorative note that adds an extra touch to the room, but they are also practical and comfortable. While not using them, they immediately create a greater sense of welcome and warmth.
Fill a basket with plaids of different materials to have a wide range of blankets available
Step 5. Decorate the house with plants and objects from natural materials
Indoor plants and natural wood stimulate relaxation. Imagine reproducing the typical serenity of a forest or another open space surrounded by nature. For example, you could use a bowl filled with twigs and pine cones as a centerpiece.
- To complement a different texture, look for practical accessories like fur blankets.
- Avoid using plastic or glass. Look for decorative items made of metal or wood to make the room feel cohesive.
- Collect pine cones and twigs outside the home, then put them to dry and use them to decorate without spending a cent!
Part 2 of 3: Practicing Hygge Activities
Step 1. Sip a hot drink from your favorite mug
Hot drinks such as tea or chocolate warm the heart and help relax the body. Sip them slowly for all the time you have available, savoring the taste notes of the infusion and the moment you have carved out for yourself.
Make time to enjoy the tea or coffee making process throughout the day. Consider it a daily ritual aimed at creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere
Step 2. Read a book from an armchair
Prepare a selection of your favorite books on a shelf next to the relaxing corner you created. Look for a spot in the room that is near a window or fireplace so that you have a place that allows you to unplug. Add an ottoman to prop your feet up and curl up in a blanket.
- If you can read using natural light rather than that of a chandelier, take advantage of it. You could leaf through the book by a window or by candlelight.
- If reading isn't your thing, curl up in your chair and watch your favorite movie or show.
Step 3. Start pursuing a new hobby, or pick up a pastime you neglected
Manual activities offer the opportunity to switch off and admire your work. If possible, take on new projects in the relaxing corner you created so that you can go through the learning process calmly and comfortably.
- Knitting is a slow and rhythmic activity, great for those who want to implement hygge.
- Other examples of hygge activities? Paint, embroider or make a collage for a scrapbook. In short, look for an activity that has a calming and relaxing effect.
Step 4. Indulge in hearty, home-cooked meals
Satisfying the palate helps to satisfy the mind. Take the opportunity to indulge in sweets or hearty dishes. Choose a recipe handed down by your family that takes you back in time and put yourself in the kitchen.
Prepare a complete meal from scratch! Good food will warm your heart and palate, plus you will feel good knowing that you have prepared it with your own hands
Step 5. Do the housework with a positive attitude
Postponing more pressing tasks will only cause anxiety and other negative feelings. Get them out of the way right away so you can take some time to relax. Get absorbed in household chores and look for pleasant details. For example, while you wash the dishes, watch the soap bubbles to help you relax.
Turn household chores into a game. When you finish, reward yourself with a cup of coffee or tea and a treat
Part 3 of 3: Taking Care of Yourself
Step 1. Create an "emergency pampering" kit
Take a container, then fill it with the following items: candles, everything you need to make your favorite hot drink, a book of your choice and a thick blanket. If you've had a bad day at work, when you get home, open the kit to unplug and give space to total relaxation.
In the kit you can insert all the items that you find effective to relax. If you like doing manual activities, put everything you need in the box. Puzzles and games also help you switch off and calm down
Step 2. Take a relaxing bath
Sometimes a warm bath is all it takes to unwind at the end of the day. Dim the lights and light some candles to create an even more relaxing atmosphere. Stay in the tub until you are completely filled with calm.
- If possible, read a book while taking a bath to clear your mind even more.
- In addition to having aromatherapy properties, Epsom salts help relieve pain of various kinds. To unplug and fully relax, use salts flavored with eucalyptus or lavender.
Step 3. Wear comfortable clothes like sweatpants and sweatshirts
Creating a feeling of comfort and warmth is one of the predominant characteristics of the hygge lifestyle. Wear soft, loose, and warm clothing. Use thick wool socks that make you imagine you are walking on a cloud.
If it's too hot to bundle up, wear soft-fitting clothes that allow you to relax without forcing
Step 4. Slow down and avoid rushing
Taking the time to focus on the here and now, rather than what's going to happen in the future, is one of the main concepts of hygge. If you allow yourself 10 more minutes to relax, you will savor the moment better and free yourself from all tensions.
- Wake up earlier to enjoy your cup of coffee or crossword puzzles in your corner.
- Eat slowly to savor the food and dedicate time to the delicious dish you have prepared.
