With at least two more chilly months ahead of us, it’s easy to get stuck on everything that makes winter such a dreary season: the grey skies, for instance, or that awful moment when you have to get out of bed. But what if you turned your home into a cosy haven that made the most of winter, instead? This is precisely what the Danish do: they call this habit “hygge” (pronounced hoo-ga), and it’s all about setting up cosy, warm spaces. Here’s how to do it.
- Board games and books. Hygge is all about time together and away from screens – so although a movie night is always a hit (popcorn and hot chocolate are a must, obviously), move away from Netflix and find other ways to spend time with your family. Game night, anyone?
- Blankets, fires, and hot water bottles. Being comfortable is the real essence of hygge. We don’t always know if we’ll be able to switch on the heaters, thanks to load-shedding, but there are other ways to make your space warm and comfy. Break out the puffy throws and make some cuddly hot water bottles.
- Indulge! Soups, stews, curry, cakes, puddings – it’s time to treat yourself to the slightly heavier fare that you don’t particularly feel like eating during summer’s heat.
