Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) has become wildly popular in the U.S. in the past few years, but it’s been a way of life in the Netherlands for generations. The Danish term, popularized by The Little Book of Hygge, means coziness. I like to think of it as that warm and fuzzy feeling you get when you’re enjoying life’s simple pleasures. For me, hygge feels like that genuinely happy, butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling I get when I receive a hand written note, spend quality time with my family, have a clean house, or spend the night in, face masking and watching funny movies with my boyfriend.
But let’s be real; how do you hygge in a tropical climate like Hawaii? It’s hard to feel cozy when it’s so humid, but it’s totally possible to experience all the feels of nesting and resting in Hawaii. Here are a few ways you can bring a little hygge into your life:
Host a small dinner with friends and family. Togetherness plays a huge part hygge, so invite a small group of friends over for a potluck-style dinner. Have a glass of wine and enjoy spending time catching up and being with each other.
Have a tech-free weekend. Power down your electronics for the weekend and be present by spending quality time with those closest to you. Spend a relaxing day at the beach; soaking in all that it has to offer without feeling the pressure to share that beautiful sunset.
Take the day to have some “me time.” Take the day off to reenergize your soul. Finish reading that book that’s been sitting on your nightstand, take a candlelight yoga class, or start that new creative project you’ve been brainstorming. Be present and do something for you.
Give in to winter. Forget the sun guilt. Hawaii’s rainy season is the perfect reason to hygge. Cooler days and nights are an opportunity to light a few candles, brew some coffee, and curl up on the couch.
How do you hygge in Hawaii? Share with us in the comments below.
