Every winter rolls in with its chilly days and early sunsets (very early), cozying up at home becomes a thing. During our time in Sweden, we really got to know the idea of hygge—pronounced "hoo-gah." Even though it’s a Danish term, it totally fits the vibe in all the Nordic countries. This whole concept is all about embracing warmth, joy, and, making it a perfect way to enjoy the winter months.
While Canadians also seek comfort during long winters, the Nordic perspective on coziness shows us valuable insights. In this post, I'll share what I learned about hygge’s essence, its impact on Scandinavian living, and in a strange way this concept somehow aligns with Canadian winter traditions.
What's Hygge?
Hygge is all about enjoying the little things in life and finding joy in everyday moments. It’s a Danish word that basically means cozy vibes, togetherness, and feeling good. This whole idea is a great way to tackle daily stress, reminding us to just chill out and soak in the present moment.
In Scandinavian culture, hygge can manifest in a variety of settings, like a cozy dinner with friends, candlelights, or a reading nook adorned with soft fabrics. It focuses on simple yet profound pleasures, like preparing and savouring a meal, spending time by the fireplace, or enjoying the stillness of a snowy night.
How It Was in Sweden: Inviting Environments
Nordic design in general, aligns closely with hygge, focusing on minimalism, functionality, and natural elements. Homes often feature soft hues and organic materials that mirror nature's beauty. Our place in Stockholm was very much like this, super minimalist apartment, but functional and super cozy at the same time.
We've got cozy spots that made for great evenings, e, the soft glow of a lamp or candles (side note: Swedish people loooove candles so much that we could find entire sections in stores just for candles). We didn't have a fiteplace (that we left in Canada though...lol) lounging around a warm fire and enjoying a cup of tea, makes up for a great night. It's all about creating that chill vibe that feels super inviting.
Textiles, like blankets, rugs, and cushions add both comfort and visual appeal. Layering different materials transforms a house into a snug retreat.
Self-Care and Relaxation in Nordic Culture
Self-care is a big part of hygge. It's super important to carve out some time for yourself, especially during those long, dark winters. A lot of folks in Scandinavia have their go-to rituals for chilling out, like soaking in a nice bath, sipping herbal teas, or just taking a moment to meditate and relax.
Consider the simple pleasure of curling up with a good book in a cozy blanket or sharing a lazy brunch with friends. These moments promote peace and fulfillment, standing in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Embracing the hygge mindset encourages us to slow down and appreciate life's simple moments.
Celebrating Winter with Loved Ones
Hygge shines brightest when shared. Whether inviting friends over for a warm meal or gathering around a fire with family, the essence of hygge amplifies in the company of others.
This communal aspect counters the potential isolation of winter. Scandinavians often prioritize hosting gatherings, honoring traditions, and creating memories amid the cold. For instance, traditional winter festivals or holiday celebrations are popular, bringing people together to enjoy shared experiences.
Comparing Nordic Coziness with Canadian Winter Living
Canadians are so used with winter and have developed their approach to comfort. Both cultures value coziness, yet their celebrations differ.
Canadians embrace winter through outdoor activities (I know...crazy eh) like having some hot chocolate by the fire, skating on outdoor rinks, or enjoying fully the enormously amounts of snow. There’s a strong inclination to see the cold as an opportunity for adventure, often leading to outdoor events even in super super cold temperatures. During our time in Canada, I felt that people are more inclined to keep life as usual, meaning we don't run away from the cold (I do... lol); instead, we make it part of our routines.
On the other hand, I noticed the Swedish culture emphasizes creating indoor havens that soften winter's bite. The focus shifts to leisurely social gatherings, quiet moments, and nurturing comfort in an inviting indoor space. Maybe because of the lack of sunlight in Sweden, the idea of cozying up indoors makes more sense. Something that in Canada (in most parts) doesn't happen. The sunlight doesn't go away the same way as in the Nordics.
Finding Common Ground
Despite the differences, both cultures cherish warmth and coziness during cold months. They share a strong community spirit, a love for simplicity, and an appreciation for comfort.
As winter rolls in, both Nordic and Canadian traditions remind us to take some time for ourselves and just chill out. Whether it's hygge vibes or cozy Canadian customs, these traditions really push us to appreciate the good stuff—like hanging out with our loved ones and enjoying the moment.
Embracing the Coziness of Winter
As winter envelops the world outside, we can look to the hygge philosophy for inspiration in our own homes.
By focusing on simple joys, creating inviting spaces, and prioritizing self-care, we each have the opportunity to foster our version of hygge—whether in Canada or the Nordics. As we adapt to our surroundings and blend the best of both worlds, we can find warmth and happiness no matter how chilly it gets outside.
In essence, hygge encourages us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and appreciate life’s small pleasures, transforming winter into a season of connection and comfort.
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