Welcome to “Creating My Hygge Life,” a cozy corner where we discover the magic of feeling snug, calm, and happy, especially after tough times like breast cancer. Hygge (say “hoo-gah”) is a Danish idea all about making life cozy and sweet. It’s about enjoying the little things, feeling comfy, and being together with loved ones. When I faced breast cancer, I craved a safe place away from doctor visits and treatments—a place where I could relax and be myself. That’s when I found hygge. It’s like a warm hug, making me feel good inside and out. So, I want to share this warmth with you. I want to share some practical tips on how you can hygge your life and create a haven of warmth and comfort. Together, let’s explore how to bring hygge into our lives, finding peace, healing, and happiness in simple moments.
Avoid Multitasking
In our fast-paced world, multitasking often feels necessary. However, juggling multiple tasks can increase stress and decrease productivity.If you find yourself scrolling facebook on your phone, while watching a movie, put the phone away. Hygge encourages us to focus on one thing at a time, savoring each moment. Try setting aside specific times for different activities, allowing yourself to be fully present in whatever you are doing.
Remove Stressors
Identify and eliminate stressors in your life and home. This might sound like an impossible challenge, but it is amazing how clutter and little unfinished tasks can add stress to your day. This might mean decluttering your space, setting boundaries with people who drain your energy, or simplifying your schedule. By removing unnecessary stress, you create room for calm and relaxation, essential elements of hygge.
Eat Well
Nourishing your body with wholesome, delicious food is a key aspect of hygge. Prepare meals that bring you joy, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Creating a beautiful tablescape can enhance the dining experience, making every meal feel special. Think about adding candles, flowers, and your favorite dishes to elevate the ambiance. Sharing meals with friends and loved ones can also deepen the hygge experience. Engage in meaningful conversations, laugh together, and savor the connection. These moments of togetherness can transform a simple meal into a cherished memory.
Ride Your Bike or Take a Walk
Physical activity is essential for both physical and mental health. Riding your bike not only keeps you fit but also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Find a scenic route and let the rhythm of pedaling and the fresh air invigorate you. Similarly, taking a walk can be a perfect way to practice hygge. Walking provides a slower pace to appreciate your surroundings, clear your mind, and feel more grounded. Choose paths through parks, along the beach, or even just around your neighborhood to soak in the simple pleasures of being outdoors.
Keep the Hot Drinks Coming
There’s something incredibly comforting about a hot drink. Whether it’s a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, take the time to savor it. Make it a ritual, perhaps in the morning to start your day or in the evening as a way to unwind. The warmth and routine can provide a soothing sense of comfort. Enhance this moment by practicing mindfulness, journaling your thoughts, or reading a favorite book while enjoying your beverage. Cozying up by the fire adds an extra layer of warmth and tranquility, making the experience even more delightful.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Hygge is all about comfort, and this extends to what you wear. Choose clothes that make you feel relaxed and at ease. Soft fabrics, cozy sweaters, and warm socks can make a significant difference in your comfort level throughout the day.
Bring in the Books
Books are a wonderful way to escape, learn, and relax. Create a reading list of books that interest and inspire you. Dedicate time each day to read, whether it’s for a few minutes before bed or an afternoon spent engrossed in a novel. Books can transport you to different worlds and provide a comforting escape from daily stresses.
Create a Cozy Nook
Having a dedicated space to relax is essential for enhancing your hygge experience. Choose a corner of your home that speaks to you—a sunlit spot by the window or a snug alcove in your bedroom. Adorn it with soft blankets, cushions, and warm lighting to create a tactile and inviting atmosphere. Personalize your nook with items that bring you joy, such as favorite books or meaningful trinkets. Make it a ritual to retreat to this space regularly for quiet reflection and relaxation, allowing yourself to fully embrace the comfort and tranquility it offers.
Head to the Tub
Indulging in a warm bath is a quintessential hygge ritual that goes beyond mere relaxation—it’s a luxurious embrace of self-care and mindfulness. As you draw your bath, consider adding fragrant bath salts, rich essential oils, or a frothy layer of bubbles to elevate the experience. Light candles around the tub and play soft, soothing music to create a serene ambiance that envelops you in tranquility. Allow yourself to sink into the warm water, letting its comforting embrace melt away the tensions of the day. As the stress dissipates, you may find yourself slipping into a state of profound relaxation, where both body and mind find solace. Take this time to disconnect from the outside world, to breathe deeply, and to reconnect with yourself. In the gentle embrace of the bath, you may discover a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, emerging refreshed and rejuvenated from this sacred moment of self-nurturing.
Embracing hygge is about finding joy and comfort in the simple things. As a breast cancer survivor, I’ve found that these small acts of self-care have a profound impact on my overall well-being. By incorporating these hygge principles into your life, you too can create a sanctuary of peace and happiness. Here’s to a life filled with warmth, comfort, and joy.
With love and hygge,
