I first heard the term a few years ago when the colder months rolled around. It was on social media, in published articles and it even showed up in my daily conversations. I’m talking about the concept of hygge — something that took the US by storm in a few short weeks.
The concept of hygge was super popular at the time but it was entirely foreign to me. So, my curiosity took over and I turned to the internet to find out more.
What is Hygge?
As it turns out, hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a Danish term that encompasses feelings of contentment, well-being and coziness.
There isn’t a single word to describe it in the English language, but it’s so popular in Denmark that it’s actually considered a defining feature of the cultural identity! As Country Living describes it, what freedom is to Americans, hygge is to Danes.
The term hygge originally showed up in the early 1800’s but just became popular in America in 2017. In fact, it landed on Oxford Dictionary’s short list for “word of the year” in 2016, and on Pinterest’s list of “hottest decor trends” in 2017.
While browsing, I realized that hygge is a mix of feelings, emotions, material objects and a way of life. In terms of feelings and emotions, it’s about finding enjoyment in the simple things in life. I like to focus on the warmth of my coffee cup or the rustling of the leaves outside!
It’s also about allowing yourself some freedom to not be perfect — letting your emotions take you where you need to go in the moment (think mindfulness).
How to Achieve Hygge at Home
It isn’t too hard to find material objects that will help you achieve hygge at home. A quick search on Pinterest or Google will show you images of fireplaces, throw blankets and rain-kissed windows.
I like to sit on my living room couch with my Barefoot Dreams blanket. It’s honestly like being wrapped in a big hug and I could sit in it for hours on end. I’ve also had it for 15 years and it’s still the first blanket I reach for on a crisp fall morning!
The Barefoot Dreams one is a little pricy so if you want a budget-friendly option, I like this Cuddl Duds one from Kohl’s. I love that it has cozy sherpa goodness on “my side” and a great design on the other that doubles as decor!
If I’m really trying to get in the hygge mood I also like to light a candle. This time of year, I always opt for those warm scents like pumpkin, vanilla or cinnamon.
I like this ScentWorx Pumpkin Spice one from Kohl’s and I’m actually friends with the creator! He makes the absolute best scents and creates magical combinations that make burning a candle a special experience.
Even though these purchases are inspired by the word hygge, it’s important to remember that the concept is a way of life.
Take some time to step away from your phone and try to be aware of your surroundings. Maybe even turn on some music and bake some tasty treats to relax! (my favorites for a fall evening are my Apple Brownies and my Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies).
If you’d like to see some more ways to give your home and lifestyle a little hygge twist, you can find some of my favorite products below.
My Favorite Cozy and Comforting Picks
Remember, hygge is meant to be what you make of it! In fact, one of the defining factors of the lifestyle is the lack of strict rules. Here are a few ways I’m working it into my time at home!
Whether you use it as decor or use it to cuddle on the couch, this Cable-Knit Cotton Throw Pillow will keep you relaxed all autumn long.
I adore this Knitted Pouf from Wayfair. It can add a cozy-chic addition to you living room and it can even serve as an extra seat when you have company over for a casual fall book club!
If you haven’t already heard, I love candles. I found this Aurelie Autumn Candle from Anthropologie and can’t get enough of the elegant glass jar!
While the candle above doesn’t need any decorative upgrades, these Ceramic Candle Hurricanes will add a warm touch to your household during the colder months.
My feet are always cold no matter what. So instead of wearing socks around the house and running the risk of stepping in some spilled kitchen ingredients, I found these Knit Fizzy Clog Slippers to wear instead. They also come in a few colors to fit your fall style!
My Take
If this is your first time hearing about hygge I recommend taking a closer look at how you can incorporate it in your own life. With all the craziness of these days, I find that it’s more and more important to focus on your well-being and staying in the moment. There’s a reason Denmark is always on the list of the world’s happiest countries!
Until then, I’d love to hear how you try to find time in your routine to step away and focus on yourself.
From my home to yours,
Jill
See more of my decor picks here:
– Fifty Fabulous Finds for Fall
– Blue and White Decor Touches Refresh My Dining Room
– Darling Doormats and Front Door Touches To Welcome You Home
