Dear Winter Blues, Meet Hygge: The Danish Art of Cosiness
-It’s the most hygge time of the year-
Why so glum, chum? Why it’s finals season and for many of us, it's that time where our seasonal blues kick in. The rain pours relentlessly, days are short, and the sun has been in hiding for ages. This dreary weather easily affects our mood, motivation, mental health and energy levels.
With so many cold, dark days ahead of us, many of us retreat to what brings us comfort on a cold winter's day. Whether that may be the warmth evoked by a home cooked meal with friends, getting cosy by the fireplace, or perhaps even conducting the little rituals that give us joy like brewing tea in our favorite mug, and lighting a candle to cast the winter shivers away. Much like most unexplainable feelings, there isn’t quite a word in English that captures this essence. However, there is in Danish - “Hygge” (pronounced hoo-guh).
Hygge is expressed in many ways; it’s a feeling or moment, whether alone or with home, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary, but is always cozy, charming, or special (Hygge House). But most importantly, it alters our mental well-being. Hygge shows that warmth is not only a physical state; It's a mental one too. By reminding ourselves to appreciate the heartwarming moments and being grateful for what we have can provide the necessary mental shift to get through the long winter months.
The Danes are known to be some of the happiest people on Earth (according to the World Happiness Report of 2016). By creating simple rituals without much effort, this positive outlook has become naturally embedded into their lifestyles, and perhaps, yours too.
5 Ways to uplift your mood with “Hygge”
Hygge starter pack
There’s tons of ways to feel hygge. A Danish person is likely to tell you how important it is to create a hyggelig atmosphere at home. Start by burning some candles. Fireplaces, blankets, wool socks, or anything knitted are welcomed to create a this vibe.
Get together with friends
Spending a cosy evening with friends and enjoying each others company may just be what your body and soul needs. After all, togetherness is an essential part of hygge.
Make a winter playlist
Create a cheery playlist to alleviate your bum mood. Or the opposite - channel your angst through a moody playlist and put it on blast - The Smiths and King Krule are great artists to listen to. The point is to create a soothing ambiance.
Plan exciting activities ahead for yourself
Getting out of a warm bed on a cold grey day can be a real burden. But not unless there’s something joyous to look forward to can. Planning little adventures that bring you bliss can make all the difference. Try out a new coffee shop. Stop by a flower shop. Go see a performance. Or even bring back an old hobby. It may just uplift your mood and get you feeling some type of hygge way.
Get your sweet tooth on
Hygge is associated with relaxation and indulgence. What’s more indulgent than sugar? It’s no wonder that winter is when people consume the most amount of sweets. Plan a visit to Vancouver’s Christmas Market for heaps of funnel cakes and mulled wine!
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You could technically make anything hygge. It’s all about perspective after all. The Danes created this term and adopted this lifestyle because they, too were trying to get through this cold, dark sameness, we Vancouverites feel.
Now go out there (or stay in) and have a “hygge-ful” winter.