Thrive
Getting Hygge with it – our top 10 tips
Have you heard of Hygge? It’s actually pronounced ‘Hoo-ga’ rather than ‘Higgy’ and it’s a Scandinavian concept that captures the ideas of living well, togetherness and cosiness. It’s a philosophy that focuses on simplicity, unwinding and slowing down the pace of life. Most importantly, it’s about enjoying the simple pleasures in life.
- Light it up. Use fairy lights, scented candles, tea lights and table lamps in the evenings – turn off the main lights and go for some cosy mood lighting instead.
- Bring the outdoors in. Buy some fresh flowers or plants, or collect some natural materials to display in your home. Research shows that flowers have a positive effect on our happiness.
- Add texture. Add some Hygge elements to your living place to make it feel snug. A good tip before you do this is to declutter and then add different textures, such as blankets and rugs, candles and books to your space.
- Tell a story. Curate your home with some choice objects and ornaments that mean something to you. Tell the story of your life and relive your memories with furniture, gifts, antiques, travel souvenirs, accents and pictures that reflect you and your life.
- Put the kettle on. Whether it’s a cup of tea, cocoa, lemon and ginger, or soup – putting your hands around a hot mug is soothing, warming and very cosy.
- Cook from scratch. Cook yourself a delicious and nutritious meal. A pie or soup are both great winter warmers when it’s cold and rainy outside. Make an occasion of it by setting the table with serviettes, candles and flowers.
- Curl up with a cat. Have a movie night or put your nose in a book – whether it’s a new film or an old favourite, snuggle down on the sofa and relax for an afternoon. Enjoy being in the warm. Preferably with a cat curled up on your lap.
- Get toasty. Layer up with blankets, slippers and chunky jumpers – the softer, fleecier and fluffier the better. Wearing a super soft jumper or fluffy socks is a good way to self soothe.
- Watch the sky change. Don a bobble hat, earmuffs, scarf and gloves – make yourself nice and toasty – and go for a walk on a bright winter’s day. Head to a park and watch the changing patterns in the sky and surrounding nature while you sip a homemade hot chocolate.
- Treat yourself. What lifts your mood and feels like an indulgence and a treat? For example, it could be switching your phone off and having a hot bubble bath. Slow down and take the time to enjoy the moment.
If you’re worried about your mental health, our direct access service aims to provide you with the advice, support and treatment you need as quickly as possible. You’ll be able to get mental health advice and support usually without the need for a GP referral. Learn more today.
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