Hygge has become quite the buzzword in the past few years. It is the Danish art of living cozier, and numerous books like “The Little Book of Hygge” have become international best sellers. Since Denmark is constantly at the top of lists ranking the happiest countries in the world, it’s no wonder that the rest of us are eager to learn these Danish secrets.
Here are four ways that you can add hygge to your home.
Dim the Lights
Lighting can have a major effect on your mood and energy level. Let hygge lead your lighting plan by swapping out bulbs that give off cool light for bulbs that have a warmer tone. Install dimmers on all overhead lighting in your home to allow you to customize it based on your needs. Look to nature and aim to keep indoor lighting low after the sun goes down so that you can wind down for the evening. For an extra boost of hygge after dark, keep plenty of unscented candles around your home and use them for lighting instead of electric bulbs. As an added bonus, candlelight is also known for being the most flattering lighting.
Look at Your Tech Usage
Apple’s latest iOS update features Screentime, a great feature that shows you how much you are really using your phone and what apps you use the most, and the results can be a reality check. Aim to put down your phone more so you can be more present and enjoy your loved ones. Create a schedule of allowing yourself some guilt-free screen time and some designated tech-free time. Make it easier to maintain this balance by eliminating any apps on your phone that you don’t use and consolidating others into organized sections.
On the flip side, it’s important to make sure your home is a safe place to relax and enjoy your newly incorporated hygge. One effective way to do this is to use a home security camera system. There are many styles to choose from, including wired and wire free, so be sure to research which cameras are right for your abode.
Focus on Textures
Give your home decor a little update by adding in accessories in soft, touchable textures. Focus on your seating areas and in your bedroom and any other spaces in your home where you like to relax that could use a touch of hygge. Think plush velvet pillow covers, chunky knit wool blankets and a faux-fur throw or cushion. Make sure that you have a cozy place to kick your feet up by adding a pair of knit pouf ottomans. Woven baskets add a nice dash of texture as well. They make a great place to store extra pillows and blankets for those nights when one blanket just isn’t enough.
Surround Yourself With Stories
Hygge home have a particular richness to them that is even more heightened to those who dwell there. Bring this principle into your home by getting rid of generic, mass-produced decor in favor of personal items that tell a story. This may be your favorite candlesticks from your grandmother’s home, a large-scale photo of your favorite vacation destination or a collection of found objects from forest walks with friends. It could be a favorite book or a small trinket from an adventure abroad. The goal is to look around your home and be reminded of stories that make you smile.
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