Use What You Already Have to Create a Cozy Space
I was recently introduced to the word “hygge” by my daughter-in-law. “You’ve never heard of it?” she said, then she showed me the hygge Pinterest board she’ d created. I’ll admit, I was intrigued, I bought a book on the subject and did some research.
What is Hygge?
There’s a lot packed into this little word (pronounced HOO-GA), but simply put, it is a Danish word that describes a mood of coziness and togetherness that contribues to feelings of contentment and wellbeing. It is regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture.
It’s a philosophy that, according to the author Meik Wiking, embraces rustic over new, simple over posh, board games over computer games, potluck dinner with friends over dining at a fancy restaurant. Think candlelight, warm beverages, cozy sweaters and socks, and families gathering around a fire.
But I live in Tucson
All of this warm and cozy stuff sounds good for the Danish who must endure cold, dark winters, but I live in Tucson, AZ. How would it work for me? Well, first of all, believe it or not, Tucson has a winter monsoon season. Here is what I woke up to today.
40 degees, raining here, but snowing on the mountains. Perfect motivation for me to channel my inner hoo-ga. I’m going to make a Hygge Corner.
Use What You Have
I’ll admit that I’m tempted to run out to Ikea or Target and fill my cart with fuzzy throws, candles, and sweaters, but that would add clutter which would not be very hygge-ly of me. To get hygge bonus points, the items you surround youself with should have a personal connection. (Plus when the temp gets to 110 this summer what would I do with Ugg boots and sweaters?) So for my hygge expirment, I’m determined to use what I have.
I already had a cozy chair in front of window in my bedroom. I tossed on a soft, handknit throw I’d made several years ago. Next I moved a small wooden table beside the chair. The space is limited so I was selective with my choices. A candle holder I bought in my home state of Indiana, my favorite planter my granddaughter and daugher-in-law helped me make, a small speaker for my favorite music, tea in the china cup my mom brought back from England years ago, my journal and current read.
Whoo hoo….hoo-ga!
I love it! Can’t wait to snuggle in with a good book and finish that cup of tea! As a sidenote, I was motivated to help my husband make a beef stew for dinner tonight. The all-day simmering smell was very hygge… hoo-ga-ly? hygglee? Oh well…you get the idea!
Threads of Thought
Hygge was a new term for me. As a former K teacher who spent most of my days teaching phonics, I struggle to pronounce it. Have you heard of hygge before?
How do you hygge (hoo-ga)?
Hygge up with a good book! http://amazon.com/author/debravandeventer
Thank you for a new word which has much meaning.I am enchanted with its meaning. Reminds me of building a blanket fort to hide away and rest in. Your hygge is lovely and well-appointed.
I love the blanket fort idea!
Deb, this post is pure Deb. I felt cozy as I read it. Maybe in part because it is a few minutes before 4 a m, I can hear the rain hitting the roof, I’m having a cup of good coffee, and rubbing my little dogs tummy. Thanks for the posting, a nice was to start my day.
You are having a very hygge morning indeed!
I’m sitting in my hygee with hot tea right now as I read your blog. Didn’t know my spot on the couch with pillows and a book, under the skylight, listening to the rain was called a hygee. Thanks for teaching this to me.
Diane, I think your hygge spot sounds wonderfully cozy! Enjoy!
Love the new word! Thank you!
Isn’t it fun?