What is Hygge, and How to Incorporate It Into Your Home as a Mom of Young Children
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a Danish concept that translates loosely to “coziness” but encompasses much more than just being warm and comfortable. It’s about creating a sense of well-being, contentment, and simplicity in your surroundings. As a mom of young children, incorporating hygge into your home can be a powerful way to bring more calm, connection, and joy into your daily life.
Here’s how you can infuse the essence of hygge into your home, making it a sanctuary for both you and your little ones.
What is Hygge?
At its core, hygge is about fostering a cozy atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. It’s not about buying things or redecorating your home. It’s a mindset shift that invites you to focus on comfort, contentment, and togetherness. In Denmark, where winters are long and dark, hygge is especially important to help combat seasonal depression. Hygge is about making your environment a soft place to land. Whether that’s through lighting, textures, or family activities.
For moms, especially those with young children, hygge can be a way to create moments of peace amidst the chaos of parenting. It encourages slowing down, being present, and savoring the little joys, whether it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea or sharing a story with your child under a blanket fort.
How to Create a Hygge Home with Young Children
- Soft, Natural Lighting
Lighting plays a big role in setting a hygge atmosphere. Instead of harsh overhead lights, focus on soft lighting through candles, fairy lights, or warm-toned lamps. Since candles may not be the best option with young children, opt for battery-operated LED candles or salt lamps.
Encourage dimming the lights in the evening as part of your wind-down routine. It helps create a calm and cozy atmosphere that signals to your children that it’s time to relax and get ready for bed.
- Cozy Textiles
One of the hallmarks of hygge is surrounding yourself with soft, comfortable textures. Blankets, pillows, and rugs in natural materials like cotton, wool, or linen can make your home feel inviting and warm. Keep a few soft blankets in your living area for impromptu snuggles or story time on the couch. You could also create a hygge-inspired reading nook with oversized cushions or bean bags.
For babies and toddlers, consider soft play mats or sheepskin rugs for tummy time and crawling, adding to the comfort without sacrificing style.
- Simple, Intentional Décor
When embracing hygge, less is often more. Decluttering and simplifying your home’s décor can create a sense of calm. Stick to neutral tones, natural materials, and items that bring you joy or have sentimental value. For moms, it can be helpful to create a toy rotation system. This not only reduces clutter but also allows your children to appreciate and engage more deeply with the toys they have.
- Slow, Mindful Activities
Hygge is about slowing down and savoring the moment. This can be a challenge with little ones, but it’s possible! Incorporate family activities that foster connection, such as baking together, doing arts and crafts, or going on nature walks. Even simple moments like sharing a warm drink or telling stories before bed can become cherished hygge rituals.
Create small pockets of the day where you and your children can focus on being present. This could be a no-screen-time breakfast where everyone enjoys their food together or a family walk after dinner, appreciating the changing seasons.
- Comfort Food for the Soul
Hygge often includes indulging in comfort food, but it doesn’t have to be unhealthy. Focus on simple, wholesome meals that nourish your family. Involving your children in the cooking process can make it a fun, bonding experience. Think warm soups, homemade bread, or cozy oatmeal breakfasts.
You can also set up a weekly family “baking day,” where you and your little ones whip up treats together. The act of creating something together, and then enjoying it as a family, is a perfect example of hygge.
- Create a Hygge Routine for Yourself
Being a mom is often about caring for everyone else, but hygge is also about caring for yourself. Carve out little moments for personal hygge. Whether it’s five minutes in the morning with your coffee, a peaceful bath after the kids go to bed, or reading a book in a quiet corner, allow yourself time to recharge.
Teach your children about the importance of downtime as well. Create family rituals, such as a quiet time after lunch, where everyone has a chance to relax, read, or nap.
Embrace Imperfection
Lastly, it’s important to remember that hygge is not about perfection. A hygge home is lived-in, warm, and welcoming. It’s okay if your house is messy, or if things don’t go as planned. The heart of hygge is about being present and embracing the beauty in imperfection.
As a mom, incorporating hygge into your life and home can be a soothing, grounding way to enjoy the simple pleasures of motherhood while teaching your children the value of slowing down and cherishing moments of connection.
