November, 2023
About this time of year, a collective groan that can be heard across the land. It happens when the days turn from what can be called an invigorating Fall chill to what is commonly known as downright freezing. The groan sounds something like…… brrrrr and is accompanied by something that sounds like I…hate…winter. Hate is such a strong word, but there are lots of reasons to hate winters in New England. Who likes the shortened hours of daylight when so many drive to work in the dark and return home to much of the same. And who is ready to welcome the arrival of single digit temperatures that freeze the tips of fingers and toes and nose when scraping frost from the windshield.
I want to be cheerful about the whole winter thing. I really do. I want to be more like those Nordic types who celebrate winter in their Hygge style. It has been said that the Scandinavians are some of the happiest people in the world, and the cold and dark days of winter only seem to make them happier. What can we learn from this northern culture that has been dealing with the cold for so many centuries? Hygge (pronounced hoo-guh) is an old Norwegian term derived from “hugga” which means to comfort. Some things still translate so well. The ingredients they use to create this style are ones that are readily available like glowing candles, warm wool socks, soft flannel, and a good book.
To my eye, it seems to be about developing an appreciation for the simple things in the life around us like a walk in the cold before sunset with layers of clothes that provide protection from winter’s blast. It means a return to the warmth of shelter for a hot beverage of choice followed by a home cooked meal made from simple ingredients. This can be a solo event or one shared with friends by the hearthside or by candlelight. It is not about accumulating more things to add to our happiness but rather developing an appreciation for the things that we do have. It is about creating a life that allows the time for awareness. If our dream homes are not within our grasp just yet, we can create small spaces of refuge from the busy world. We can put a plant by a window where it can absorb the morning sunshine and add some greenery. Add a spot to put the cup of coffee, and a comfy place to read and reflect. We can create spaces where we can rest and meditate on the blessings in our lives and nurture a mindfulness so needed in today’s hectic world. Give your life space for the respect it deserves.
Hygge details gleaned from The New Yorker, ”The Year of Hygge, The Danish Obsession with Getting Cozy” by Anna Altman
