The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but they can also be a bit stressful. Between shopping for gifts, attending holiday parties, and dealing with family members, it's easy to get overwhelmed. That's why it's important to take some time for yourself and practice self-care.

One of the best ways to do this is through the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah). The word 'hygge' roughly translates to "coziness," and it's all about creating a cozy lifestyle filled with comfortable moments. Here are some tips on how you can add a little holiday hygge into your life and make this season a bit more relaxed and enjoyable.

What is Holiday Hygge?

Holiday hygge is the perfect way to practice self-care during the cold winters. When people think of winter, they usually think of snow and darkness, but hygge turns that on its head by reminding us to focus on what brings us joy. In short, it’s about taking time to savor small moments with family and friends.

Think snuggling around the fireplace together with a hot chocolate in hand or stringing up festive lights to cheer up a cold day. You don’t even have to go out of your way – simply sitting down for a home-cooked meal or taking an afternoon off from work can make all the difference when it comes to marking special occasions throughout the season.

While hygge isn’t just limited to wintertime, there’s something so cozy about creating these kinds of memorable experiences when everything outside is chilly and gray. So why not embrace it? Life is too short not to seize every opportunity for some quality time!

Tips for Creating a Hygge Lifestyle

When it comes to creating a perfect holiday hygge experience, you don’t need to go on a long flight to Scandinavia and book an expensive hotel room. Instead, why not stay at home and create your own cozy winter wonderland? You can start by finding some of your favorite cozy sweaters, scarves, and gloves. Slip into them with a pair of fuzzy socks and you’re guaranteed to maximize your comfort.

Next, grab one (or several!) scented candles to add that special holiday ambiance. Whether it’s the scent of evergreen, candy cane, or cinnamon spice — the right fragrance can help to transform any living space!

Finally, nothing says cozy like hot drinks before a roaring fire. Whip up some hot cocoa and put together an herbal tea bar for those cold wintry nights when all you want is something warm and soothing. With these simple tips, you'll have everything you need to create your own hygge-filled holiday experience in the comfort of your home.

Spend Quality Time with Yourself

During the holidays, sometimes it can seem like you're spinning plates, trying to make everyone else happy while your own needs and desires get put on the back burner. But with a bit of self-care, you can set yourself up for success and create a more enjoyable season for yourself.

Taking small moments such as meditating, going for walks, or reading a book helps reduce stress levels by allowing you to focus on just your mental health. Plus, it can help to make sure that any festive mood is only enhanced rather than extinguished by increased pressure. What better way to incorporate hygge into your life than by starting from within?

Everyone deserves to be in good spirits during the holidays and carving out some me-time helps ensure that happens. Those same few moments of pampering yourself can also promote relaxation by helping you mentally break away from the hustle and bustle of the season. So don't forget to take time for yourself this holiday: it'll be a time well spent!

Embracing Connection

The holiday season is a great time to take notice of the people in our lives and make an effort to appreciate them. After all, cultivating relationships with each other can be just as important as taking care of ourselves, and according to the concept of 'hygge', partaking in cozy activities with loved ones is an easy way to show how much we care.

Quality time spent with friends or family, exchanging genuine kind words, and enjoying good food, can go a long way towards nourishing our bonds with them. So don't miss out on this opportunity. This year, break away from obligations and simply enjoy each other's presence; after all, what better gift could there be?

Hygge Life and the Art of Giving

The holiday season just wouldn't be complete without the tradition of giving. While it can sometimes make finding a special gift for your loved ones a stressful (if delightful) burden, look no further than hygge to discover meaningful gifts that will bring joy and comfort this season.

For family gatherings, why not consider a cozy blanket as a symbol of unity and togetherness? For friends and neighbors, bake a batch or two of warm gingerbread cookies wrapped in string like a festive hug. You can also surprise them with handmade decorations crafted from felt balls or pinecones, each carrying its own special energy.

Bare Home bedding makes a great hygge-inspired gift.  Why not foster a sense of togetherness and community by giving the gift of comfort and warmth.  Here are a few of our favorite gift ideas that are guaranteed to keep their hearts cozy this winter.

Faux Fur Blanket

Available in oversized or as a throw, this sophisticated blanket is the ultimate in luxury.  Shown here in Variegated Mocha.

Flannel Sheet Set

Snuggle up in soft flannel sheets in fun, funky prints.  Shown here in Tartan Plaid.

Sherpa Wearable Blanket

Our latest and greatest offering, this wearable blanket is pure portable coziness. Shown here in Black.

If you want to go beyond physical gifts, dedicate an evening full of games and treats immersed in candlelight and soothing scents - nothing gives more than the experience of laughter shared with those near and dear! With these thoughtful hygge-inspired gift ideas, find joy in the art of giving this holiday season. Whether through knitted scarves or thoughtful conversations, hang on to every moment and embody some serious hygge vibes!

Conclusion

The winter months can be tough, especially if you live in a cold climate – so it’s important to take some time for yourself to relax and recharge. And luckily, there are plenty of hygge-inspired ways to get into the holiday spirit – from decorating your home to trying out new recipes to giving (or receiving) hygge-inspired gifts. If you need some ideas, we’ve got you covered.

So why not start planning your own little celebration of holiday hygge? We hope these tips have inspired you to create your own version – and that you take advantage of all the benefits this special tradition has to offer. From our team at Bare Home, happy holidays!