Since we are true Minnesotans, talking about the weather is one of our favorite things to do. And nothing gets Minnesotans as excited as talking about a big storm coming! So what’s a person to do when a winter storm comes? Hunker down, grab a warm cup of coffee or tea (or even a hot toddy!) and read about getting comfy and cozy and all hygge-d out! What is hygge (pronounced “hue-guh”) you ask? It’s a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that leads to a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a characteristic of Danish culture).


So with anywhere from 0-24 inches of snow coming this weekend (this is Minnesota after all, we never really know how much snow is coming) let’s cozy down with some hygge trends.

Candles

Turn down the lights and light a few candles. Have you ever noticed how there always a candlelit garden, teamed with twinkling lights, fireflies and an open fire in romantic comedies? It’s because it welcomes in cozy and warm feelings!

Make

Pastries

Tebirkes (Danish poppy seed rolls) are to Denmark what pasta is to Italy. The Danes eat around 10 kilos (each!) of pastries and cakes each year and are most famed for their Danish pastry, otherwise known as 'Wienerbrød' so it makes sense that they're all so happy – they're eating pastry all day long! A big part of 'hygge' is indulging in what you enjoy and never denying yourself of enjoyment. Get the recipe here!

Dress for the Weather

Comfy sweatpants, wool socks, your favorite sweatshirt, and a nice blanket will get you through the coldest and snowiest of nights.

Find Nature

There may not be a lot of green outdoors through the winter months, but that doesn’t stop the Danes from bringing it inside to lighten and brighten! Wood floors and furniture, winter greenery like pine branches, eucalyptus, and berries, and open blinds to let in all that nature has to offer.

Bring in the Books

Taking a break with a good book is one of the mainstays of hygge, especially in winter when people are cooped up inside. So why not fill a shelf with gorgeous books?! Or even a whole room! We can all agree that they have a special way of making a space feel more welcoming and lived in… a simple addition that is very hyggelig.

Gather ‘round the Fire

It doesn’t get much cozier in winter than lighting a fire. In fact, fireside may just be the ultimate hygge sanctuary. If you’re lucky enough to have a one, making the hearth the focal point in the room (rather than the TV, for instance) will help create intimacy. Also, make sure you have ample amounts of blankets and pillows on hand for spur of the moment hang outs with friends.

Keep it Simple

And lastly, remember that to live Danishly is about simplifying. About only surrounding yourself with the things that really make you happy. Hygge is not about extravagance, but about taking pleasure in the sheer simplicity of your immediate surroundings. Use your space for living rather than a storage of stuff. Winter may just be the perfect time to purge away the excess.

So stay warm and cozy and be safe out there. Spring will be here soon!