Holiday Prep Hygge-Style: Turning the Festive Season into a Cozy & Stress-Free Experience
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own. Thank you for your support and help in keeping Sarah K Voiles running!
The holiday season is upon us. A time for gratitude, love, giving, and joyful gatherings.
But let's face it, sometimes it can also be synonymous with the word 'stress.'
Shopping, cooking, cleaning, hosting – anyone else starting to feel overwhelmed just thinking about it?
One way of shifting our approach to holiday prep lies in a little concept from our friends in Denmark known as 'hygge.'
In essence, hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is all about indulging in life's simple pleasures and creating a warm and cozy environment.
Can we apply hygge to create a more serene holiday season?
Absolutely - let’s delve into some hygge-inspired tips to transform your holiday preparations into a calm, cozy, stress-free experience.
How Can You Holiday the Hygge Way?
Strike the right balance between what needs to be done and what creates comfort and warmth.
The holidays are meant to be an affirmation of our connections to each other, not a stress-storm of overcomplication.
Let's break it down.
01// Embrace Simplicity
Start by simplifying your holiday to-do list.
The charm and magic of hygge lie in its simplicity.
So say no to tasks that don't bring joy, and yes to whatever gives you a sense of happiness, comfort, and peace.
Maybe this means buying fewer gifts or spending less time on complex dishes and more time enjoying the holiday ambiance.
Hygge is about appreciating the simple things in life, like a good cup of cocoa or the warmth of a fire.
02// Plan Ahead
Make a list and check it twice! By planning ahead, you'll avoid last-minute stress and will be more likely to enjoy each task.
Think about your meals, gifts, decorations, and guest lists before the arrival of the festive rush.
03// Comfort Food Made Easy
Hygge is as much about food as it is about anything else.
From cozy bowls of soup to fresh-baked cookies, enjoying delicious comfort food is a big part of this Danish concept.
Prepare simple, nourishing dishes that can be made in advance.
Slow cooker meals, casseroles, and dump-and-bake recipes are your best friends here – they're easy to prepare and perfect for creating that warm, homely feel.
Keep Your Home Hygge
Creating a hygge home environment goes beyond just clearing away clutter.
It means creating a space that is warm, peaceful, and inviting.
01// Cozy Ambience
Think warm lighting, blankets, and candles.
These are the essentials for a hygge experience.
When you're decorating your home, prioritize elements that bring comfort and coziness.
02// Natural Elements
Incorporating natural elements, such as evergreen boughs, pine cones, and wooden ornaments can enhance the feeling of being close to nature, another important aspect of hygge.
03// Comfort Corners
Take some time to create hygge nooks where you and your guests can nestle in comfort, share stories or enjoy a quiet moment, further encouraging that sense of calm and togetherness.
Nurture Togetherness
Remember what the holiday season is really about: connection.
01// Enjoy Shared Activities
Be it decorating the tree, baking cookies, or simple outdoor games – shared activities create a positive environment and enhance bonding.
02// Slow Down
In the midst of the holiday craze, take a breather, slow down, and consider the true essence of the season.
Staying present in each moment allows us to truly connect with those around us.
Hygge-Inspired Ideas to Consider
01// Hygge Holiday Decor
Create an Inviting Entryway: Welcome guests with a festive wreath, soft doormat, and warm lanterns.
Decorate with Warm Textiles: Comfy blankets, flannel sheets, and plush towels can become an integral part of your holiday home decor.
02// Hygge Activities
Book Swaps: A book swap can be a great way to share and experience different interests.
Movie Nights: Gather your family for a holiday-themed movie night, complete with popcorn and hot cocoa.
03// Hygge-Inspired Gifts
DIY Gifts: Handmade gifts carry a personal touch and make for a special, hygge-inspired gift.
Gift Comfort: Give the gift of comfort — plush blankets, quality teas, or poetry books can be the perfect hygge gift.
This festive season, give yourself the gift of HYGGE.
The result? A holiday that’s less about stress and more about enjoying the simple, cozy pleasures of life with your loved ones.
Let's take a leaf from the Danes' book and discover the joy of a hygge-filled holiday.
Warmly,
Sarah
Shop my fall must-haves:
FOLLOW @SARAHKVOILES