As the cold winds of winter start to blow, few things are as comforting as the simple act of wrapping yourself in a blanket. The concept of Hygge, originating from Denmark, celebrates this feeling of cosiness, warmth, and contentment. Hygge is about embracing the slow, quiet moments in life, especially when temperatures drop. What better way to do that than to wrap yourself in a blanket and prepare for the cold, dark months ahead? This article will explore how you can bring Hygge into your home, creating the perfect winter retreat to relax, unwind, and feel nurtured.
What is Hygge and Why is It Important for Winter?
Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is a Danish concept that centres around comfort, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. It's about finding joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly during the cold, dark months when the outdoors feels less inviting. Winter can be a tough time for many, with long nights and freezing temperatures, but Hygge offers a way to transform this season into one of tranquillity and well-being. By taking time to wrap yourself in a blanket, enjoy a warm drink, and light a candle, you can cultivate a sense of peace and happiness.
The Key Elements of Hygge
To embrace Hygge during winter, focus on these core elements:
- Warmth: Think blankets, hot drinks, and a crackling fire.
- Comfort: Soft furnishings, oversized jumpers, and snug seating areas.
- Ambience: Soft lighting, candles, and calming colours.
- Connection: Time spent with loved ones, whether in quiet company or enjoying meaningful conversations.
Wrap Yourself in a Blanket: The Hygge Essential
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to bring Hygge into your life is to wrap yourself in a blanket. Blankets symbolise comfort, protection, and warmth, all of which are key aspects of Hygge. Whether you're reading a book, watching your favourite series, or simply enjoying a cup of tea, being wrapped in a blanket creates an immediate sense of security and relaxation.
Choosing the Right Blanket for Hygge
When selecting a blanket to accompany your Hygge lifestyle, there are a few things to consider:
- Material: Wool, fleece, and cashmere are all excellent options for warmth and softness.
- Texture: Opt for blankets with a chunky knit or a soft, plush texture to maximise cosiness.
- Colour: Neutral tones like cream, grey, and earthy browns add to the calm, soothing atmosphere of Hygge. Soft pastels and muted colours can also evoke a peaceful mood.
- Size: Larger blankets that allow you to fully wrap yourself up or share with a loved one add to the feeling of comfort.
See the range of blankets & throws availabe from The Oxford Kitchen & Garden Company here
Different Ways to Enjoy Your Blanket
Wrapping yourself in a blanket can become an everyday ritual during the winter months. Here are a few ideas:
- While reading: Create a snug reading nook with a comfy chair, a lamp, and a soft blanket. It's the perfect setting for getting lost in a good book.
- On the sofa: Whether you're binge-watching your favourite TV shows or having a lazy Sunday, a cosy blanket is the perfect companion for your downtime.
- At bedtime: Layer blankets on your bed for added warmth and comfort during the coldest nights.
- By the fire: If you have a fireplace, there's nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a blanket and enjoying the warmth of the flames as you sip on a hot drink.
Hygge-Approved Textures and Colours for Winter Comfort
The textures and colours you choose for your home play a big part in creating a Hygge atmosphere. Hygge is about indulging in the senses, and touch is one of the most important. Wrapping yourself in a blanket with the right texture can immediately soothe and relax you.
Best Textures for Hygge
- Chunky knits: The tactile quality of thick, knitted blankets adds both warmth and a rustic, homely feel to any space.
- Faux fur: Soft and luxurious, faux fur blankets and cushions are perfect for adding an extra layer of comfort.
- Wool: Natural wool is breathable yet insulating, making it ideal for maintaining warmth without overheating.
- Cotton: For those who prefer a lighter option, cotton blankets offer softness while remaining breathable.
Cosy Colour Palettes for Winter
When creating a Hygge-inspired space, colour is crucial. Soft, natural tones help to cultivate a calm and restful environment.
- Neutrals: Shades like beige, cream, and light grey create a soft, understated background that encourages relaxation.
- Earthy tones: Colours such as burnt orange, forest green, and deep browns can add warmth and depth to your space.
- Pastels: Gentle hues of soft pink, light blue, or lavender can infuse your home with a peaceful, calming vibe.
Bringing Hygge Into Your Home: More Than Just Blankets
While wrapping yourself in a blanket is the most iconic image of Hygge, there are many other ways to infuse this Danish concept into your home, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the winter months.
Hygge Lighting: Create a Warm, Inviting Glow
Lighting is central to Hygge. As the days get shorter and darkness arrives earlier, warm, soft lighting can make all the difference.
- Candles: Nothing says Hygge like the warm glow of candles. Place them around your home, particularly in areas where you relax the most. Opt for natural, unscented candles for a more authentic experience, or choose scents like vanilla, cinnamon, or pine for added warmth.
- Fairy lights: Drape fairy lights over shelves or around windows to add a touch of magic to your living space.
- Lamps with warm bulbs: Avoid harsh, overhead lighting. Instead, use lamps with warm-toned bulbs to create a gentle, soothing glow.
Soft Furnishings: Cushions, Rugs, and More
To fully embrace Hygge, it’s important to focus on soft furnishings that make your space more inviting and comfortable.
- Cushions: Layer your sofa or bed with oversized, soft cushions in various textures and patterns. This creates a plush, inviting spot to relax.
- Rugs: A thick, fluffy rug adds warmth to any room, making it more comfortable for bare feet during the cold months.
- Throws: In addition to blankets, keep a few throws draped over your sofa or armchair. These add an extra layer of warmth and are easy to grab when the temperature drops.
Incorporate Nature for a Hygge Feel
Hygge encourages a connection with nature, even when you’re inside. Bringing natural elements into your home helps ground you and creates a sense of peace.
- Wood accents: Incorporate wooden furniture, bowls, or trays to add a rustic, organic feel.
- Plants: Houseplants help purify the air and add life to your home during the winter months.
- Natural scents: Use essential oils like pine, cedarwood, or lavender in a diffuser to evoke the calming scent of nature indoors.
Wrapping Yourself in More than Blankets: Hygge Activities for Winter
Hygge isn’t just about the physical aspects of cosiness—it’s also a state of mind. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the moment, and finding joy in simple activities. Wrapping yourself in a blanket is just the beginning. Here are some Hygge-approved winter activities to enhance your well-being during the colder months:
Winter Reading: Escape Into a Book
Winter is the perfect time to lose yourself in a novel. Find a cosy corner, wrap yourself in a blanket, and let yourself be transported to another world. Reading allows you to disconnect from technology and spend time in quiet reflection.
Enjoying Warm Drinks: A Hygge Staple
Nothing complements the feeling of wrapping yourself in a blanket quite like a warm drink. Whether it’s a hot cup of tea, cocoa, or mulled wine, these beverages bring warmth to both body and soul.
- Tea: Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are great for winding down in the evening.
- Hot chocolate: Indulge in a rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with marshmallows for the ultimate winter treat.
- Mulled wine: Spiced and warm, mulled wine is a Hygge favourite for a cosy night in.
Embrace Creative Hobbies
Winter is a great time to take up creative hobbies that encourage mindfulness and relaxation.
- Knitting: If you enjoy DIY projects, knitting your own blanket or scarf can be incredibly rewarding—and very Hygge.
- Baking: Try your hand at baking comforting treats like cinnamon rolls, gingerbread, or warm apple pie.
- Journaling: Writing in a journal allows you to reflect on your day and clear your mind, making it a great winter activity.
Wrapping Up Hygge: Creating Your Own Winter Sanctuary
Wrapping yourself in a blanket as the winter months approach is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to embrace Hygge. It's not just about keeping warm—it's about creating a sanctuary for yourself, where you can escape the harshness of the cold outside and immerse yourself in comfort, warmth, and peace. By focusing on soft furnishings, lighting, and simple pleasures like reading or enjoying a warm drink, you can transform your home into a space that nurtures both body and mind during the winter season.
The Final Touches to Your Hygge Winter Retreat
- Personal mementos: Add a few sentimental items like framed photos or your favourite books to personalise your cosy space.
- Music: Create a playlist of soft, relaxing tunes to enhance the calm atmosphere.
- Connection: Invite a loved one to share your cosy space. Hygge is also about togetherness, whether that means quiet companionship or meaningful conversation.
Incorporating these simple yet powerful elements into your winter routine will help you embrace the colder months with a positive mindset, surrounded by comfort and warmth. So, wrap yourself in a blanket, light a candle, and let Hygge guide you into winter contentment.
