Eight ways to create a healthy hygge home this autumn

Nov 8

Hygge is a Danish word meaning cosiness, contentment and wellbeing. Something which I strive to have all year round in my home environment. But at this time of year when the nights draw in and the weather gets cooler, it feels all the more prominent. Here are eight ways I’m making my new home more hygge for Autumn and Winter and how you can too.

Light a non-toxic aromatherapy candle - candles give off a warm cosy glow in any room and scented candles can add another level of relaxation. But did you know not all candles are created equal? Most candles are made with paraffin wax - which uses petroleum (a by-product of the gas industry). Research has shown that burning paraffin wax releases chemicals including formaldehyde and petroleum into the air. While the evidence suggests the levels released are not enough to cause damage to human health, my view is that if you like burning candles as frequently as we do - and there are so many natural alternatives such as soy and beeswax - why would you take that risk if you don’t have to?

Artificial scents used in candles can also be potentially dangerous particularly for people who have allergies and asthma so try to choose products that use natural aromatherapy oils instead.
Bake some healthy treats - this time of year most of us crave more comfort food, it’s a natural part of the hibernation process. But that doesn’t have to mean simply diving into mass-produced baked goods. Get baking and have fun trying some healthier recipes like these cranberry and walnut cookies.
Get yourself a big fluffy, cosy blanket in your favourite colour - for me, there is nothing cosier than snuggling up under a big blanket or duvet. I love having blankets to hand in every room to add a layer of texture and decoration but also so I can easily warm myself up if I’m feeling chilly or want that feeling of comfort which only a heavy blanket or hug can truly bring. Colour has also been shown to impact our emotions so go for a blanket texture and colour which bring you real joy for that added wellbeing factor.
Bring nature inside - as the weather gets colder and the days become shorter it can be harder to get out and appreciate nature, so why not bring it inside to you? Whether that’s with flowers, indoor plants, or any natural materials you can use around your home in other ways - wooden chairs, wool throws, cotton cushions, linen napkins…add texture and natural elements wherever you can to help you feel closer to nature.
Take a moment to be mindful every day - Hygge isn’t just about those winter warmers and cosy factors, it’s about wellbeing too. Mindfulness and being present in the moment is one of the ultimate ways to calm the mind, lower stress levels and promote positive feelings of wellbeing. What’s more, it can be far easier to incorporate into your every day than you may think. Simply pick one activity you do every day - it might be brushing your teeth or having a shower or making a cup of tea, and do it mindfully. That means trying to make sure you’re present in the moment rather than thinking about one thing while doing another. Focusing on your senses can help with this so concentrate on what you can see, hear, feel, taste and smell to help you be more present.
Declutter - I always think it’s far easier to feel calm in a space that is organised. So if your space is chaotic with things out of place, mess, clutter and dirt, take some time to declutter, tidy, clean and generally get your space in order so it’s a relaxing place where you want to spend time.
Make a warming drink - Warming drinks go a long way towards making us feel cosy and comforted - there’s a reason we Brits will always offer someone a cup of tea during times of stress! Try to avoid too many caffeinated beverages across a day and instead opt for herbal teas or try this anti-inflammatory Turmeric latte or Chocolate Chai Latte.
Get together with loved ones - Spending time with the people who make your heart smile will undoubtedly boost your sense of happiness and wellbeing. Research shows that loneliness is a big risk factor for dementia and cognitive decline and time with loved ones boosts both mental and physical health. So whether you get together in real life or decide to opt for an online meetup, invest some time in your relationships this season and you’ll reap the benefits too.