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Writer's pictureAnn Clark, RN

Find Comfort and Joy in the Cold: Cozy Up With Hygge


Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is a Danish concept that refers to creating a warm and cozy atmosphere, typically through simple pleasures and mindfulness. It can be especially helpful in beating the winter blues because it encourages people to focus on the present moment and find joy in simple things. This can help to alleviate feelings of loneliness, boredom, and sadness that can be common during the colder, darker months of the year.


There are many ways to incorporate hygge into your life to help beat the winter blues. Some ideas include:

  • Setting aside time each day to relax and unwind, whether it's reading a book, listening to music, or chatting with friends and family

  • Creating a warm and inviting space in your home, with comfortable furniture, soft lighting, and cozy blankets and pillows

  • Enjoying warm, nourishing meals and drinks, such as hot cocoa, soup, or tea

  • Taking part in activities that bring you joy and help you feel connected to others, such as board games, craft projects, or outdoor walks

  • Practicing mindfulness and gratitude, focusing on the good things in your life and savoring the present moment.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. It is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including changes in the amount of sunlight exposure, changes in the body's levels of certain chemicals (such as serotonin and melatonin), and genetic predisposition.


While hygge alone may not be a cure for SAD, incorporating elements of hygge into your life can potentially help to alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD. By creating a warm and cozy atmosphere and focusing on simple pleasures and mindfulness, hygge can help to improve your overall sense of well-being and reduce feelings of loneliness, boredom, and sadness. In addition, hygge can help to increase feelings of connection and social support, which can be important factors in managing depression.


If you are experiencing symptoms of SAD, it is important to seek treatment from a healthcare professional. This may include therapy, medication, and/or light therapy (exposure to artificial light to simulate sunlight). Incorporating hygge practices into your daily routine can be a helpful complement to other forms of treatment, but it is not a substitute for professional care.


Overall, the key to hygge is to find simple ways to bring comfort, joy, and connection into your life, especially during the colder, darker months of the year.

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