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I’m a beach girl at heart, which means that Illinois winters are excruciatingly painful for me. I stumbled upon the hygge lifestyle on Pinterest and was instantly intrigued.
First of all, let’s address your first question.
How Do You Pronounce Hygge?
Hygge is a Danish word, pronounced hyoo-gah (or is it hoo-gah)? Watch this funny video where we kind-of figure out how to correctly pronounce hygge.
What is a Hygge Lifestyle?
Hygge is a way of living…it’s the art of living cozy. No, it’s not lying around surrounded with oversized pillows, blankets, and cats.
As far as I know, there aren’t a lot of hygge stores where you can go and find all things hygge.
People who live the hygge lifestyle have perfected relaxation, coziness, and savoring every moment. They put down their phones and spend time with the ones they love.
Why are Danish People So Happy?
Denmark is known as being one of the happiest countries in the world. Why do you think that is?
According to the World Happiness Report, happiness is closely linked to social equality and community spirit – and Denmark crushes it in both areas.
It’s said that “In Denmark, few have too much, and even fewer have too little.”
7 Ways to Adopt the Hygge Lifestyle…Without Looking Like a Crazy Cat Lady
1. Surround Yourself With Lit Candles
Candles provide a sense of warmth and coziness that can be compared to a warm hug. Everyone has candles (even if you have to dig out the hurricane candles in storage). Turn out the lights and burn candles. I love wood wick candles because they calmly flicker when lit. Cozy Cabin is a scent I could go for when the temperature is below freezing!
2. Create a Cozy Hygge Bedroom
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to create a relaxing hygge-friendly bed. Start by updating your bedding to a light, bright, and airy comforter set. If you don’t have the funds for an entire set, these flannel sheets would be a dream come true!
3. Shovel a Neighbor’s Driveway
Last fall, my neighbor gathered so many leaves from his side yard and had them in piles. I hooked up my lawn sweeper and moved them to my burn pile.
This took a good 5-6 passes over the leaves to get them all and emptying by hand into the burn pile. He never thanked me, and that’s okay. He never asked me to help.
It just felt good doing something for someone else. If you see your neighbor outside battling their driveway, grab your shovel and offer to help! This kindness will warm your heart and the hearts of others.
4. Watch More Hallmark
I’m just gonna come out and say it. There is no shame in loving Hallmark movies! There’s something about cozying up on the couch to watch a feel-good movie that makes me happier!
During the holidays, I’m all about the Christmas movies. But come January, I’m ready to watch more beachy movies like Pearl in Paradise and Love at Sea with the adorable Carlos and Alexa Penavega.
5. Get your Vitamin D with Light Therapy
6. Hygge isn’t Hygge Without a Chunky Blanket
If you don’t have a chunky blanket, stop right now and save this one to your favorites for later.
There’s something about the coziness of a chunky, knitted blanket that instantly makes everything better.
If I had to choose between throw pillows or a cozy, chunky blanket, I’d go for the warmth every time. Throw pillows just get in the way and end up on the floor!
7. Girl, Read your Bible
I should have listed this one first as it’s the most important part of my day. I know there are some non-believers reading this, but I have to share that I find comfort in God’s word.
Having the right kind of Bible makes a big difference in how you consume it. There are so many different translations, but I’ve found that the Christian Standard Version is so much easier to understand that the King James Version.
For so many years, I had the KJV and I just couldn’t digest it. Then, I found the She Reads Truth Bible, and I found the scripture to be broken up into sections, making it easier to read.
I’ve embraced Bible journaling and use mildliners to highlight my favorite scriptures. Trust me, sister. There is comfort in God’s word. You just have to open it and take time to devote to reading a little bit every day.
KonMari or Hygge?
I’m a huge fan of the life-changing magic of tidying up, also known as KonMari. We are in a constant state of decluttering and getting rid of anything that doesn’t spark joy.
When it comes to deciding which is better: KonMari or Hygge, I don’t think one is really better than the other. Both are lifestyle choices, and both improve quality of life.
Take the best of both practices and improve your lifestyle one day at a time.
Check out my favorite article on KonMari here.
You can also learn how to clean up your inbox the KonMari way by performing a digital detox.
Life is a collection of memories and experiences. There are ups and downs. I am so grateful for God’s grace and am on the journey to a renewed spirit, free of perfectionism. Perfection Hangover offers the sober truth – no filter.
