Seasonal practices include mundanely enjoying a season and all the benefits that particular season has to offer. In the time between Samhain and Winter Solstice, we are entering into the darkest time of the year in the northern hemisphere. In the Pacific Northwest of the US, winter season is upon us. The days are darker, colder and wetter. We heat our house partly with wood stove, which creates a cozy environment. Living in time with the earth’s rhythms can look like echoing the activities of the animal world. Hunkering down into the warmth of the center of our home, piling on the blankets like a bear heading into hibernation. Making soup, homemade bread, preserving foods, drying fruits are all activities that bring us back to our animal bodies, remembering our connection and the flow of energy with earth.
Recently I learned of a phrase that describes some of the winter activities that creates a calm, centering feeling for me. I thought I would share the concept of- Hygge. "Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word that describes a cozy, contented feeling that comes from comfort and conviviality. It's pronounced "hoo-gah". I love that there is a term for cozying up next to a fire, with a warm cup of tea and a good book. What are some good winter hygge activities and how can you incorporate this into seasonal living?
Winter season naturally is a slower season. Many of us in the United States might not feel the slow down that would be part of a less capitalistic world. If we were mirroring the activities of the winter we would spend more time resting, sleeping and conserving energy. Hygge is in alignment with this idea. With longer nights we might sleep more than usual. We might be reading more or doing handcrafts like crocheting, knitting or similar fabric arts. We might be limiting our social activities.
In the summer it is more likely that you are out camping, swimming, hiking, adventuring out in the world and likely with friends. Winter is a more introverted season. I find myself to be in the center in the introvert/extrovert identity. I can speak to a crowd, and I love big parties. I also need some time alone and I love a weekend solo without other humans in my vicinity. As someone who appreciates both introvert-ness and extrovert-ness I find myself leaning deeper into each of these ways of being with each season. In Winter, I find myself connecting more with local family members or neighbors rather than extending my invitations to people I see only once or twice a year. I realize not everyone has this luxury.
What would happen if you slowed down and retreated in all the ways that you can? I know this is not possible for some people. Capitalism really ramps up during this season and many workers are required to work extra hours. People with children find themselves running kids to rehearsals of holiday plays, dance performances and choirs. Sometimes this season can be a relentless hurry up and do, do, do. But in the times that you can create quiet slow moments, how would you ‘be’ rather than ‘do’. This is Hygge culture. Slow, restful and cozy.
I had dinner last might with a friend from Denmark and another friend from Norway and I asked them to describe Hygge in their own words. They described a ‘cabin in the woods, with candlelight, warm blankets and a good book.“ Hygge is a warm sweater, a soft scarf, and slippers. Hygge is your favorite warm beverage and yummy baked goods. Hygge can also be an aesthetic. I like to think of Hygge as a practice.
How can you increase the Hygge in your environment and celebrate Winter?
Here are a few tips:
1. Lower the lights in your home and burn some candles. Let your body experience the low lighting of the season.
2. Incorporate natural elements into your décor. Celebrate winter with evergreen trees, imagery of snow, and winter animals like deer and foxes.
3. Create a relaxing environment with soft music and I love using the ‘fireplace’ imagery on you tube. There are other images you can use to create atmosphere, search for “cozy winter ambience” and you will find beautiful scenes to add to your living room experience.
4. Wear your coziest clothes. Warm sweaters, warm socks, nothing scratchy, only soft and cozy clothes.
5. Let yourself experience pleasure. Indulge in your favorite shows, get a massage, get a facial, do whatever feels pleasurable to you.
6. Let yourself slow down. Take a day to truly rest. Read a book, go for a walk, take a nap, and just be.
Enjoy exploring the concept of Hygge and bringing more slowness and quiet into your winter experience. Look to the earth for tips for a more fulfilling winter experience. Rest well my friends. Winter is coming.
Comments