It’s no secret around here that I’ve always hated winter. I resent the cold and gloomy skies. My dermatologist told me if I don’t stop perpetually using my heating pad, I’ll have a permanent rash. I believe I was meant to live somewhere tropical as I’m a summer gal at heart, forever, and I need it to go away. If you read our last two posts, you know that my take on the new year is rest and embracing the season as an opportunity. I mean, if ya can’t beat ’em… This year, instead of fighting it like I always do, wishing for warmer sunny days ahead, I’m rolling with it. As much as I bemoan the fact that we’re not all bears that hibernate, I realize that this isn’t going away any time soon. So here are a few ways I intend to celebrate the colder months while they’re here, along with some ideas to boot. Happy Hygge!

I’ve always loved the Scandinavian term Hygge {hyoo·guh} – basically embracing the season in self-care with “the feeling of coziness, contentment, and security.” It comes down to a nice mix of mental health, small joys, and the little things that go a long way. Today, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite ways to do just that, along with a few things I plan to practice this season. So, without further ado… {some of these contain affiliate links; thanks so much for understanding!}

1. + 6. Staying Cozy – If you hate the cold and don’t want a heating pad rash like me, I think it’s all about the little things you can do to make winter your bestie. Big blankets, fuzzy socks + thermal underwear like a cartoon character from 1950-something is definitely the way to go. 

2. Sunlight – No secret it’s essential. So go out whenever you can on sunny days for a little vitamin D and sanity. But when it’s gloomy for days on end? This light is my go-to. 

3. Hot Chocolate Bar – Have some friends over for a little happy, warm gathering. We love this hot chocolate + these mugs. For more ideas via awesome toppings, check out our post here. 

4. Propagation Station – I own this one and love it. There’s something exciting about propagating plants, and it’s the perfect time to do so, before spring is here. It also gives you something to look forward to…

5. Memory Maker – I think there’s something fun about an instant camera, and bulletin board combo. I say snap them whenever you can, and then create some functional art for your home with this board. It’s a nice reminder of the people in your life. {Non-boujee camera version, here.}

7. Mirrorball – I find that mirrorballs go a long way on sunny days for a little extra sparkle. We’ve done this ever since the kids were little. I may eventually pack Christmas away, but the mirrorballs will stay. 

8. S’mores Kit – It’s like a mini session in your house when it’s so cold… or you can build one outside too. 

9. Stay moisturized – Two of my new high and low faves are right here. One for your face so you always have that hydrated glow, and one for your body. 

10. Stress relief – and self-care cards – these act as proactive little reminders for your day. 

11. This Book – for more of a fun look into applying the art of hygge.  

12. Hobbies – One winter, a friend convinced me to take a stained glass class with her, and there was no turning back. Whether it’s embroidery, paint by number, clay, or watercolors… take up a hobby and invest your time in finding something you love.  

13. Layer up Your Home – We love the idea of velvet everything in cozy layers, from curtains to pillows {and I couldn’t resist this fun find here.} Again, back to that cozy thing. 

14. This candle – crackles as it burns. 

15. Journal – because gratitude is everything. 

16. Game night – host a game night with all your friends. {This is a boujee representation but I love the colors + you can also collect them slowly over time.} Clearly any board game will do. 

17. Sledding – If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere that it snows, be ready. I’m always shocked by how many people liv in Nashville and then don’t have sleds when it snows. Everyone should have sleds. Everyone should go sledding. The end. 

Some other things I’d definitely add are book exchanges, moving your body daily + getting those workouts in, and comfort movies. January is a fresh start, but there’s no reason to berate ourselves over all those things we need to be doing… we should be in recovery mode. It’s all about the little things daily and embracing the season where we are. What are some of your favorite things for hygge? We’d love to hear. 

Have an inspired day!