How to hygge: 14 ways to be happier in the New Year

The holidays are such a busy time of year. Between shopping for the perfect gifts, attending office parties, baking cookies, and gathering with friends and family, it’s often hard to find a moment to relax.  Have no fear, we are here to help you unwind from the stress and chaos of the holidays.  That’s why we’ve compiled a list of fourteen different ways of how to create hygge this winter and get the New Year started off right.

While you might be unfamiliar with the Danish word hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”), it is something you have probably experienced at least once or twice before.  It’s the feeling you get while being wrapped up in a comfy blanket next to the fireplace with a mug of hot chocolate or relaxing in the bath with candles and a good book. Although there is no direct translation for the word, hygge is often described as a feeling of well-being, coziness, or a moment of satisfaction and content.  The people of Denmark are considered to be the happiest in the world, and a lot of this can be attributed to the fact that they embrace hygge as a way of life. And you can too, simply follow these easy tips for hygge living.

14 tips on how to create hygge

Enjoy the simple pleasures in life

To embrace the Danish concept of hygge, you must learn to find joy in everyday life. It can be as simple as taking a 15-minute break during your day to enjoy a cup of coffee or chat with a friend. 

Slow Down

We know, sometimes it’s easier said than done, but the first step to hygge is making a conscious effort to slow down from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Pause to take a couple deep breathes and enjoy a minute for yourself before you head into work or to your next engagement. Instead of racing through lunch at your desk, take a break to savor your meal.

Drink hot chocolate

Add instant hygge to any moment with a mug of organic hot chocolate — rich, full-bodied and deeply satisfying.  Enjoy alone as you get lost in a good book, or make enough to share with friends as you catch up. Regardless of the setting, one sip is all you need to soothe your soul. 

Unplug from technology

Step away from the tablet, turn off the television, and put down the phone. Whether we like to admit it or not, technology is embedded in our everyday lives. However hard it might be, taking even 30 minutes to unplug can be quite refreshing.

Build a fire

The cozier something is the more hygge it is. During the long, cold Vermont winter there is nothing better than snuggling up by a warm fireplace on a cold winter’s day.  So after a long day on the slopes, build a fire, have everyone gather around, and relax as you let it warm you through and through.

Have a family meal

Hygge isn’t about being alone and secluded from others, it is about relishing in the moment. So, take the time to make a good home-cooked meal and spend the evening leisurely enjoying both the food and the company.

Light some candles

To create the perfect hygge vibe you need to first dim the lights. Light a few candles and enjoy the warm flickering glow they create. Can’t light candles? Turn off the overhead lights and use a small table light or some twinkle lights to help set the mood.

Reduce the clutter

Clutter can be overwhelming and stressful. Take the time to declutter your space, keeping only the essentials. Not only will it be a refreshing activity, but it will also allow you to thoroughly enjoy what you have.

Make your space cozy

Once you’ve cleaned out your space, make it hyggelig by adding some soft texture – a plush chair, a super soft throw, or a couple of fluffy pillows.

Bring the outdoors in

Complete your hygge space by including elements of nature. Incorporate wood furniture, decorations made of natural materials, or simply add a few house plants. These little touches can help you to feel closer to nature.

Create an at-home spa

Draw a nice warm bath and take some time to relax and unwind from your day. Get an extra-plush robe, light a few candles and grab a glass of wine to create the ultimate at-home spa.

Treat yourself

Go ahead and treat yourself to a square or two of chocolate. Hygge is about appreciating the little pleasures and allowing yourself to indulge occasionally. Life is all about balance and everything in moderation.

Do good

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as the feeling you get from helping others. Volunteer at the local humane society walking or playing with rescue animals, donate food to the food shelf, spend some time cleaning up the nearby park or bike path or get involved at the local youth center.

Be present

Hygge is all about finding joy in life. Instead of stressing out about what you need to do, learn to focus on what’s happening right in front of you. Be present and enjoy it!

Hygge is the overwhelming feeling of satisfaction and contentment, like savoring an irresistibly delicious Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel. It’s a moment to savor. After a long, often stressful holiday, we all look forward to a reset with the New Year. So, take time to add some hygge to your life. While there are no hard and fast rules, we hope you enjoy some of our suggestions on how to hygge.

How do you embrace hygge? Share it with us on Facebook or Instagram @LCChocolates and include the hashtags #hyggelcc #makeitextraordinary.