I started researching it a bit more for this article and thought hang on… if you have one or more lively small humans, is this Hygge thing possible? My vision of lounging around in a nest of blankets surrounding by flicking candles most likely shattered by laying on some abandoned Lego or the dulcet tones of ‘Mummy, can I have a snack!!!!!!’.
Undeterred, I thought if the Danes can do it and they are the happiest people on earth, so can I.
Here are my five ideas for an hour or so of family Hygge time. The point is to have a purposeful laid back time together and be present in the moment. As you’re trying to create an experience, it needs a bit of effort to set the scene. Also try dedicating a set time slot to the activity every week.
1. Create a comfortable place & watch a film
Make a nest on the floor out of all your cushions and throws and get some comfy clothes on. Snuggle up and enjoy a film together. Remember the point of Hygge is to be present in the moment so no phones, no distractions. Stay in your nest together and actually watch the film. We have ideas for family films here.
2. Cook together
Enjoy making a winter meal together like a big batch of soup or a hearty stew. Or if cooking isn’t your thing, whip up some hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows and cream (yum!) and enjoy with one of the other activities listed.
3. Play games together
Playing games is a brilliant way to bond over a shared activity. Set aside an hour or two, get everyone to pick a game and off you go! Remember no distractions (yep no phones!). Put on some gentle music, dim the lights, light the fire if you have one or some candles. LED candles or fairy lights are a brilliant replacement if your children are little.
4. Look through old photos or write a letter
Gather up all your photos albums and look through them, talking about how people have changed. Children love looking at baby photos of themselves or even you as a baby. Whilst talking about memories, why not write a letter together to a relative or a friend you don’t get to see very often?
5. Have a DIY spa day (or hour!)
Make your own face mask, hair mask or exfoliator – children will love the mixing and mess. Try mixing: 1 cup of oats, 6 tablespoons of honey and 6 tablespoons of plain yoghurt or replace the oats for 1 mashed banana. Smear over your faces (avoiding your eyes) and relax for 10 minutes. A nice warm bath might be best for washing it all off afterwards.
Tips to create family Hygge time:
The added bonus of all these ideas is they are very low cost or free. Perfect for this time of year, when it’s sometimes too cold to be out and about all day and it can be hard to think of things to do. Hopefully, you’ll get to relax a little bit too.