Ten Hygge Habits to Adopt

It's a cold snowy day here on the seacoast. Our first snowfall of the season! This type of day I find is best spent being cozy under a chunky knit blanket. With the low temps and gusting winds, I can't help but do what I can to make my indoor environment feel cozy as if to compensate for the weather. These sorts of conditions have me thinking about habits that promote hygge. 

For those new to hygge, like myself, it is Danish practice about enjoying life’s simple pleasures that evoke cozy and charming feelings. While a new concept to me that I have been enjoying learning about, there are loads of books and posts on this lifestyle. Essentially it's all about promoting happiness, comfort, and contentment in your life.

Inspired by these works, here are some of my hygge habits that are easy to adopt: 

Light candles regularly
This is one habit that is seasonal for me. The cooler months are perfect for burning candles; especially the Woodwick ones. The faint glow of the flame and light crackling of the wood wick provides a cozy ambience.

Brew a hot drink 
There's nothing like making a fresh cup of coffee or tea. The warmth from the liquid just warms my core and that warmth almost radiates out. This hygge habit is one I look forward to each morning.

Curl up with a good book
Snuggling up under a blanket on the couch with a new read sounds like a great time to me. Forget your gripes and become entranced in a story. Currently I'm reading “Winter Street” by Elin Hilderdrand. With this habit comes a growing bookshelf, which is a real joy to me!

Put on a cozy sweater & socks 
So simple, yet so effective. Putting on an oversized cozy sweater and some fuzzy socks, say for that reading sesh, is a sure-fire way to bring some level of comfort to you.

Spend quality time with loved ones
For me this is the easiest way to spark joy in my life. As an introvert, I greatly relish the time I spend with those in my life that I love and am comfortable with. Whether it's having a lazy day in or going out on the town, it is really special making memories with those you love.

Indulge in hobbies
The definition of "hobby" is an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure, so I think this one is pretty self explanatory. We all have those activities we fall back on as a stress reliever or simply as an outlet to be ourselves. Personally, writing and drawing are my favorites!

Trying new things
I love trying new things! Now this may not be "hygge" for everyone, as it may not bring comfort and coziness, but for me I enjoy the simple pleasure of trying new activities that may fall into my interests. For example, I enjoy crafting, but two areas I am beginning to dabble with are knitting and embroidery. (I think working with textiles is hygge in itself!) There's something so refreshing about trying something new!

Going for a walk 
This is one of my go-to ways to bring comfort and peace into my life. It is a way to clear the mind and get active, while living at a simpler slower pace. My camera is always in hand of course, which is another hobby I get to indulge in!

Minimize belongings & organize clutter
What I am realizing about this lifestyle is that it's all about being intentional and acknowledging what brings contentment in your life. I have found this rarely involve specific material items, but rather crafting certain environments and situations. That is why this hygge habit is one I'd like to practice and be more mindful of. A cluttered space equals a cluttered mind, so I'm all for making room in my life for what is actually important. In a way it's like a minimalist's mentality, but balanced with your actual needs. For me the act of organizing can be a really special and hygge moment, too.

Prepare a home-cooked meal
Similar to the act of cleaning, the act of preparing a meal is simple, but met with a purpose. It just so happens to yield yummy food, though! From planning to purchasing to cooking and being thoughtful with each step, this routine is comforting. When it's all set and done, you can enjoy the delicious dish over candlelight. #hygge


Have you heard of "hygge?" What are some of your hygge habits?

Sincerely,

0 comments