Embracing Autumn: A Guide to Hygge and Self-Care
Autumn is a season of transformation. As the leaves change colour and fall to the ground, it's a gentle reminder of the impermanence of life. This transitional period offers an opportunity to slow down, embrace the cosiness of your surroundings, and focus on self-care. One concept that encapsulates the essence of autumnal self-care is "hygge." In this article, we will explore what hygge is and give you some top tips on how to infuse more hygge into your life this autumn.
What is Hygge?
Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is a Danish word that doesn't have a direct translation in English. It encompasses a feeling of comfort, cosiness, and contentment. It's about creating an atmosphere that fosters well-being, warmth, and a sense of togetherness. While it might be difficult to pinpoint precisely what hygge is, it's easy to recognise when you experience it.
Hygge is not limited to a particular season, but it finds a natural home in the autumn months. The Danish people, who endure long, dark winters, have mastered the art of infusing their lives with hygge to combat the cold and darkness. It's about finding joy in simple pleasures and savouring the moment.
The word itself is believed to have origins in the Norwegian word "hygge," which means "to comfort" or "to console." Hygge has evolved over the centuries but has always been associated with creating a sense of cosiness and well-being.
During the 20th century, hygge became more of a cultural staple in Denmark. It's deeply ingrained in Danish society, and it's not just a fleeting trend but a way of life. In fact, Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, and many attribute this to their practice of hygge.
Hygge is not just about the physical environment; it's also about the people you share it with. Social connections are highly valued in Danish culture, and spending quality time with loved ones is an integral part of hygge. Whether it's sharing a meal, cosying up by the fire, or having a heartfelt conversation, the presence of loved ones adds depth to the hygge experience.
Creating You Own Hygge
Now that we have a better understanding of hygge and its origins, let's explore how you can infuse more of it into your life this autumn.
Light Candles- Candlelight is an essential element of hygge. The soft, flickering glow creates an intimate and calming atmosphere. Choose scented candles with autumnal fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, or apple spice to enhance the experience.
Discovering the art of crafting your own candles offers not only a fun and soothing activity that allows you to enter a state of flow but also empowers you to concoct custom scent blends evoking the essence of the season.
Start by Creating a Cosy Nook - Designate a space in your home as a hygge nook. It could be a corner of your living room, a window seat, or even a cosy reading chair by the fireplace. Fill this space with soft blankets, plush cushions, and warm lighting. This will become your sanctuary for relaxation and reflection.
Enjoy Comfort Food - Autumn is the perfect season for hearty, comforting meals. Cook or bake your favourite comfort foods, whether it's a warm bowl of soup, freshly baked bread, or apple pie. The process of preparing and sharing these meals can be a deeply hygge experience.
Unplug and Disconnect - Put away your electronic devices and disconnect from the digital world, at least for a little while each day. Hygge encourages being present in the moment, and constant distractions can hinder that. Instead, do things that require your full attention, like reading a book or doing something creative like knitting or drawing.
Embrace Nature - Autumn offers a spectacular display of colours in the natural world. Take walks in the park or through the woods and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season. Collect fallen leaves, pinecones, or acorns to bring a touch of nature into your home as rustic decorations. Take a camera with you and capture the different colours you see. 
Hygge with Loved Ones - Hygge is often best experienced with others. Invite friends or family over for a cosy evening of board games, dinner, or simply sharing a pot of tea and homemade cake. The sense of togetherness and shared warmth is at the heart of hygge.
Practise Mindfulness - Hygge is about savouring the moment and finding joy in the little things. Practising mindfulness can help you appreciate the beauty of autumn even more. Take time each day to meditate, journal, reflect, or simply be grateful for everything this cosy season brings.
Hygge Wardrobe - Wrap yourself in soft, warm layers that make you feel cosy and comfortable. Think jumpers, scarves, and woollen socks. Embrace textures that feel good against your skin and keep you warm during crisp autumn days. 
Warm Beverages - Hot drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate are quintessential hygge beverages. Invest in quality teas and take the time to savour each sip. Consider experimenting with different flavours and blends to find your favourite autumn drink. We highly recommend Bird & Blend tea, Kiss the Hippo coffee pods and the magical Winter Solstice Hot Chocolate by Harth.
There are also meditations and mindfulness practises you can do whilst drinking your warm beverage. It's a lovely way to wake up slowly on a cold morning.
Embrace the Imperfections - Hygge is not about striving for perfection; it's about appreciating life's imperfections. Embrace the little flaws in your home, the quirks in your relationships, and the unpredictability of the weather. These imperfections add character and depth to your hygge experience.
As autumn arrives, bringing with it cooler temperatures and falling leaves, there's no better time to embrace the concept of hygge. By creating a cosy, warm, and inviting atmosphere in your home and prioritising self-care and togetherness, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
Remember that hygge is not a one-time event but a way of life—a practice of finding joy in the everyday moments, no matter how small. So, this autumn, let hygge be your guide to comfort, contentment, and a deeper connection with yourself and those you love.