This year, forget about those New Year’s resolutions you’re just going to abandon by mid-February. Aim for something long-lasting, like a lifestyle change that won’t only chase away the winter blues, but will keep you cozy year-round. Aim for hygge!
Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word. And while there’s no direct translation to English, it means “an elevated state of coziness.” It’s all about spending time with family and friends in comfortable, cozy surroundings. That sounds like a great way to start the new year!
1. Get rid of clutter
Before you can start getting cozy, clear out the junk and clutter in your home. While it’s the most painful part, you need to go through your belongings and decide what can stay and what needs to go. If your home is full of antiques or family heirlooms you’re fond of but don’t want to see every day, just put them in storage. You don’t need to get rid of everything; you just want to eliminate clutter and distractions.
2. Rearrange your house
Without all the clutter, moving and rearranging your living space is easier than ever. Instead of the TV being the focal point of your family room, center things around a fireplace or coffee table. With a table as the center of the room, you’ll have plenty of space to lay out food, games, or puzzles for people to enjoy. It’s all about spending time with family and friends, so if you make your space the coziest it can be, everyone will want to come over!
3. Invest in comfort
While hygge isn’t about buying a bunch of expensive new decor and belongings, investing in a comfy new couch or a stack of plush blankets and pillows is never a bad idea. A new set of soft bath towels or cotton sheets is also encouraged. There’s nothing like spending a Saturday morning in bed with a cup of coffee and a good book, after all. This is also the time to throw on your comfiest sweatpants or sweater.
4. Focus on lighting
During the cold, dark winter months, warm light is a savior, especially in the PNW. The dreary, rainy days of January and February can drag on, and there’s no better way to make your living space comfortable and cozy than with some nice lighting. Say goodbye to harsh, bright white lights, and focus on those that give off a soft, warm glow. Consider hanging a strand of twinkle lights, too. Just because the December holiday season is over, that doesn’t mean you need to pack up all your twinkly strands!
5. Add warmth with candles
Candles make all the difference, especially if you don’t have a fireplace. Search for candles with a gentle, mild scent. That way, you can leave them lit longer without adding too much fragrance to your home. If your dorm doesn’t allow open flames, consider getting some electric candles instead. You could also get an essential oil or scent diffuser to mimic the scent of your favorite candles.
6. Stock up on food
Taking the time to make delicious food (and not rely on takeout) is another way to add coziness to your life this winter. If you have a family recipe you absolutely love or you’ve been dying to try your hand at baking, get in the kitchen! Also, make sure you have tea and hot cocoa on hand in case you or your friends fancy a warm drink. Comfort food is key to hygge, so make sure you have plenty to go around.
7. Invite your family and friends
When it comes to hygge, it’s all about the people. Now that your space is cozy and comfortable, it’s time to share it with the people you love. Invite your tribe over for some drinks, games, a movie, or even a dinner party. Whatever you like to do, do it with the people you enjoy most. With your comfortable surroundings, everyone will be excited to hygge with you in the new year.
With these tips, your new year will be off to a cozy and comfortable start. But if you need some extra space when decluttering your house, start by finding a storage unit in Oregon or Washington. Let us help you hygge!