Gettin’ HYGGE with it

HYGGE is actually pronounced “hyoo·guh” and with the holidays behind us and winter in full swing I am all about getting hygge with it.  The term refers to a Danish and Norwegian practice that embraces a cozy and contented mood, comfort and cozy.  Yes I said cozy twice.  

What I love most about winter in Maine is slowing down after the hectic holidays and retreating inward and inside, embracing the simpler things that bring us joy and coziness.

Here are 10 ideas to get your hygge on…

1. Socks.  Get yourself at least one pair of seriously cozy and thick socks.  The socks that you put on and instantly feel warmth and coziness.
2. Slippers. I own a pair made in Canada (they know all about winter) that is lined with cozy fleece and has an outdoor winter friendly sole.  I can walk outside to the mailbox or bird feeder in my slippers and come back in and not take them off.  Hygge life in cozy slippers is good. 
3. A blankie. Get yourself a throw or blanket that wraps you in warmth and coziness.  Mine resides on the couch so it's easy to reach for to wrap around my shoulders, throw on my lap or cover my feet.
4. Flannel sheets:)  Aww yes.  Crawling into cozy flannel sheets is a winter wonderland!  If flannel sheets are too much for you, keep your regular sheets and try a flannel pillowcase.  Trust me on this cozy combo!
5. Candles. Battery operated candles on timers are a staple in our house.  I set the timers to come on when we come home from work (it’s dark by 4 pm) and shut off around bedtime.  I do love “real” candles that burn well, burn clean and are mildly scented or not.  Hygge = candlelight.
6. Boil up your hygge!  Toss some cinnamon sticks and or/cloves into a pot and simmer on low.  The smell will be amazing and adding some humidity to the air in the winter months can be a good thing for you (and your plants!)
7. Fireplace.  For many Mainers winter means coziness around a fireplace or woodstove. We don’t have either and I miss it sometimes.  So, when I need a "fix", a night at a cozy Maine inn with a beverage in front of their fireplace does the trick (and I don’t have to stack wood or clean it up!). Win.
8. Cook up your hygge!   Cozy and warm food is a winter must!  We love cooking low and slow.  Stews, roasts, soups all hit the hygge spot!   Our crock pot and stock pots get a lot of exercise during the winter months!
9. Hot chocolate!  I love getting outside in the winter.  Skiing, running, walking or snow shoveling.  The fresh air is invigorating even when my nostrils freeze up.  A cup of hot chocolate is just the ticket to warm me up.  Add a marshmallow and my inner child is hygge happy.
10. A book, puzzle, binge watch.  We start a puzzle during the holidays and keep one going through the winter.  It’s a hygge thing.  The long winter nights are also the perfect time to curl up with a good book or indulge in your favorite show or discover a new one.  

However you “hygge” enjoy the chance to slow down, regroup and rest your body and soul.  Mother nature is preparing our gardens and you to reawaken in the Spring.