It’s another day indoors on account of a downpour, and I thought to myself, what is the ideal way to spend a rainy evening? I figured, while I’m confined to my home, I’ll embrace the Danish concept of ‘Hygge”.
You must be wondering what exactly is “Hygge”?
Simply, Hygge [‘hoo-ga] is about seizing the moment – whether alone, with family, or friends. It’s about spending quality time in an innately relaxing environment. The whole idea of Hygge is very much associated with contentment, intimacy, warmth, simplicity, connections, and well-being. Without these characteristics, one simply isn’t experiencing Hygge.
Here are some ways to make your home more “hyggeligt” on a stormy evening.
Light up a candle or two
Hygge is incomplete without candles – use them as centrepieces on your dining table, cluster them in your bedroom, or set them on your living room table. Wherever you choose to utilise candles, they will create warmth – which is essential in crafting a cosy and warm vibe in your home.
The lower the temperature of the light, the more Hygge
Low ambient lighting is indeed a critical element in the Hygge approach. Le Klint-ish lamps are one of the easiest way to enhance a nice relaxing atmosphere in your home.
Let nature be closer to you.
Any type of plant or piece of nature in your home is most likely to obtain the Hygge greenlight.
Add soft textures
Blankets and throws are essential necessities in a Hygge home. Blankets and throws made from the softest of fabrics – such as cotton, cashmere, or merino wool will add a whole new dimension of texture to your home. Nothing feels better than snuggling up with a blanket on a chilly evening.
Create your very own “Hyggekrog”
The Danes call a comfy space in the home a “hyggekrog”. To create your own Hyggekrog, simply throw a couple of soft cushions together with a comfortable blanket, grab a book you’ve been reading, light a candle or two, pour yourself a glass of your favourite beverage, and voila! – you now have your very own Hyggekrog.
Ultimately, Hygge is about ideal comfort and giving yourself a break – and it’s also about experiencing joys in simple pleasures. As you return home after a long day at work, whenever you’re ready, take a moment to relax a little bit hyggeligt.