I’m all about the Hygge this week!

The what? If you haven’t heard of the Hygge – pronounced Hue-guh it is a delicious Danish word which roughly translates into the word cosy, charming or special.

In Denmark during the winter months, there can be as little as ten hours of sunlight per week. To survive the cold, dark winter and prevent spiralling into winter depression. Hygge was created, which put very simply, is a way to celebrate and acknowledge the everyday through cosy contentment and well-being. It involves taking the time to cherish and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

You can find a ton of books on the subject as people have jumped on the Hygge bandwagon (and why wouldn’t you, it’s great), but my interpretation of the concept is pretty easy. Taking a bit of extra time for mindfulness, self-care and gratitude during a season when it’s easy to get a little down, goes a long way to lift your spirits. When I wake up in darkness and come home to darkness and have to work really hard to avoid breaking my bones on the icy pavements during dog walks, a little TLC goes a long way.

The creation of simple rituals such as brewing a coffee and taking the time to froth the milk, lighting some candles and taking delight in the flame, or warming your feet by a fire and wrapping yourself in a lovely soft blanket whilst watching your favourite TV show – it’s simply about becoming aware, and appreciating life’s little luxurious.

My Hygge moments so far this week have included:
• Eating warm mince pies with Baileys cream
• Getting up early so I can spend time making a proper coffee and savouring it
• Greyhound cuddles on my sofa
• Wearing my extra thick slipper socks ALL the time
• Coming in from work and immediately donning a onesie
• Having dinner by candlelight
• Savouring some red wine and dark chocolate
• Writing in my gratitude journal whilst burning a gingerbread scented wax melt

So what are you waiting for? Get your Hygge on!