The holidays are upon us, and this year, a sense of comfort is on everyone's list. It's been a year that has pushed a lot of people out of their comfort zones. Yet we're discovering you can find the coziness and joy of the holiday season right in your own home.
This holiday season is all about bringing hygge to your holiday. Pronounced hoo-ga, it's a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being. The idea is a Danish concept that we could all use a little more of this holiday season.
But how? It's easier than you think to bring that feeling of coziness and contentment to your home. Here are some ideas on how to make it happen.
Be present.
Mindfulness is an important element of hygge. You can't enjoy your coziness and contentment while doom-scrolling your social media feeds. Disconnect and be present and aware of what's going on around you. Encourage the rest of your family to do the same.
Put blankets everywhere.
Nothing says cozy like curling up under a blanket on a cold winter day. You'll have plenty of opportunities to do so if you add some blankets to the coziest areas of your house. Kids will love the extra opportunities to build a blanket fort and cuddle up.
Spend quality time together.
A lot of the family tradition behind the holiday season has gotten lost in the commercialism of it all, but it doesn't have to be. Emphasize quality time over gifts, and watch how your family's attitude toward the holidays change. They'll be looking forward to the magic of this time of year before you know it.
Get outside.
A hygge holiday doesn't only exist indoors. Get outside and enjoy some of that magical winter weather. Thawing your toes by the fire and drinking hot cocoa is great, but having fun outdoors and appreciating nature is the fun that comes before the cozy.
Get the fireplace going.
So many people are lucky enough to have fireplaces, but not everyone knows how to use it. It's important that you know what you're doing before you try to start a fire in your home. Once you go over safety rules with your spouse and kids, use the fireplace whenever you can! It adds an undeniable cozy element to any scene.
Light some candles.
Whether or not you've got the fireplace going, candles are a must. Candles add to the festivity, the warmth, and the ambiance. Between the warmth and the blankets, you'll love your hygge-y home.
Explore your creative side with meals and drinks.
Go beyond your regular meals during the holidays. Elaborate meals and yummy warm drinks are the way to happy, hygge belly. Try something you've never made before. You never know when you'll find your next tradition.
Curl up with a good book.
Swap TVs and other screens for books, and find your inner peace. Chances are, you've got a number of titles on your to-read list that you haven't gotten around to. A hygge holiday season is a perfect time to circle back.
