A (b)log of Natural Resources Info

‹ Back

Hygge- what a weird-looking word!

The term is increasing in popularity here in the US, so maybe you've seen it before. Hygge (pronounced "Hue-gah") is a Danish term that basically means "happiness from enjoying the simple things in life." While a widely-adopted lifestyle in Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, hygge really wasn't a "thing" in the United States until the last few years. The term is most often used in reference to winter and embracing all things cozy (think indoor winter activities), though hygge can actually be practiced all year round. Not really getting it? Here are some of my favorite things that would be considered "hyggelig" ("hygge-like" or "hygge-acceptable").

 

Throw blankets - wrapping yourself in a warm fuzzy fleece blanket while it's cold outside is the epitome of cozy!

 

Candles - candles not only fill your house with a wonderful scent, they are also a simple, traditional way to bring light into your space during the time of year when daylight is shortest.  Traditional winter solstice celebrations often involved candles as a way of welcoming the returning daylight back into our lives.

 

Sweatpants - need I say more?

 

Comfort foods - something about eating your favorite foods warms not just you, but your soul too!  Having your favorite food is a great way to celebrate and bring yourself joy during a long, dark winter.

 

Fires (both indoors and outdoors) - Just like candles, fires are a simple way of embracing light during a time of darkness.  Fires also up the cozy level by bringing warmth to our homes or outdoor spaces.  Finally, something about gathering around a fire with loved ones just makes you feel cozy!

 

Board games/puzzles - both activities offer you a chance to stay warm indoors doing something that allows you to connect with those who you love.  What could be more cozy?

 

A walk outside - Most people associate hygge with indoor activities, but outdoor activities can be hygge-like too.  Remember, hygge refers to embracing the simple things in life. What could be more simple than getting out an experiencing nature?

 

Planning your trip to Denmark already? Hold on: you don't have to travel halfway across the world to experience hygge. The best part is that you can embrace the simple life in your own home or backyard. If you're looking to travel maybe somewhere a little closer to home, TFT has some hyggelig activities to get you in the cozy spirit!

 

Cross-country Ski and Snowshoe ReTREET (February 20-26) - Is there any better way to cope with a northern Wisconsin winter than to embrace it by spending some time out in the snow, enjoying nature's beauty? This week-long adventure is a great way to meet new friends and explore new places! 

 

Dog-friendly Nature Adventure Snowshoe in Sylvania (February 19) - What could be better than snowshoeing through a winter wonderland with your best 4-legged friend? Sylvania wilderness is the perfect place for quiet reflection and viewing one of the last remnants of old-growth forest in our area. For bonus Hygge points, plan on curling up with your pup on the couch after your adventure!

 

Making Maple Syrup (March 26th) - nothing says 'cozy' like a hot stack of pancakes smothered in maple syrup that YOU harvested yourself!! Join us for a morning of learning about the history of this treat, and how to tap trees, boil off the sap, and bottle a finished product all for yourself.  You'll leave knowing how to harvest trees on your own property, and with a sample of syrup you helped produce!

 

Winter can last a long time up here in the Northwoods - by embracing Hygge, you can make that time fly by! Who knows, you may even become a winter-lover and count down the days to that first snow fall!

 

   

 

 

 

Blog written by Kim Feller, Trees For Tomorrow Education Manager