Is the philosophy of Hygge replacing the trendy Feng Shui we are all just now finally mastering? Not likely. What is clear, Hygge is here, and it’s awesome! So what is it?

Hygge (pronounced hoo-guh) is a Danish term that refers a feeling or mood that comes from taking pleasure in making ordinary, every day moments and events meaningful…“Stop and smell the roses” if you will.

Did you know? The Danish culture is known to be among one of the happiest ethnic groups in the world. The happiest in the world! Even though some parts of Denmark can experience up to 17 hours of darkness per day in the winter months… Oh my, I hope they double up on Vitamin D!

Still, what is it? Is a candle Hygge? Not quite. However the warm glow and calm ambiance that the candle provides is. That is it right there. The feeling you get when you allow yourself to slow down and enjoy all of the beautiful offerings our everyday environments provide.

Hygge is a wonderful practice to adopt, especially in the Winter months when we all need an extra boost of happiness. To better assist in understanding this concept and fulfilling my hopes of creating a little (ok, a lot) more happiness in your every day life I have compiled a small list of ideas we all can start rehearsing today and training ourselves to form habits of delight that flow with this fabulous philosophy. Spring is coming, but until then…

1. Host a Pot Luck — No pressure. You do not have to prepare an entire meal. You can invite whom ever you please. The purpose would be to surround yourself with comfortable companions who make you feel good about yourself. After dinner, don’t rush to clean up. Relax. Enjoy. It is a pot luck, no one is expecting anything. Allow yourself to engage in the conversation & laughter. Their is always tomorrow, you can tidy up then. The goal is to appreciate the moment. 
2. Scents — The power of scent is known to be connected to our memory. To this day, I cannot unwrap a fresh bar of dove soap and not instantly hold an image of my Grandma Farrell bathing me as a child. In line with this topic could be the act of cleaning the air. Today’s most popular devise for this purpose are diffusers, known to purify the air while allowing you to choose your desired essential oil. The scent and ambiance these diffusers provide is a perfect example of Hygge. My favourite diffusers and essential oils can be found at www.saje.com Check them out and let me know what you think. 
3. Lighting — Those who know me well know that I am all about the lighting. I am an advocate for having dimming options in every room. This way you control the light. While we may like an abundance of bright, direct light throughout the day for completing tasks, when night falls, a softer ambiance is appreciated for the Hygge lovers. Having your electrician instal a dimmer option on the main switches in your home, allows you to dictate the amount of light received and thus creating the mood you are going for… Make it a calm one.
4. In the Bedroom — Don’t ignore your sensory system. Surrounding yourself in soft, comforting fabrics while you dream of sugar plumbs is nothing to feel guilty about.This winter reward yourself with cozy new pyjamas and bedding. Make bedtime an event. Each night you will look forward to hitting the hay, and the feeling this treat provides will set you in high alert Hygge. Can you think of a better way to end your day than utter solace?
5. One Word. Netflix — Spending a cold winter’s day cuddled on the sofa with your warm woolies, cozy blanket and a cup of hot tea while binge watching your favourite Netflix series. Could life be any better? Give yourself permission to pause. Allow rest and reap the benefits a day of Hygge will provide. Your restored self will thank you with strengthened energy allowing more productivity. 

My goal here is to illustrate what this wonderful philosophy is and how we all can gain from creating a little more Hygge on in our everyday lives. “Time flies”, “life is short”. This practise does not replace your daily responsibilities and commitments, it simply suggests taking small steps and allowing yourself to see the good in all of these moments. Fresh flowers, reading, bubble baths and my husband, that’s my Hyggee. What is yours?