March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. As spring approaches, waiting out the cold, gray days can feel challenging. Hygge might be the answer!  

I recently learned about the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), an idea of cozy well-being and contentment. Think: warm lighting, time with friends and family, comfort food, hot drinks, good books and feeling relaxed and safe. 

I immediately fell in love with the idea of hygge, and I started thinking of ways to create a snug and peaceful atmosphere using what we have in our neighborhood. This is what I might do to create an ideal “hygge” day in Del Ray. 

 Being outside enjoying nature, even in the cold weather, is a big element of hygge, so I’d start my morning with a walk, either a nature hike down Mt. Jefferson Trail along Route 1, or a stroll down Mount Vernon Avenue taking in all the shopfronts. I’d definitely stop for a coffee, tea or hot chocolate at a Del Ray coffee shop.

 

I would also visit The Company of Books or Duncan Library. As a bookworm, this is one of my favorite parts of hygge. I would leisurely browse and find a fun read to bring back home, to read preferably by a crackling fire or a flickering candle. I know from experience that this is a wonderful idea: My family and I have tried another Nordic tradition called Jólabókaflóð (Christmas Book Flood). Where we exchanged books and sat by the tree reading and sipping hot chocolate.

 Next, I would bake some sort of treat for afternoon teatime. Baking is an essential part of hygge, and as an (amateur) cook, I understand why. Baking and cooking can be a form of therapy, and I might discover new recipes or practice my tried-and-true favorites.

Time to Socialize – In Person
 For the evening part of my hygge day, I’ll invite neighbors and friends over to enjoy dinner –perhaps comfort food or a fun potluck for March Madness or St. Patrick’s Day. 

From what I can tell, hygge is all about slowing down, creating a warm space, and enjoying time with people I’m close to. As we try to wait patiently for spring, it’s not a bad idea to savor the winter coziness and quiet moments of hygge.