holiday mug and ginger cookies

Holidays Are The Most Hyggelig Time of Year

holiday mug and ginger cookies

As the world darkens outside, a cozy atmosphere takes light inside. Warm and contented spirits fill any room surrounded by family and good friends. The aroma of fresh pine trees fills the air as you sip mulled wine or hot chocolate by a roaring fire, and laughter sprinkles throughout your holiday meal. This experience is the beloved Hygge feeling!

What is Hygge, you ask? Pronounced “hoo-ga.” It is a Danish word hard to translate but best described as cozy contentment or vibe. According to Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, the original word in Norwegian means well-being. However, Hygge might originate from the word hug. Hug comes from the 1560s word Hugge, which means to embrace.

In Denmark, Hygge is a lifestyle embedded deep in their culture. In the west, most people know it as a Danish design concept of creating a mood of coziness and contentment, especially in one’s home. It is an environment where you feel safe and protected from the world — you can relax, unwind and let your guard down. Do you want to get Hygged?

Well, I have good news for you. You can experience Hygge without living in Denmark, and the holidays are the most Hyggelig time of the year. — gather with your favorite folks, get comfy by a warm fire, grab some mulled wine or cocoa and bask in delight. After all these challenging times, even relaxation can taste sweet as an encore this season- so take it easy while cherishing all you are grateful for today. It will be sure to make your spirits bright.

If you want to learn more about Hygge and well-being, stay tuned for the Wellness Inspired Podcast, Episode #029, Get Hygged This Holiday Season and All Year Round.

Here are some simple ways to get into the Hygge spirit during the holidays:

  • Surround yourself with family and good friends
  • Practice family rituals and traditions
  • Decorate with holiday spirit
  • Dim the lights and light candles
  • Light the fireplace (if you can)
  • Enjoy good food
  • Engage in conversation, small or meaningful
  • Connect with your neighbors
  • Play games with family and friends
  • Have gratitude

If you want to know more about Hygge and well-being, check out the Wellness Inspired Podcast.

“The only way to optimal health is to take care of ourselves everyday emotionally, physically and mentally.”

Sheri Davidson, licensed acupuncturist and wellness coach, specializes in preventative medicine. She loves sharing her passion for wellness living and Eastern medicine through her blog, The Wellness Inspired Podcast, and practice, Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness in Rice Village District of Houston, TX.

To find out more about wellness living and natural healing, follow Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness on Instagram, Facebook, Google, and Linkedin. If you know of anyone who would benefit from our content, please share.

Let’s stay healthy together!

Blog: Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness

Sheri Davidson, L.Ac + Wellness Coach