You’ve probably seen the word “Hygge” pop up in a few articles during the holiday and wondered what it is all about. Well, we’re here to explain what this wonderful Danish concept is and why you definitely incorporate it into your life this holiday season.

What Is Hygge?

A Norwegian/Danish concept, Hygge is a feeling of happiness, contentment, and safety that you get when you do certain things you derive pleasure from. For example, lowering yourself into a hot bath, sipping a cup of hot cocoa (or a glass of wine) while relaxing in front of a warm fireplace, or enjoying great food with great friends and reveling in the camaraderie – the feeling you get while doing these activities is “hygge.” It’s a common practice Danish people do, particularly during the holiday season, and they are constantly ranked at the top for being the happiest people in the world. So, let’s give it a try, shall we? Here’s how:

7 Easy Steps to a Happy Hygge Holiday

Start With Your Environment 

Create a space with items that bring you joy. From sitting in your favorite chair or surrounding yourself with objects that tell a story or are meaningful to you, such as a piece of art you picked up abroad an item you found in an antique store. Make your space welcoming with lots of pillows in neutral colors, living green plants or fresh flowers, and remove all clutter. Create warmth with a fireplace or shades open on a sunny window, and create soft, ambient lighting with lots of candles or low lighting.

Get Comfortable 

Being comfortable and enjoying comfortable surroundings is a fast way to achieve hygge. Wear your favorite pajamas or loungewear, and wrap yourself up in cozy, warm blankets. Keep your tootsies warm with thick, plush socks, and cuddle up with a favorite book or your favorite person. Enjoy sipping on a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of wine and just relax – the elation you feel is what hygge is all about.

Take Time to Enjoy Your Favorite Meals & Goodies

The holidays are when an assortment of mouth-watering meals and treats arrive in abundance. Don’t deny yourself… now is the time to enjoy these goodies and all the sweet and savory delicious they have. Just don’t eat mindlessly, stuffing your face as much food as possible. The point is to slowly and mindfully savor holiday food because it comes around only once a year.

Indulge in a Relaxing Hobby

It’s easy to achieve hygge when you unplug from electronic devices and indulge in hobbies you enjoy. For example, turn off the tv and wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket by the fire to read a good book. Start an art project, bake some cookies, or play with your dog and benefit from the good feelings these things bring you.

Get Outside

Even if there is snow on the ground, getting outside in nature and breathing in crisp, cool air is wonderful therapy and an essential part of experiencing hygge. Being in nature is natural. Play in the snow, tend to your garden, or play a fun sport with family and friends. Even a solitary brisk walk in the woods provides mood-boosting benefits. Plus, getting out and about and moving around is good for the spirit, and your body.

Spend Time with Friends & Family

Time spent with family and friends during the holidays is an excellent way to achieve hygge and trumps receiving presents every time. It’s quality moments spent with loved ones that are the most important and special thing about the holidays. Be sure to make it about family and not cooking the perfect meal or finding the perfect present. They are just happy to be with you. Make sure you carve out special family time to play board games, go on hikes, or enjoy good movies together.

Be Present

Being present and mindful of your surroundings and the people around you is key to experiencing hygge. Slow down and enjoy the birds singing instead of automatically reaching for your phone. Stop to pick up some fresh flowers and enjoy their wonderful fragrance and beauty instead of rushing to get home, and when you’re talking to someone, give them your full attention and be present for them, especially if you are with a good friend or family member.

With the above guidelines, you will no doubt have yourself a very hygge holiday! Keep these concepts in mind and follow them throughout the whole year to benefit your overall well-being and happiness. One of the easiest and quickest ways to do this is to fill your home with beautiful, seasonal fresh flowers and green plants. Here at Rose Hill Flowers, we are happy to help you with all your floral needs for everyday beauty and special occasions.