You might be wondering, what is hygge? Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish word that can be summed up as “cozy living”. In the winter, it’s especially important to focus on creating a cozy environment for yourself and your family to enjoy. Here are my best tips and tricks for how to live hygge in winter!
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Wrap up in a soft blanket, light a few candles, and get ready to enjoy some of the best tips for living hygge this winter! These simple tips will help you create a cozy atmosphere in your home and enjoy all the good things winter has to offer.
But, first, let me explain a little bit more about the hygge lifestyle, why we love it so much, and how it can inspire you to live your best life this winter.
What Is Hygge?
The word “hygge” (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish term that doesn’t have an exact English translation. It can be summed up as “cozy living”. Hygge is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere and enjoying the simple things in life.
In the winter, it’s especially important to focus on creating a cozy environment for yourself and for your family. The shorter days and colder weather can make us all feel a little down. But by following these tips, you can make your home into a hygge haven and enjoy the winter months!
Why Embrace the Hygge Lifestyle?
The Danish are some of the happiest people in the world, and many experts believe that hygge is a big reason why. When you focus on creating a cozy atmosphere in your home, it has a positive effect on your mood and well-being.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to boost your happiness this winter, start by embracing these simple tips and making your home more hygge!
How to Live Hygge in Winter: Best Tips & Tricks for Cozy Living
Ready to start living the hygge lifestyle? Here are 25 of my best tips and tricks for creating a cozy home this winter!
1. Sip Something Hot
One of the best ways to get in the hygge mindset is to sip something warm. Whether it’s a hot chocolate, tea, or coffee, take some time to relax and enjoy your drink. Make it even more cozy by adding in a blanket and some soft music.
2. Invest in Cozy Candles
Candles are an essential part of the hygge lifestyle! They create a warm, inviting atmosphere and make any space feel more cozy. When choosing candles, go for scents that make you feel happy and relaxed. Some of my favorites are from Antique Candle Co. The Country Pear scent is an absolute dream.
3. Get Snuggly Blankets
There’s nothing better than snuggling up in a cozy blanket on a cold winter day. Invest in a few good quality blankets that you can use throughout the season. I love the blankets from Barefoot Dreams. They’re an investment that’s well worth it. You’ll be surprised at how often you reach for them!
4. Get Outside
Even though it might be cold outside, getting some fresh air can do wonders for your mood. Bundle up and go for a walk, or just sit outside and take in the fresh air. You’ll feel refreshed and invigorated in no time. We love to walk around the zoo in the wintertime when the animals are really active and it’s less busy.
5. Start a Fire
If you have a fireplace, make good use of it! There’s nothing more hygge than sitting around a warm fire with your family or friends. If you don’t have a fireplace, you can create a similar atmosphere by using candles or string lights.
6. Pamper Yourself
Take some time to pamper yourself with a bubble bath, face mask, or manicure. You deserve it! My favorite pampering products are from Leahlani Skincare and are cleanly and ethically sources out of Hawaii. Enjoy the mermaid mud mask or the purification mask for a truly luxurious experience at home.
7. Cook a Delicious Meal
One of my favorite things to do in the winter is cook a delicious meal. Whether it’s a hearty stew or a potpie, there’s nothing like a good home cooked meal on a cold day. Some of my favorite cookbooks are Halfbaked Harvest and Magnolia Table.
8. Create Cozy Spaces
When you’re transitioning your decor into wintertime, try to create cozy spaces around your home. This could mean using lots of pillows and blankets, putting up a Christmas tree, having a fire going in the fireplace, & incorporating lots of candles or lamps as well for beautiful lighting on those dark winter nights.
9. Visit Friends & Family
Spending time with loved ones is always cozy. Plan a dinner party, game night, or just hang out and chat. You’ll have a great time and create lasting memories.
10. Try A New Seasonal Activity
There are so many fun seasonal activities to try in winter! Go ice skating, sledding, or snowshoeing. Or maybe try something new like cross-country skiing or curling. You’ll have a blast and get some exercise in too.
11. Invest In Some Cozy Clothes
One of the best ways to feel cozy is to wear comfortable clothes. Invest in some soft sweaters, cozy socks, and warm slippers. The Danes invest in clothing that they absolutely love and feel amazing in, and you can too! Build your dream capsule wardrobe using my free guide. You’ll be happy you did!
12. Plan A Weekend Getaway
A change of scenery can do wonders for your wintertime blues. Plan a weekend trip to a cabin or rental house in the mountains. Or maybe escape to somewhere warm and sunny. The Danes love to enjoy quick weekend trips and put an emphasis on enjoying vacation time as well. Get in the R&R and make some new memories this winter.
13. Enjoy A Staycation
If you can’t get away for the weekend or longer, plan a staycation! Turn your home into a spa for the weekend, or do something fun in your city that you’ve been meaning to do. In my opinion, staycations can be just as enjoyable as getting away.
14. Host A Game Night
Game nights are always cozy and fun. Invite some friends over and enjoy some fun games like Scrabble, Clue, or Monopoly. Check out our list of the best board games for families and adults. We’re sure you’ll find something new and exciting on our epic list of board games.
15. Roast Marshmallows In The Fireplace
Another cozy winter activity is roasting marshmallows in the fireplace. Gather some friends and family around the fire and enjoy a delicious s’more. Don’t have a fireplace or firepit? No worries. Use this adorable s’mores maker and gather the family around for a sweet time.
16. Take A Relaxing Bath
Baths are the perfect way to relax and unwind. Add some soothing aromatherapy or a bath bomb to make it extra special. Top it all off with some candlelight and some soft music to soothe your soul.
17. Cozy Up Your Home
One of the best ways to live hygge is to cozy up your home. Add some throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to make it feel warm and inviting. You’ll be surprised at how much this can change the atmosphere of your home.
18. Do Some Random Acts of Kindness
One of the best ways to spread the hygge love and help others feel cozy and appreciated is to do something kind for them. Pay for the person’s coffee behind you in line, shovel your neighbor’s driveway, or make a batch of cookies and deliver them to your friends.
19. Host A Potluck
Potlucks are a great way to get together with friends and try new dishes. Have everyone bring their favorite comfort food to share. You could host a chili cookoff or a soup cookoff, or invite the family over for some fondue. Whatever dishes you choose to pass, it will be a memorable time they’ll truly appreciate.
20. Bake Something Delicious
Baked goods always make people feel warm and toasty inside and extra cozy. Make some cookies, bread, or pie and enjoy the delicious smell wafting through your home. You’ll be tempted to eat it all yourself!
21. Brew Some Tea
Tea is the perfect drink for cozy moments. Brew a pot of your favorite tea and relax with a good book or some friends.
22. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and enjoying the simple things in life. Take some time each day to practice mindfulness, and you’ll start to notice the little things that make life so special. My favorite meditation app is Calm.
23. Start A New Hobby
Hobbies are a great way to relax and de-stress. If you’ve been wanting to try a new hobby, now is the time! Maybe try painting, knitting, or woodworking.
24. Take A Nap
Snuggling up in bed with a good book and some cozy blankets is the perfect way to relax. I guess there’s a reason why bears hibernate in winter and I think they’re onto something. Wintertime is the best time to enjoy some naps by the fire or in your cozy bed.
25. Work On A Puzzle
Puzzles are a fun way to pass the time and get in the hygge mood. Choose a puzzle with a winter theme, or just find one that looks fun and challenging. These magic puzzles offer a fun surprise at the end to keep the fun going. I love using a puzzle table to keep my pieces organized and my puzzle from falling apart, and it slides nicely under the sofa for safe keeping.
26. Go For A Winter Walk
Bundle up and go for a walk in the park or woods. The fresh air and natural beauty of winter is breathtaking. We love nature walks in the winter time especially when there’s a light snow falling. There’s something simply magical about the peace of winter.
27. Enjoy Stovetop Popcorn & Movies
Another great way to enjoy some hygge time is by watching movies and eating popcorn. Make a big batch of stovetop popcorn and get cozy on the couch. Don’t forget the blankets!
28. Unplug From Social Media
Social media can be a great way to connect with friends, but it can also be a source of stress. Take a break from social media and enjoy some quality time offline that’ll allow you to be more present with your family.
29. Have A Bonfire
If you have access to a fire pit, enjoy a bonfire! This is the perfect activity for chilly winter nights. Gather some friends and family around the fire, roast some marshmallows, and tell stories.
30. Make Hot Cocoa
There’s nothing more cozy than a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter day. Make a big batch and enjoy with your friends or family. Add whipped cream and mini marshmallows for an extra special treat. This Velvetiser hot chocolate pot from Hotel Chocolat makes the most luxuriously rich hot cocoa for an extra special treat your family will love every winter to come.
31. Create A Cozy Reading Nook
One of the best ways to relax is by reading a good book. Create a cozy reading nook in your home with pillows, blankets, and a good book. You’ll be able to enjoy some quiet time and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
32. Make Time For Yourself
It’s important to make time for yourself. Take some time each day to do something that you enjoy, such as taking a walk, reading, or taking a bath. This is a great way to relax and de-stress and get into that hygge living spirit.
33. Go On A Winter Adventure
If you’re looking for an adventure, why not go on a winter hike or ski trip? There are so many fun things to do in the snow! Or stay indoors and go to a concert or Broadway show. Visit a place you love or a place you’ve never been and fill those memory books with lots of photos.
34. Organize Photos Into Albums
One of the best ways to remember your favorite hygge moments is to organize your photos into albums. This is a great way to relax and reflect on all the good times you’ve had. We love to make a family yearbook each year to remember all the good times and reflect on how far we’ve come.
35. Create A Seasonal Bucket List
One of the best ways to enjoy winter is to create a seasonal bucket list. Make a list of all the things you want to do this winter, and then start crossing them off! This is a great way to get excited for all the fun things coming up in the winter months.
37. Live in the Moment
Finally, one of the best pieces of advice for living a hygge life is to live in the moment. Enjoy the simple things and don’t take life for granted. Cherish your time with family and friends, and savor every cozy moment.
FAQ's About Living Hygge
Q: How Do You Hygge In The Winter?
A: There are lots of ways to enjoy a cozy winter with the hygge lifestyle. Some of our favorites include wearing comfortable clothes, lighting candles, and enjoying some mindfulness each day.
Q: How Do You Make A Living Room Hygge?
A: One of the best ways to make your living room more cozy is to add some soft pillows, rugs, and blankets. You can also set out some scented candles or start a fire in the fireplace.
Q: What Is A Hygge Night?
A: A hygge night is all about relaxing and enjoying time with friends and family. Some of our favorite activities include playing games, watching movies, and eating popcorn. You can also light some candles and cozy up on the couch.
Q: How Can I Live A Hygge Lifestyle?
A: There are lots of ways to incorporate hygge into your life. Some of our favorite tips include adding soft pillows and blankets to your home, doing some random acts of kindness, and practicing mindfulness. You can also try a new hobby or unplug from social media for a while.
Q: What Is The Definition Of Hygge?
A: The definition of hygge is hard to pin down, but it’s generally described as a feeling of coziness and comfort. It’s about enjoying the simple things in life and savoring the moment.
Q: What Are Some Hygge Activities?
A: There are lots of different activities that you can do to enjoy a cozy hygge lifestyle. Some of our favorites include reading, playing games, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family. You can also try some new hobbies or unplug from social media for a while.
Q: Can I Hygge All Year Long?
A: Yes, you can definitely enjoy the hygge lifestyle all year long. However, some of our favorite activities are best enjoyed during the winter months. You can cozy up by the fire, drink hot chocolate, and listen to Christmas music!
Q: What Is Hygge Fashion?
A: Hygge fashion is all about comfort and coziness. You’ll want to choose clothes that make you feel good and that you can move around in easily. Some of our favorite pieces include sweaters, leggings, and cozy socks. You can also accessorize with scarves and hats.
Q: What Is Danish Hygge?
A: Danish hygge is a lifestyle that’s all about enjoying the simple things in life. It’s about taking time for yourself, being mindful, and spending time with friends and family.
Q: Is Denmark Dark In The Winter?
A: Yes, Denmark can be quite dark in the winter. However, this is one of the things that makes it so cozy! That’s why the Danes enjoy simple things like lighting candles, drinking hot chocolate, and enjoying time with friends and family.
Q: How Can I Survive Winter?
A: One of the best ways to survive winter is to practice hygge. This is all about enjoying the simple things in life and taking time for yourself. You can also try to get outside as much as possible, drink lots of fluids, and stay warm!
Q: What Are Some Examples of Hygge Gifts?
A: Some of our favorite examples of hygge gifts include candles, cozy socks, and warm blankets. You can also gift someone a relaxing massage or a night out at their favorite restaurant.
These are just a few of the best ways to live hygge in winter. Hygge is all about enjoying the simple things in life, so take some time to savor your favorite things this winter. And don’t forget to share the hygge love with your friends and family! What are your favorite tips and tricks for cozy living?
7 Comments
Ohh. I love this post. I think I’m going to try a few of these!!
Glad you enjoyed it, Amanda! ?
In Denmark, the people are referred to as Danes or Danish. The Dutch live in the Netherlands and Germany. My grandfather came to this country from Denmark by ship when he was 6 years old. Probably why this concept intrigues me so much. Great article otherwise!
Thank you so much for correcting me. I will fix this immediately. I’m glad you enjoyed the article anyway. ?
Stephanie- What a lovely post! What beautiful pictures you have, and great ideas. I, too, discovered hygge last winter, and fell in love with the idea. As an ICU nurse going through burnout, it was balm to my stressed soul. I ended up leaving my job to heal from my burnout, and putting hygge concepts into action helped a lot with that- few things recharge my soul like snuggling in a cozy blanket by the fire, cocoa in one hand, and a good book in the other. In fact, I love hygge so much that I founded a little business a few months ago called Cozy Read (www.cozyread.com), and everything I have in my little shop is hygge approved. I just created two boxes this week that are specifically hygge-centric. Seeing how much you love hygge too, I thought you might be interested in checking them out. And, as a fellow nurse, I know you know a handful of people who could use a sweet box of hygge in their life too- from coworkers to patients. I’m so glad you have shared your heart and your wisdom here- thank you! Sending my love and wishes for a happy hygge winter to you.
Oh wow, Janis! I just looked into your site! I absolutely love your hygge boxes. Thank you so much for reaching out to me. I certainly know as nurses how important it is for us to practice self-care so that we can be our best for our patients and our families. Thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to getting in contact with you.
Excited to get to know you too!