No, that is not a typo, hygge is a Danish word.
The Danish concept of hygge, or hyggelig (adj.), refers to finding comfort, pleasure, and warmth in simple, soothing things such as a cozy atmosphere or the feeling of friendship. The Scandinavian term encompasses a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being found through cherishing the little things.
While packing away all my Christmas decorations, I felt as if I was removing the cozy-ness from my home. It left almost a sad emptiness that mimicked our current climate. Speaking to my friends and family about this, it seemed I wasn’t the only one feeling this way. Sitting in my living room one evening, after one of these discussions, I was reminded of a word I heard somewhere long ago…
One of my favorite words in the English language, right up there with “irk” and “moist” is the word “cozy”. I use it practically everyday and in winter probably once and hour. Cozy is an attitude, a way of life, a feeling. I aspire to live my best cozy life, always. While I use it in my daily vernacular, I don’t use the Danish version often at all, I do admit it does feel more expressive. So how can we get behind this concept of hygge?
Shake things up! Perhaps move some furniture around or bring in a new piece. Fill your space with plants or pillows or books. You don’t need to fork out bucket louds of money to make your place feel just right. For my crafty palls out there, you can upcycle old items, revamp some dumpy looking furniture or incorporate your own art.
Find gratitude! Embrace the things you already have. Use those fancy glasses, yes the ones you are saving for that event you will never host, you are the special occasion. Look fondly at the photos’ you have displayed on the mantle and relish in the stories they tell.
Stop neutrality! I love my natural tones, maybe more than the next gal, however introducing a pop of color will welcome warmth and brightness to your space. You don’t have to go crazy here, perhaps start small with a bold plant or a statement pillow. The aim is not to loose the calmness, but to enhance the richness or the room.
Simplicity is key! Find comfort in the small things. Spend ten minutes in your favorite chair, sipping your morning coffee and just be. Cherish the chatter in the other room, your noisy animals and the ambient noises.
May you all have a very hygge 2021!
Till next time…
Life Stuff with Tania Snyman 