As the seasons are changing, and we are entering the colder months of the year here in the UK, it is quite common to start experiencing some changes in our mood: there is even a scientific term to it: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It is like seasonal depression, leaving a large number of us feeling down and unmotivated during the darker months. However, how can one make it better? Is there such a thing as a cure to this unwelcome visitor in our heads? The Danish seem to have the answer: it is called it Hygge. The term has become extremely popular around five years ago in the Western World and was even named the ‘word of the year’ by Oxford Dictionary in 2016, but it is not as widely spoken about anymore. So, let’s help jog our memory and have a look at how we can use Hygge to help us combat seasonal depression and bring some joy into our lives.
What is Hygge and how do you pronounce it?
It is a Danish term defining cosiness and finding joy in the little things in life. The pronunciation is not what you would think as an English speaker: it is pronounced like ‘Hoo-gah’. Hygge can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adjective. It is enjoying a mulled wine by a fireplace with some friends, eating warm comforting foods like porridge for breakfast, or a warm soup for lunch, spending your evenings in candlelight with all the artificial light switched off, it is cosy woollen socks, or even warmly greeting strangers on the street. See the pattern here? Even reading these words will make one feel warmer inside. It is something that brings people joy and ease, and winter is considered the most hyggelike season.
How can you boost your mood using Hygge?
As Danes are considered the happiest nation in the world, we could learn a thing or two and adapt to the simpler, less stressful mindset. Oh, and let’s not forget the hundreds of candles that go with that mindset. Here are some hyggelike tips you can do today.
· Create a cosier environment in your home. As mentioned before, lots of candles is a must to create a cosy home. Even the cheap tealights will suffice. Your home will be immediately transformed into an inviting, warmer space. Obviously, observe fire safety, however, going all out with some warm flickering light will make anyone feel cosier.
· Focus on nothing but personal comfort.
With spending a lot more time at home, put on your most comfortable clothes, no matter what they look like. It is easy to beat yourself up for your appearance and feel bad about it while scrolling through Instagram, comparing yourself to models and influencers. However, Hygge is all about comfort and wearing those sweatpants you would never wear in public. The photoshopped images of celebrities and Instagram models is an unrealistic expectation and comparison we put on ourselves, and Hygge teaches us to accept ourselves for who we are.
· Baked goods all the way. Do not just bake some pastries or cupcakes for yourself, but also share it with your loved ones. After all, everything in life is better when shared and homemade. This will not only create some bonding quality time, but also make your heart full while making others smile. It is amazing how sometimes a simple cinnamon roll can make another person’s day.
· Enjoy the moment. This might be an obvious one, but too many of us are too rushed nowadays and take simple things like sharing a meal with a friend or enjoying a cup of coffee for granted. When was the last time you really savoured every single sip of that coffee, with no distractions like a TV or a phone? Have a real think about it, and why not put your phone away the next time you are sipping on a hot beverage.
· Take up those relaxing activities.Yes, you heard correctly: Netflix and chill is on the table. As long as you are present and feel content, any activity that brings you joy at home is up for grabs: so just pick up your favourite book, have a sip of tea and relax, snuggling up with your blanket and cosy socks. Who said self-care has to be difficult?!
To sum up, seasonal depression is a real condition many people suffer from during the colder months. Adapting some of the Hygge mindset could be an effective way to feel cosier, more connected and not putting too much pressure on oneself, even if it is only being more present and not taking the simple things for granted, which is often easily done in our rushed, overworked society. So, my friend, start today by slowing down, putting on those cosy socks, putting your phone down and share some homemade pastries with a friend or a family member. Life does not have to be so hard if only we just let it flow with the seasons, right?
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