If you want to take a cue on how to do winter the right way, look no further than the Danish—who are among the happiest people in the world despite little daylight and cold temps for months on end.
By embracing “hygge,” which is essentially the practice of getting cozy and content, the folks over in Denmark are clearly doing something right. Many of them even hygge-ify their lives by having designated “hyggebukser,” or ultra-comfy pants, and “hyggekrog,” or nooks of the house for downtime.
But, before you go and get a whole new wardrobe or remodel your house, here are a few simpler ways to bring hygge into your own life…
- Put your fireplace to use with regular fires
- Go ice skating at the Railyard Ice Rink
- Swap your sheets for a new flannel set
- Bring some greenery into your home (even if it’s faux)
- Experiment with add-in flavors for hot chocolate like peppermint or orange
- Embrace seasonal decor on your front porch
- Add some spa-like elements to your bathroom
- Splurge on a few new, cozy sweaters
- Take your time while making dinner to enjoy the process
- Simplify meal planning by scheduling a weekly comfort food night
- Head over to Pioneers Park and sketch a winter landscape
- Host a book club meeting with some friends
- Invite neighbors over for happy hour with hot toddies
- Make gingerbread cookies
- Light some winter-themed candles
- Rent gear to try out a new outdoor activity like snowshoeing
- Buy tickets for a show at the Lied Center or a local theater
- Designate TV-free nights and start reading a new book
- Take an online class in something creative like photography or hand-lettering
- Plan a date for a local cooking class
- Upgrade your sock drawer and include some fuzzy new pairs
- Draft plans for your garden
- Go for a long walk—yes, even in the cold
