The bustle of summer is now a distant memory, and the high heat and long nights are now giving way to cooler temperatures and shorter days. As winter approaches, many of us begin to seek comforting activities to beat the blues. For many, the cold months can feel isolating, limiting, or even boring, but what if winter could be a season we look forward to rather than fight to resist?
Let us introduce you to the wonderful world of hygge.
What is Hygge?
Hygge (hyoo-guh) is a Danish term that doesn’t have a direct English translation, but “coziness” and “contentment” come close. This term originated from the Norwegian word hyggje, meaning “to comfort.” To Danes, hygge isn’t just a concept—it’s central to Danish identity. In fact, many believe this practice is one of the reasons why Denmark is consistently named one of the happiest countries in the world , so North American countries can learn a thing or two from hygge to create a happier life. In her book "Hygge: A Celebration of Simple Pleasures. Living the Danish Way" ,Charlotte Abrahams examines the impact this has on her home, her health, her relationships and, of course, her happiness.
Which brings us to the fact that Denmark is one of the happiest country in the world. And, Danish parents continue to raise happy, confident, successful kids, year after year! But, how are they doing it? The Danish Way of Parenting will help parents from all walks of life raise the happiest, most well-adjusted kids in the world. There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather is another great read that illustrates how Scandinavian culture could hold the key to raising healthy, resilient, and confident children in America!
A Cozy Lifestyle
Hygge can be found at a candlelit dinner with your closest friends, taking the first bite of a sugar cookie fresh from the oven, taking a long hot bubble bath, or snuggling with your little one wrapped in one of our Scandinavian baby blankets .
Danes believe that winter can be a time to retreat inward and create a safe space at home. By focusing more time and energy on cultivating intimacy and growing relationships with loved ones, we find joy, gratitude, and connection during a time that can otherwise feel secluding and quiet.
While we need an extra reminder to practice coziness during the winter, hygge is a year-round state of mind. You can even enjoy this Scandinavian tradition in the summertime by foraging wildflowers, hosting a solstice brunch, or watching shooting stars by a fire with your family.
A Very Hygge Home
The hygge lifestyle is central to our purpose at Gooselings. We understand well that parenthood is filled with unique—and sometimes overwhelming—stresses. We’re here to help maximize the tender, joyful moments you share with your child, so that you can create lifelong memories together.
Many of us are so used to chaotic overflowing schedules that slowing down and being present can feel like a foreign concept or even downright impossible. This is a great reason to begin incorporating hygge into your life this winter and onwards. We recommend starting by bringing small comforts and traditions into your home, like winding down each day by cuddling up and reading soothing books to your young one.
Each of our products aim to bring a sense of lasting calm to your child’s world. Our super soft and warm hygge baby blankets are made with plush down and sateen covers available in a range of Scandinavian-inspired patterns that look beautiful in any space.
By introducing hygge early, you can cultivate an environment and habits that promote wellbeing, happiness, and love that your child will carry with them for as long as they have their heirloom Baby Duvet —forever.