How to Hygge: A Lesson in Self Care

BONUS FREEBIE: Want even more ways to stay organized, productive and less stressed? Click here to get access to my List-Making Starter Kit. It will boost your efficiency and get you back to doing more of the things you love.

I love rules.

Clear cut, simply defined rules.

I also love a good mantra. You know a few words to remind you of your goal or purpose.

These two things are most perfectly combined in Marie Kondo’s idea of realizing if an item in your home sparks joy for you.

It’s a simple yes/no question that evokes an emotional response.

I’m doing research for my new book, Listful Living: A List-Making Journey to a Less Stressed You, and I came across the idea of hygge, which I quickly became obsessed with. I first heard of it from my media-training client Melissa Coleman, who is the author of The Minimalist Kitchen.

What is Hygge?

It’s a Danish word pronounced “hoo-ga,” which is broadly defined as a feeling of cozy contentment.

Hygge is the feeling you get when you take the first sip of freshly brewed tea or are reading a book in front of a fire.

So how can you bring more hygge into your life?

I know not everyone shares my passion for tea or has a fireplace in their living room. (I wish I did but I live in Manhattan – not too many fireplaces around!)

But there are still ways you can hygge.

Most people understand the cozy part, it’s the contentment that’s not easy.

Because you can’t have a relaxing bath when your phone is buzzing every five minutes.

To me hygge doesn’t just mean finding comforting activities, but also having a chance to switch off and relax.

That being said, hygge doesn’t have to be a solo activity.

Sharing your cozy contentment with someone else is often the best way! It’s not all winter activities either, picnics in the park bring the same feeling of hygge.

Hygge is not quite as clear cut as Marie Kondo’s spark joy sentiment.

It has more of a “go with the flow” vibe, which is a little out of my comfort zone to be honest.

However in 2019, I’m trying to be a little more laid back so I’m starting with a bit of hygge.

Every Sunday I make a BLT sandwich and watch travel shows like Rick Steve’s Europe with my husband Jay. I love being transported to different places and imagining our travels there. Plus I love bacon so it’s a win win.

It’s a small thing but I look forward to it every week and it brings a bit of hygge into my weekend.

I asked my friends on Facebook how they embrace the idea of hygge and these were my favorite responses:

“Bubble bath and a mid-day nap!”

“After a stressful day, I like to garden or try new recipes.”

“I like to drink tea and read until I can’t stand the smell of my pajamas anymore.”

Comment below with what activities make you feel cozy and happy and we’ll hygge together!

Also -there will be much more about hygge and other ways to optimize your life and be less stressed my new book Listful Living. I’d be honored if you pre-ordered a copy now. And if you do, I’m going to send you some fun pre-order bonuses when they’re ready. All you have to do is forward your receipt to my assistant at tabitha@paularizzo.com

BONUS FREEBIE: Want even more ways to stay organized, productive and less stressed? Click here to get access to my List-Making Starter Kit. It will boost your efficiency and get you back to doing more of the things you love.