Hygge.
hyg·ge /ˈh(y)o͞oɡə,ˈho͝oɡə/
noun
A quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).
Many of us associate hygge or the art of coziness with fall or winter - things such as candles, the smell of bread baking, thick knit blankets and a hot drink in front of a cozy fire. But how can we bring that contented feeling with us throughout the year?
In my opinion one of the things that makes those activities stand out in our mind is the whole-body feeling of it - incorporating all our senses. We feel the warmth of the fire and the mug in our hands. We smell the warm chocolate or coffee. We see the storm raging outside and the peaceful power of the fire within. We hear the crackling logs and we taste our drink. Our whole body is involved, all five senses, in a beautiful moment of slowing down, relaxing and becoming fully present with ourselves and with our people.
So if we take this full-body, 5 senses approach to creating hygge moments, what might that look like in the spring? Here are some ideas:
Get your hands dirty. Whether you are a beginner or a pro gardener, digging in the dirt, patiently tending to green and growing things is a great way to slow down, be outside, and receive a different sensory input than we might be used to.
2. Open your windows! I even like to do this when it's raining. Letting the outside in, airing out the pollution indoors, feeling the breeze and smelling the fresh air is a delightful way to enjoy hygge in the spring.
3. Do you have a special drink for fall or winter? Find one for spring as well. Could be an iced coffee, a Raspberry Mocha, lemonade, infused water - whatever you settle on, take time with it just as you do in the colder months. Sit down with it, drink slowly, be present.
4. Many of us have special music we listen to in the colder months. Why not do the same? Think about what albums or music feel like spring to you. You can create your very own playlist specifically for spring! Or you can check out mine if you're in need of inspiration.
5. There's nothing quite like fresh linens! Maybe it's time to refresh your towels or your bedding. Do a bit of spring cleaning so you can crawl into a clean, fresh bed at night. Or perhaps you are in need of an overhaul? We recently replaced our bedding and it's amazing what a difference it makes not only in general coziness but in quality of sleep! I've linked what we got below if you are interested.
Sheets and Pillowcases
What feels hygge to you in the spring? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
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