Hygge for the Winter
We’re getting to the start of winter, with shorter days, longer nights, and colder temps. And in Pennsylvania, it can sometimes be a little dreary. That’s where we can learn a thing or two about what the people of Denmark do—after all, they’re in one of the northern-most countries in the world, and they definitely know what it’s like to endure cold and dark winters. At Blind Builders here in Feasterville, we’d like to introduce you to the Danish practice of Hygge and ways you can bring it to your own home. Check them out below!
Read more: Hygge for the WinterUnderstanding Hygge
With bitter cold winters and exceptionally few daylight hours, people in Denmark are enamored with the practice of hygge (pronounced “hyoo-guh”). This practice encourages people to slow their pace and feel connected to the world and the people around them. It helps them “find a healthier work-life balance, to be more in the moment, to build interpersonal relationships, and to turn off digital distractions,” noted Tova Brandt, curator of Danish American culture at the Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa.
“Hygge” Is Similar to “Hug”
You might be surprised to learn that both words come from the same root; however, it makes sense—practicing hygge is like experiencing a hug. If you want to bring the idea of hygge more into your lifestyle, avoid thinking in terms of checkboxes to achieve. Instead think of the things that will most bring you and anyone in your home comfort. For some people that’s ensuring that everyone wears only comfortable clothes—no itchy sweaters or uncompromising jeans. For some people, it’s keeping entertaining simple—no huge piles of food, but instead nosh and a focus on being together. For some people, it’s playing board games that encourage interaction and a sense of nostalgia.
Making the Room Warm
Started as a lifestyle movement, hygge has evolved to encompass a home’s ambience and décor, especially with things that bring warmth, both physical and metaphorical. Use candles—their soft glow is calming and restorative, and they evoke a feeling of being by a cozy fireplace. Bring in comfy throw blankets made of fleece, sherpa fabrics, or warm knits—and don’t be afraid to wrap up in them when you want. Finally, bring nature indoors—aspen or birch logs make great decorative elements, as can wreaths made of pine boughs or dried stems.
Cozy, Inviting Spaces
Practicing hygge is also about taking time for yourself, doing things like reading a book. And if you’re going to do that, why not have a cozy space to enjoy it? Consider using a plush armchair in a corner with a good reading lamp and a side table for your warm cider or cocoa. And be sure to use the right window fashions to feel ensconced. For example, Provenance® Woven Wood Shades bring in nature because they’re made from woven grasses, reeds, and bamboo. Duette® Cellular Shades insulate the window, helping your room stay warm and reducing those pesky winter drafts. Either way, go for what feels the most comfortable. If you’d like more ideas, be sure to speak with a Blind Builders consultant today!
Bringing Hygge Home in in Feasterville
Blind Builders Inc is a service-oriented business specializing in custom blinds, shades, shutters, and motorization solutions. No matter what your window treatment needs may be, we are here to help. We serve residential & commercial customers throughout Bucks and Montgomery County including Newtown, Yardley, Doylestown, and Warrington, PA, and surrounding areas.
