The holiday season is upon us! A time for gratitude, love, giving, and joyful gatherings with family and friends. It’s a season that invites warmth and connection.

But, let’s face it—this time of year can also feel overwhelming. The joyful anticipation of the holidays can sometimes be overshadowed by stress. Between shopping, cooking, cleaning, and hosting, it’s easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of to-do lists and high expectations. Anyone else starting to feel a bit overwhelmed just thinking about it?

There’s a way to shift our approach to holiday preparation that might just help us find a bit of calm amidst the chaos. And the inspiration comes from Denmark, where the concept of 'hygge' (pronounced hoo-ga) is a way of life.

Hygge isn’t just a trend; it’s a cultural philosophy that encourages savoring life's simple pleasures. It’s about creating an atmosphere of warmth, comfort, and coziness, not just in our homes but in how we approach everyday life. What if we could embrace hygge and infuse it into our holiday preparations?

Can hygge help us craft a serene, stress-free holiday season? Absolutely. Let’s explore how hygge-inspired practices can transform our holidays from frantic to peaceful.

The essence of hygge lies in striking a balance between doing what needs to be done and creating an environment of comfort and warmth. The holidays should reaffirm our connections with loved ones, not become a stress-filled experience of overcomplication and exhaustion.

Let’s break it down into some practical, actionable steps.

01 // Embrace Simplicity

Simplicity is at the heart of hygge. Start by simplifying your holiday to-do list and let go of the need for perfection.

The charm of hygge comes from enjoying life’s simple pleasures. So, say 'no' to tasks and commitments that don’t bring joy or meaning, and focus on the things that truly matter—those that make you feel at peace, happy, and fulfilled.

Maybe this means buying fewer but more meaningful gifts.
Perhaps it’s opting for simpler, less time-consuming meals so you can spend more time savoring moments with family.

Hygge encourages you to cherish simple joys: the rich aroma of a fresh-brewed cup of coffee, the crackle of a fire, or the soft glow of candles on a quiet evening. Let this simplicity guide your holiday season.

02 // Plan Ahead

One of the biggest sources of holiday stress is last-minute scrambling. Instead, take a page from the hygge playbook and plan ahead.

Create lists for meals, gifts, decorations, and tasks.
Set small goals to get everything done well before the holiday rush begins.
Focus on thoughtful preparation, ensuring that the lead-up to the holidays is as enjoyable as the days themselves.

When you’re not rushing, each task can become a pleasure rather than a chore. You might even find joy in the process of gift wrapping or decorating when there’s no looming deadline.

03 // Comfort Food Made Easy

In Denmark, hygge is often associated with the enjoyment of simple, comforting foods. There’s no need to create elaborate feasts that take hours (or days) to prepare. Instead, opt for comforting, easy-to-make meals that nourish both body and soul.

Think slow-cooker meals, one-pot soups, casseroles, and other make-ahead dishes that require little effort but deliver maximum comfort.
Baking cookies or simmering mulled wine not only fills your home with delicious smells but also brings loved ones together for the shared experience of enjoying a treat.

Tip: Preparing these meals in advance will allow you to spend more time with your guests when they arrive, instead of being tied up in the kitchen.

Hygge isn’t just a way of living—it’s a way of being, and this extends to your home. A hygge-inspired home is one that feels warm, inviting, and restful.

01 // Cozy Ambience

Creating a cozy atmosphere is key. Think soft lighting, plush blankets, and the glow of candles. Candles are especially central to the hygge experience, as they create a sense of calm and warmth.

When decorating your home for the holidays, prioritize items that bring comfort, like wool throws, knit pillows, and soft rugs.
Add string lights or dimmable lamps to create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for gathering with loved ones.

02 // Incorporate Natural Elements

Hygge also encourages a connection to nature. Integrating natural elements into your décor is a great way to bring the outdoors inside, fostering a sense of tranquility and simplicity.

Think evergreen boughs, pine cones, and wooden ornaments. Not only do these touches look beautiful, but they also remind us of the beauty in simplicity.

03 // Create Comfort Corners

Take a moment to create little hygge nooks around your home—places where you and your guests can curl up with a blanket, sip hot chocolate, or enjoy quiet conversations.

A reading nook with a comfy chair, a pile of blankets, and soft lighting can become the perfect space for a moment of solitude or togetherness.

At its core, the holiday season is about connection. Hygge reminds us to slow down and appreciate these connections, focusing on moments of togetherness rather than the hustle of holiday preparation.

01 // Enjoy Shared Activities

Shared activities—whether decorating the tree, baking holiday cookies, or playing simple games outdoors—can create lasting memories and foster deeper bonds.

Try planning low-pressure group activities that are more about being together than achieving perfection.

02 // Slow Down

In the chaos of the season, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush. Hygge encourages us to pause, breathe, and remain present in the moment.

Take breaks during the day to savor a cup of tea or go for a slow walk outside.
When spending time with family or friends, focus on being fully present.

If you’re looking to bring even more hygge into your holiday season, here are a few additional ideas.

01 // Hygge Holiday Decor

Create an Inviting Entryway: Greet guests with a warm holiday wreath, a cozy doormat, and a few lanterns.
Decorate with Warm Textiles: Blankets, flannel sheets, and plush towels don’t just provide comfort—they can also become part of your home’s decor.

02 // Hygge Activities

Book Swaps: Share your favorite stories with friends and family through a cozy book swap.
Movie Nights: Set up a family movie night, complete with holiday films, popcorn, and hot cocoa, encouraging everyone to relax together.

03 // Hygge-Inspired Gifts

DIY Gifts: Handmade gifts can carry a personal, thoughtful touch. Consider knitting scarves, baking treats, or crafting homemade candles.
Gift Comfort: Give the gift of hygge itself—plush blankets, cozy socks, scented candles, or a soothing blend of teas make for the perfect comfort-themed presents.

**This festive season, give yourself the gift of HYGGE.**

This holiday season, why not give yourself the gift of hygge? Embrace simplicity, savor the little moments, and focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The result? A holiday that’s not about stress and perfection, but about celebrating life’s simple, cozy pleasures with those you love.

Let’s take a page from the Danish book and experience the joy of a hygge-filled holiday season.

Warmly,

Sarah