A few weeks ago, I walked into my home after a very long, stressful day and immediately wanted to turn around to walk out.  The smell of that morning’s breakfast lingering over the pile of dirty dishes made me want to crawl in to a ball and disappear. None of the beds were made, there was piles of laundry in every corner and toddler toys sprinkled on the floor.  Aside from the mess, Hygge was no where to be found.  It just wasn’t the cozy, comfortable place that I deserved. The walls were bare, the lighting was bad and in that moment, I realized that most days all I wanted to do at home was sleep but even my sleep space was mediocre; I didn’t enjoy the space.  I didn’t want to curl up with books. I didn’t want to curl up with my husband.  It was nothing more to me than a place to lay my head. It was a house not a home.

I immediately set a goal to consciously create an atmosphere for myself that felt warm, cozy, safe, and peaceful. An atmosphere where I could set the tone for more productive days and become more open to clarity, gratitude and growth in my everyday life.  This is when I discovered Hygge.

What is Hygge? 

Hygge (pronouced “Hoo-ga”) is a Danish concept that is better defined in how you feel. It is the act enjoying simple pleasures  and embracing the feeling of coziness, comfort, and harmony. It’s a lifestyle for the Danish  and is said to be equivalent to what Freedom is to Americans. Some describe hygge as coziness of the soul.  It’s more about atmosphere and experiences than it is about things.

How to Achieve Hygge?

1. 1. Atmosphere: Dim your lights or light candles to create an atmosphere that is warm and cozy.
   2. Presence: Unplug from devices and social media. Be present in the moment. Right here, right now.
   3. Pleasure: Grab your coffee, tea, favorite cookies, candy, softy teddy bear, puppy … all of those simple things that you enjoy.
   4. Togetherness:  Grab your child, your friend, your parent, hubby or wife and reminice about the good times.  If you are alone, maybe grab a journal and jot down memories that bring joy.
   5. Gratitude: Be thankful for this moment. Take it all in. Appreciate everything as it is right now.
   6. Comfort: Curl up in a soft blanket, with  your cozy socks, and plush pillow. It’s all about relaxation.

Items to Help Achieve Hygge

Short, colder days usually mean we spend more time in our homes but this doesn’t mean it has to be a dreadful,depressing place to be. Like me, be intentional about making your home a more peaceful place. Bit by bit, pick up items that add to warm, cozy feeling you desire. Below is a list of things that make achieving a state of Hygge easier.

1. Throw Blankets
2. Fleece throw pillows
3. essential oils
4. Candles
5. Duvets and cozy comforters
6. natural light

I will be updating this post with personal Hygge photos soon.