Hygge (pronounced Hoo-ga) is a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment. Feeling safe, warm, and connected especially after being outside in the cold for a period of time.
(Adapted from www.dictionary.com)
Now that the beginning of the winter season, busy with holiday preparations and celebrations, is behind us, some of us in the Northern Hemisphere may need to put practices into place to support ourselves to "cozy in" during the cold days ahead until winter slowly releases. Many people experience the "seasonal slump" this time of year. If you are feeling this too, this practice may be just what you need.
How to make a Hygge nest:
Wood for your fireplace or wood stove - If you don’t have a fireplace, several candles are an option, or find a virtual fireplace on YouTube or Netflix!
Candles - Beeswax candles are a nice gift from our bee friends, are clean burning, and are believed to remove pollutants from the air.
Your favorite tea or another hot beverage that you enjoy.
A teapot (if you have one) – there is something special about pouring tea from a teapot.
Your favorite warm socks.
A nice cozy blanket that you really love!
A cozy chair or couch to curl up on or an ottoman for your feet.
A handcraft to work on and the supplies to go with it (knitting, drawing, coloring, painting, journaling, puzzles).
A book you’ve been longing to read.
Cozy pajamas or lounge clothes.
Soothing, relaxing music.
Some form of aromatherapy if scents don't bother you.
An eye pillow scented our unscented - used for the hygge nap!
Even if you don’t have all the items on the list, a blanket, candle, book, and cup of tea can be enough.
First, head outside for a walk, hike, to play in the snow, or participate in one of your favorite winter outdoor activities. When you return, notice how it feels to transition from the cold to your warm home. Then grab your favorite things, find your spot, and snuggle into your hygge nest!
~ Enjoy!
Signs of hope...
Did you know...that even though the Earth may appear to still be sleeping...
...that daylight is increasing each day?
...that sap will soon flow inside of the trees preparing for flowering and growing leaves?
...that seeds underneath the soil will soon begin to awaken and absorb nutrients?
...that sometimes we need to rest before blooming?
...that in that rest, blooming is still happening under the surface?
In gratitude,
Beth