Embrace the Scandinavian Love of Winter Hygge and Make Your Home Extra Cosy
As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, many of us find ourselves spending more time at home. While it can be tempting to grumble about the early sunsets and frosty mornings, the Scandinavians have a different approach, and it’s one we can all learn from.
Hygge (pronounced ‘hyoo-guh’) is the Danish & Norwegian art of comfort and cosiness, a form of everyday togetherness. It’s all about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Think flickering candles, chunky knit blankets, pumpkin spice lattes and time spent with the people you love.
Rather than battling against the dark evenings, hygge invites you to embrace them.
What is hygge?
Hygge doesn’t translate perfectly into English, but at its heart, it’s about feeling safe, content and connected. It’s a lifestyle concept that’s hugely popular in Denmark, a country known for its long, cold winters and equally strong sense of community.
While it’s often associated with home comforts, hygge isn’t just about candles and hot chocolate; it’s about taking time to slow down, be present and enjoy life’s little luxuries.
How to bring hygge into your home
You don’t need to redecorate your entire house to embrace hygge; just a few small changes can make a big difference to how your space feels.
Create an atmosphere
Harsh overhead lights are the enemy of cosy vibes; instead, try soft, warm lighting like table lamps, fairy lights and candles. The gentle glow instantly makes a room feel more inviting. Just be sure you blow any candles out before going to bed, and don't put them near anything flammable.
Pile up cushions and blankets in soft-textured fabrics like wool, faux fur or chunky knits. There’s something deeply comforting about wrapping yourself in a soft throw while the wind howls outside.
Introducing delicious, seasonal scents into your home plays a huge role in creating atmosphere, that might be freshly baked cinnamon buns, a pumpkin spice candle or a simmering pot of mulled wine or hot chocolate on the hob.
Find joy in simple rituals
Hygge is just as much about what you do as how your home looks; it’s about slowing down, taking time to enjoy the moment, and finding romance in your everyday life.
That could mean curling up with a good book and a mug of peppermint tea, hosting a relaxed dinner party with friends, or baking something delicious just because it makes you happy. Even mundane tasks like folding laundry can feel a little more special if you’ve got a favourite playlist on in the background.
Social vs solitude
While hygge often involves spending time with friends and family, it’s equally about enjoying your own company. A movie night with loved ones, complete with blankets and bowls of popcorn, can be just as cosy as a solo evening of self-care.
It’s about being intentional with your time, whether that means laughter and conversation or peace and quiet.
So, as the nights grow longer, why not embrace the season rather than endure it? Wrap up, slow down and bring a little hygge into your home. You might just find that winter becomes your favourite time of year.
Sheilas’ Top Tip: Don’t forget to ensure you have the right level of home insurance to protect your hygge haven.
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