Hygge: What It is and How Can It Help You During Quarantine

posted on July 21, 2020 | by Aswathy Suresh

Quarantine and work from home is threatening to become a never-ending work shift for many of us, leaving no time for a proper break to relax and rejuvenate. What with the extended work hours, cleaning, cooking, and laundry, many of us are often snappy and irritable. 

Yes, we’ve all gone through this at least once by now, but I recently came across a concept called Hygge, which has helped me relax and unwind so thoroughly that I’m able to turn my working hours into really productive ones and contentment than before. The moment I did this, I knew I had to share it with you all…so here’s the trick to relax thoroughly and find peace and bliss in your surroundings. 

Do, you know that the Scandinavians are one of the happiest people on Earth and that they have a remarkably relaxed approach to life? So, what is their secret? It’s hygge. 

Hygge (Pronounced Hoo-gah), is a Danish term-and simply put, it means effortless comfort and content. It means well-being and coziness. It is the art of creating intimacy and finding bliss in the simplest of things. 

Enjoying a good read by the fireside? That’s hygge. Enjoying a cup of warm beverage with a loved one? That’s hygge. 

For the Danish, hygge is their way of life. And in all certainty, I can say that most of us are in need of some hygge at this point in time. 

How can we incorporate hygge into our quarantine days?

Hygge stresses on 5 elements that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.

1. Light

Hygge starts with candles. Ask the Danish and they will say warm, welcoming lights are the first prerequisite to a relaxed atmosphere. Think candles and their glowing wicks- a part of every Danish household. Experience comfort and joy by adding a spark of light. Literally! 

I lit candles on my coffee table, plopped onto the couch with a favorite book in hand (okay, there was wine too), and just savored the moment. 

2. Cozy blankets

Hygge is all about warmth and coziness, and the next item on the list is a soft, light-weight blanket. It’s all about the perfect way to unwind and relax, and what’s more relaxing than snuggling up with a cup of cocoa and a book, or just listening to soothing music in the candlelight with your loved one? 

3. Homemade comfort food

Familiarity is key here- think of your favorite meals, prepared with fresh ingredients, and served steaming hot. Baking, cooking, and dining are experiences to savor thoroughly, and Hygge recommends that you enjoy a candlelight dinner every now and then. Oh, and didn’t I tell you—hygge doesn’t deprive you of that cake you’ve been lusting after!

4. Nature

You know the uplifted, refreshed feeling you feel when surrounded by greenery? Hygge wants you to bring the outdoors in and allow the greenery to rejuvenate your mind. I arranged lush leaves in potted plants, vibrant flowers in neutral-hued vases, and took a step back to survey the effect—an inexpressible charm to the room and peace to the soul.

5. Loungewear and self care

Ever since the lockdown and quarantine settled in, we’re all lounging around in our comfiest pajamas all day long. How convenient is it that Loungewear happens to be the Hygge way of nailing cozy comfort! Add to that, a nourishing face mask, a book, a soft blanket, and a cup of cocoa—you’ve just created the ultimate unwind session. Just make sure that you are in a fresh pair of your comfiest clothing. 

There you go—a simple list of things that can be easily incorporated into your routine for a thorough rejuvenation…So, what are you waiting for? Create the right atmosphere, experience the sensations of hygge and watch the stress and anxiety melt away from your body and mind.