10 Simple Ways to Hygge

Hygge (pronounced Hue-guh) is essentially the state of coziness and contentment. One may think of candles and fluffy socks, but it’s so much more than that!

The Danish word means, ‘creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people.’ — Visitdenmark.com

Sure, lighting up some candles and throwing on some woolen socks is a recipe for a cozy time, but if one wants to ‘up their hygge game’ they must focus on taking time away from the daily rush to slow down, relax and enjoy life’s quieter, more simple pleasures. To hygge, one must pursue things and people that make you really appreciate the moments that make up your life.

Since each of us experience this life in a different way and speed, we will experience hygge in a different way. But, the essence is always the same. It’s being open to things that speak to you and create lovely moments that cultivates coziness within.

Many times, you’ll see hygge associated with winter and the colder months. While winter is prime time for hygge, hygge is something that is achievable all year. You see, it’s almost a state of mind. Taking a break from the to-do list and taking a breath. There is no agenda. Most importantly, there’s no rules. A typical misnomer with hygge is that you have to be with other people to hygge. No, one can experience cozy all on their own; it’s just enhanced when you’re sharing a moment with all the people you love in your life.

So, I bet you’re asking: how do I hygge?

Here are 10 ideas for ways to hygge that will help you feel all the feels:

Perfect a difficult recipe.
You know, that recipe in your favorite cookbook that has all of these steps and ingredients, but you’ve been dying to try. Or, perfect one you’ve made before that you know will make you feel good. Here’s a recipe for my favorite soup that I love to make when looking to hygge: Coconut Pumpkin Soup. Grab your favorite friends and share your bounty with the group.
Have a picnic
Grab your favorite blanket, your cutest outfit that makes you feel good, a basket, thermos of adult beverage (my favorite is Strawberry Margarita), some cheese and crackers, seasonal produce and head out to your favorite park nearby. Bonus points if you can walk there. Heck, pull up your favorite square of grass in your lawn. Either way, enjoy your favorite snacks, drinks and weather outdoors while one with the earth—so hygge
Throw on some old tunes
I’m talking Ray Charles, Brenda Lee, Tony Bennett, and Ella Fitzgerald to name a few. Notice the way the instruments produce sound and make you feel, differently than the music of today. The use of brass, woodwinds and voice is unlike anything on the radio today and can bring about a nostalgia that will cure any stress.
Light all the candles, using a match
Gather as many unscented candles as you have and light them all using a match, focusing on the act of lighting the candle. Commit with intention to be in a space for a set amount of time while watching your favorite show, chatting with friends (on zoom or in-real-life, or playing games. If you want to be a little more internal, repeat some affirmations to soothe any anxiety you may be feeling. Here’s some suggestions.
Make a fire
Sitting around an outdoor bonfire or a fireplace, surrounded by closest family and friends while sipping mulled wine or cider, um yes. Listen to the crackle and pop of the wood and how it burns. Feel the warmth of the flames and how it makes you feel. Bonus points if you are covered in a furry blanket and have cozy socks on.
Leave your ego at the door
Hygge is equality and about the well-being of everybody. A spirit of consensus is preferred and arguments are unlikely or unwelcome when in moments of hygge, as no one wants to ruin the positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Make snowcream
It’s basically a snow cone made with a milk and sugar mixture. First, mix together 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup milk (any kind), 1 TSP vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. When it starts to snow, leave a bowl outside to collect the fresh flakes. You’ll want to collect about 8 cups worth. Once you have a desired amount, stir snow in milk mixture. Top with sprinkles and enjoy right away!
Hand written note
Send a hand-written note to someone who could use a pick-me-up. And, if you really want to go all in—get some legit stationary. There is some really cute stationary on Etsy that’s dying to be sent to your grandmother. Writing out your thoughts, ideas, things that have been going on is truly therapeutic and feels great. The act of writing the note, putting the card/paper in the envelope, writing the address, placing stamp and physically mailing it is a great way to bring cozy into your soul.
Throw Blanket for every season
One may associate a particular texture or fabric with a particular season. Winter: Fluffy and Cuddly textures. Summer: light and airy. When you’re picking out your clothes, blankets, and pillows give a little extra thought to what you want to experience when you’re using them. Choose with intention.
Host a sledding party
Grab a group of friends, some apparatus to slide down a hill and prepare to feel like a kid again. Yes, you’ll probably be sore in the morning, but the laughter will make it worth it—trust me. After you’ve spent an hour or two racing each other up and down the hills, building speed bumps to see who can get more air, head inside for a bowl of stew and some freshly made bread. Bonus points if you share a cheese board and some mulled wine before you dig into your soup.

There you have it. Ten easy ways you can hygge. Create your own ways to do the above and remember, there’s no perfect way to create cozy or to feel good—it’s all unique to you. If you didn’t pick up on it already, the more intentional you can be with your life and the more connections you’re creating (with yourself or with others), the more warmth you’ll feel inside. When you create opportunities to feel cozy and content, life just feels that much sweeter and a little bit less overwhelming.

If you’d like to know how I hygge in my home, here’s some of my favorite products that create a feeling of cozy and content when I use them.