Perhaps you’ve heard the word but wondered about the hygge meaning? Or further still, how — or why — you should find ways to incorporate it into your life. Hygge is a Danish concept that I’ve brought into my life. Here’s why I think you should too.

Winter is at our doorstep and with it can come feelings of loneliness, isolation, and solitude. Things that once bloomed with life and vibrancy now lie dormant. The world loses color and warmth. The sun which gives us literal happiness in the form of serotonin hides behind a grey veil. The last years have been harder than most.

Happily, there are things we can do to embrace winter on our own terms. Make it a point to delight in, instead of dread, the slowing down of things. Take in what makes us happy and grateful, and leave what brings on feelings of sadness. Embracing these elements is what makes winter feel cozy and inviting, transforming the season into a time of warmth and comfort. Essentially, embrace the hygge meaning and allow winter to be a time of uplifting reflection.

HYGGE MEANING

The word hygge, (pronounced HUE-gah) is a Danish concept that equates to a quality of coziness in everyday life. It’s a danish word and sentiment embodied in Scandinavian countries, of inviting warmth and comfort into your life, both into your abode and into your lifestyle. It is not decor choices but rather a feeling of contentment and intimacy. Everyone could use a little hygge in their lives.

In Scandinavia and other extreme northern parts of the world, winter is a time of little light. Instead of hibernating and waiting for the light to come through, the people in this part of the world have embraced the full meaning of hygge. They make it a point to bring light in and creating a warm atmosphere. This can be by bringing things that light your soul or literal light in the form of the warm glow of candles. These actions help create a cozy feeling, filling the room with warmth and a comforting ambiance.

There are endless ways to bring light and a hygge feeling into your life during the grey winter (such as take a winter vacation). The author of The Little Book of Hygge is the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, so they know a thing or two about happiness. I’ve included 5 ideas to get you started.

#1 CREATE LUXURIOUS ROUTINES

The first thing you can do will likely require no new equipment — create luxurious routines. What I mean by that is to take something simple, such as making coffee in the morning and making it into a beautiful routine. In the case of coffee, step up your game. Add some cinnamon or cardamom (or both!), or infuse your drink with cinnamon sticks for a warm, seasonal aroma, and froth your milk. Make it just a little extra and a little special and serve it up with freshly bakes pasties. Use a special mug that you have been saving for special occasions. That occasion is here! Now is the time.

Routines to Consider:

• A new morning routine (write in a gratitude journal)
• A new afternoon slump-buster routine (bundle up and go for a walk!)
• Luxurious coffee making routine
• An evening winding down routine
• Bedtime rituals
• Beauty regiments

#2 CREATE A HYGGE BEDROOM

Let’s face it, we spend a lot of time in our bedrooms. Even if we only sleep there, that’s at least a third of our lives! Make it a cozy haven that you enjoy being in. Not that you want to spend all of your time there, but when you do feel like curling up with a comfort read, you’ll want to feel welcomed and embraced. The bedroom is the perfect place to start.

Must-Haves for a Hygge Bedroom

• Warm, soft light (candles, anyone?)
• Warm blankets, soft throws, and chunky knits for extra comfort and texture
• Layered bedding
• Neutral Colors (Not a rule! Use what you find soothing)
• A decluttered space

#3 CREATE A HYGGE LIVING SPACE WITH A COZY READING NOOK

Hopefully, we have a place in our home that is not our bedroom, creating a hygge environment, somewhere cozy where we want to spend our time, is probably the most important part of creating a haven out of your home. The living room is often the central spot for comfort and relaxation, making it the perfect place to incorporate hygge-inspired decor. Remember the breadth of the hygge meaning is a feeling, and different people have different ideas of coziness and comfort. Create a space that represents your own hygge.

Must-Haves for a Hygge Living Space

• Natural touches
• Warm, natural lighting
• Cozy lighting
• Touches that bring to mind a happy place or time
• Light a fire
• Warm blanket
• Scented candle

These elements will help you create a space that enhances the cozy feel of your home.

CRAFT A COZY DINING ROOM EXPERIENCE

When the winter season arrives, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a table that radiates warmth and comfort. To create a cozy dining room experience, focus on infusing your space with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes every meal feel special. Start by introducing warm lighting—think table lamps with soft shades or delicate string lights draped along a shelf or window. This gentle glow instantly gives your dining room a cozier feel, making the space feel more intimate and welcoming.

Layer your dining chairs with plush throw pillows or soft blankets in rich, winter-inspired hues to add warmth and texture. Area rugs underfoot can make the room feel even warmer and more inviting, especially on chilly evenings. Bring in natural elements like pinecones, evergreen sprigs, or a simple bowl of holly berries as a centerpiece to celebrate the beauty of the season and add a touch of nature’s charm.

To enhance the cozy ambiance, light a few scented candles or use essential oils with comforting, spicy notes like cinnamon or clove. These scents will fill your dining room with a warm and cozy aroma, making every meal feel like a special occasion. By thoughtfully layering these elements, you’ll create a dining room that’s not only perfect for winter gatherings but also a haven of warmth and togetherness all season long.

#4 EMBRACE HYGGE BY CREATING SPECIAL MOMENTS

Hygge is nostalgia. It is a sense of safety and security. It is warm feelings. Hygge is appreciate all the seasons of the year. The nice thing is that sometimes this just happens naturally, and the whole point of hygge is that it should. These cozy routines and moments can be enjoyed year round, not just in winter. It should be easy and natural. However, when we are in the depths of winter and feelings of isolation take over, there are times we must work for it.

Making Your Hygge:

• Host an intimate dinner party (candle-lit of course!)
• Bring a special (homemade or otherwise) cake to a friend and sit and chat
• Meet friends for coffee
• Plan a crafting night
• Participate in (or start!) a book club
• Cuddle your pets

DESIGN A COZY READING NOOK

There’s nothing quite like escaping the cold weather by curling up in a cozy reading nook with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate. To design your own inviting retreat, start by selecting a comfortable reading chair or finding a quiet corner that feels just right. Drape a warm, soft throw blanket over the chair, and add a few chunky knit or faux fur pillows to boost the cozy factor.

A small side table or coffee table nearby is perfect for keeping your favorite reads, a steaming cup of hot chocolate, or a small bowl of winter treats within arm’s reach. Soft lighting is key—choose a table lamp or floor lamp with a warm glow to create a soothing, welcoming atmosphere that’s easy on the eyes during long winter days.

Don’t forget to bring in natural elements, such as a potted plant or a vase filled with fresh winter greenery, to add a touch of life and warmth to your reading nook. Layering in these cozy home decor touches will transform your space into a warm and cozy sanctuary, perfect for unwinding and enjoying a peaceful moment, no matter how cold it gets outside.

#5 LET NATURAL ELEMENTS IN

Faux greenery is a low-maintenance way to bring the beauty of nature indoors, adding a fresh and lively touch to your space.

Try these ideas:

• Display found twigs or bare branches in a vase for a sculptural, minimalist look.
• Arrange pine cones in bowls or baskets, and sprinkle with faux snow for a cozy, winter forest vibe.
• Use evergreen clippings or sprigs of eucalyptus in small jars or bottles.
• Add a few dried flowers for subtle color and texture.

These simple additions not only connect you to the outdoors but also enhance your winter home decor, making your space feel warm, inviting, and seasonally inspired.

LAYER WITH AREA RUGS FOR EXTRA WARMTH

As the coldest days of winter settle in, layering with area rugs is a simple yet effective way to add extra warmth and comfort to your home. Start by choosing a plush area rug in a deep, winter-inspired color to anchor your space and provide a soft, warm surface underfoot. For an added layer of coziness, consider topping your main rug with a faux fur or sheepskin rug—these textures not only feel luxurious but also help your room feel cozier and more inviting.

Area rugs are perfect for defining different spaces within a room, such as a cozy reading nook or a warm and welcoming dining area. They help create a sense of intimacy and comfort, making each corner of your home feel like a special retreat from the cold air outside. To enhance the cozy ambiance, scatter a few natural elements like pinecones or evergreen branches around the room, bringing a touch of winter wonder indoors.

By thoughtfully layering area rugs and incorporating these winter decorating ideas, you’ll create a warm and cozy environment that invites you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the season, no matter how chilly it gets. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening alone, these extra layers will help your home feel cozier and more welcoming all winter long.

No matter where we live in the world we have the gift of nature and this beautiful world of ours. Even if you live in a city, there are trees, the beautiful sky, the sun (be sure to wear sunscreen), and the moon. Is it even possible to be stressed when looking at a beautiful sunrise? During winter you must make nature a priority — your soul will thank you.

Ways to Bring in Nature:

• Go for a walk
• Take a drive down a scenic road
• Nordic sports (snowshoe, cross country ski, etc.)
• Bring in flowers or even found twigs or branches
• Open curtain/blinds and windows if possible to maximize natural light
• Stop and smell the roses (or any available plant!)

Hygge is caring for oneself. If we are to be the caregivers and nurturers that we pride ourselves in being, we must first care for ourselves. During the winter months and the isolation of our world as it is, it is more important than ever. Fully take in the hygge meaning and all it entails — comfort, security, and happiness in things big and small.

What do you do to let the light in during winter? Do you embrace the hygge meaning? Please share in the comments!

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