Image: Clair Strong Interior Design

If you’re a frequent reader of design blogs or magazines, you’ve probably come across the word hygge.

It’s a Danish word (pronounced hoo-gah) that roughly translates to cosiness. But it’s not just a word; it’s a whole concept – one the Danes fully embrace. In essence, it’s about creating warm, joyful moments every single day. It’s about enjoying the little things in life, preferably whilst surrounded by friends and family.

A few examples; a candlelit dinner with friends is hygge. Extra soft blankets and oversized scarves are hygge. Making proper coffee and lingering over it is hygge. As is reading a good book next to the fire or buying fresh flowers every week.

The Danes survive their long, dark and very cold winters with this simple concept. It’s no wonder they’re considered one of the happiest nations in the world.

Since we’re in the depths of our own rather miserable winter, now seems like the perfect time to adopt this concept for ourselves. January is one of the hardest months to get through, so let’s make it a little more palatable with hygge. Here are some ideas:

1. Create simple daily rituals

With stressful jobs and busy home lives, it can feel like the weeks fly by in a blur. Creating simple rituals – like drinking tea from a proper china cup – can force you to be more present in your day.

Choose to do things that make you feel good; things you’d miss if you didn’t do them. Like buying freshly baked bread from the little shop down the road, lighting a candle at dinner or diverting your walk home to go past the street with the really pretty houses.

2. Consider the space around you

The home is a very important part of hygge and a cosy, intimate atmosphere is essential. This might seem hard to create in large, open plan spaces but it’s not impossible.

Instead of harsh overhead lighting, use lamps with warm bulbs and candles, lots of candles. Fill sofas with comfortable cushions and beautiful blankets. Have stacks of books and magazines close at hand. Light the fire (if you have one). And move furniture closer together; creating little areas in which to gather and talk.

3. Gather with friends and family

And do gather! Get friends round to your cosy home to enjoy a home cooked meal and good conversation, or a rowdy session of board games. If you’d rather go out, country pubs and tiny coffee shops are ideal hygge-like spots.

In short, hygge is good for the soul and well worth embracing to help you through the tough winter months.