Every fall, as the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, I find myself wanting to make my home as warm and cozy as possible. This “nesting” isn’t about organizing my freezer but about filling my space with soft, comfortable, pumpkin-scented things.
I’m not alone in this seasonal ritual—it’s similar to the Danish concept of hygge. While there are plenty of materials out there about creating a hygge lifestyle, they often don’t show homes bustling with kids, toys, and the chaos of family life. Yet, I think they should, and here’s how I like to bring hygge into our home in a real, natural way during this season.
The Danish people, according to the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, are considered the happiest in the world, which is interesting given the cold, low-light winters they endure. Many attribute their contentment to hygge, which emphasizes cozy living, togetherness, and well-being even when the days are dark.
Creating a feeling of hygge at home doesn’t require much time, money, or effort. Small touches can make your home cozier and enhance everyone’s mood significantly. You don’t need a new couch to make a space feel inviting!
Think about designing small, snug spots throughout your home to promote relaxation. Lighting has a huge impact on our sleep and hormonal health, so consider adding gentle, warm lights to set the atmosphere.
Bringing a touch of nature inside can also boost well-being. Use natural materials like wood, wicker, or stone to give a sense of the outdoors.
One of the key elements of hygge is togetherness, something we often miss in our busy modern lives. To bring more connection back into our homes, take time for hygge with your family. Even small rituals can strengthen your bonds and improve everyone’s mood. You might want to start by trying some simple family traditions.
Meals have always been a significant time for bonding. Cooking up comforting meals or even sharing hot beverages like tea or hot chocolate can foster closeness.
Hygge isn’t just about making quiet spaces around the house. For us, transforming the entryway was a game-changer. It’s the first place we see when we come home and tends to collect clutter. Consider ways to make it more welcoming and orderly.
Ultimately, hygge is more of a mindset about appreciating and cherishing the present moment. While it can be challenging to slow down, the more we practice, the easier it gets. I try to find peace in small moments amidst the chaos.
If slowing down seems tough, I suggest finding tranquility in a cozy spot with a good book like “The Daily Stoic.”
Do you have favorite ways to make your home feel cozier? Have you tried incorporating hygge into your life? I’d love to hear about it!
