How to be a “Hygge” Family

First of all, what does “Hygge” mean, exactly?  Wikipedia tells us it’s “a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.”  Think cozy-togetherness, unplugging and embracing the everyday.  Children naturally live in the moment and seek the exact atmosphere we are hoping to achieve.  So, if you get lost along the way follow their lead! 

Here are 10 easy ways to create a hygge environment as the cold weather approaches:

1. Dim the lights: think fireplaces, candles, twinkle lights or even just using the dimmer switch.  Electric fireplaces or battery operated candles are a great alternative with littles in the mix.
2. Music: play music that makes your heart glad, no matter the genre, just go with what makes your family connect and smile.
3. Build a nest: think cozy blankets and heaps of pillows, perfect for snuggling and connecting.
4. Eat: easy, warm and hearty recipes that you’ve always enjoyed and that you can all cook together as a family.  Fill your home with delicious smells and your bellies with warmth.
5. Slow down: unplug from your devices and stop multi-tasking, enjoy each item on your list as it comes and have your children help you, use the time to connect.
6. Dress the part: cozy sweaters, chunky socks up to your knees, long underwear and plush slippers…surround yourself and your children in comfort this season.
7. Appreciate nature: whether it’s a walk in the woods or appreciating the way the sun shines into your home in the early hours, stop, take notice and share it with your children. 
8. Embrace your inner child:  remember the things you adored as a child, blanket forts, telling jokes and stories or turning the lights off and playing hide-and-go seek with flashlights. Share these warm memories by playing with your children.
9. Connect: Read aloud as a family, play classic card and board games or even watch a movie together…whatever helps you snuggle and laugh together.
10. Bond: hug and hold hands, give kisses, dance together or give piggy-backs or have a family sleep over in the living room…just be…together. 

Doesn’t this list make the cooler months seem so much more appealing?  It’s okay to semi-hibernate as a family, I say “embrace it”! Happy hygge-ing!

 

-Sue