What is Hygge?
Have you ever heard of hygge? Pronounced “hoo-gah,” this Danish concept became popular on social media around 2017/18 and is all about creating a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. It’s about finding joy in simplicity and comfort—much like our approach to decluttering. By blending hygge with decluttering, you can transform your home into a sanctuary of peace and happiness.
Hygge and Decluttering: A Perfect Pair
Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about making space for what truly matters. When you combine decluttering with hygge, you’re not just clearing out clutter; you’re creating an environment that nurtures and rejuvenates you. This resonates with me much more than decluttering for minimalism.
Create Cozy Spaces
To embrace hygge living using my D.C.L.T.R. framework, you’ll have something hygge-ish in your Dream phase. eg. I dream of a home that is warm and welcoming, cozy and comfortable. Then use that Dream as the filter as you Curate. Start by focusing on creating cozy, comfortable spaces in your home. Think about your favorite reading nook or the corner of your living room where you love to sip tea. Clear out any unnecessary items and bring in elements that add warmth, like soft blankets, cushions, and a good reading lamp.
Tip: Use natural materials like wood and wool to enhance the cozy vibe. A woven basket can be both a stylish storage solution and a hyggelig element.
Simplify Your Surroundings
Hygge encourages simplicity. This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything, but rather that you should keep only what adds value and joy to your life. happy dance
It also doesn’t mean keeping EVERY cozy blanket you have, but it does give you permission to keep a few strewn around the lounge.
My Hygge Moments
In my own life, I’ve created little hygge moments everywhere. Fresh flowers in a crystal vase on my kitchen table, a luxuriously furry heat pack to keep me warm, and candles that add a warm glow to basically every room (there’s one on my desk as I write this!). These items not only add to the aesthetic but also bring a sense of peace and comfort.
Quality Over Quantity
A key principle of hygge is appreciating quality over quantity. This ties in perfectly with decluttering. Instead of filling your home with many inexpensive items, invest in a few high-quality pieces that you love and will use regularly.
Example: I always have fresh-cut flowers and handmade candles from a local artisan. These candles are refilled in my favorite vessels, allowing me to recycle and enjoy them daily without waste.
Mindful Consumption
Hygge is also about being mindful of what you bring into your home. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it will add to your comfort and happiness AND if you have a place for it. If not, it might be better to pass.
Client Success Story: A Hygge Transformation
Recently, a client transformed her living room into a hygge haven. We cleared out cluttered shelves and kept only her favorite books, pulled a few plush cushions out of storage, and introduced a beautiful throw blanket. The result? A space that invited relaxation and joy every time she walked in.
Everyday Luxuries
Hygge isn’t just for special occasions; it’s about finding joy in everyday moments. Use your good china for your morning tea, light a candle while you read, or wrap yourself in a cozy blanket while watching TV. These small acts can turn an ordinary day into something special.
Tip: Incorporate hygge into your daily routine. A cup of loose-leaf tea in a cherished cup, a walk along a waterway, or listening to an audiobook can all bring moments of hygge into your life.
Decluttering with Hygge in Mind
- Start with One Space: Pick a room or area and focus on making it cozy and clutter-free.
- Use the D.C.L.T.R. Method: Follow my framework to declutter effectively. Begin with Dream – envision your ideal space and how it makes you feel. Use this vision as a filter for your Curation process, selecting items that align with your dream. Keep what brings joy and enhances your hygge environment, as inspired by Shannon Ables’ philosophy of mindful living.
- Create a Cozy Atmosphere: Use soft lighting, natural textures, and comfortable furnishings.
- Incorporate Nature: Fresh flowers, plants, and natural materials can enhance the hygge feel.
- Enjoy the Process: Remember, the goal is to create a space where you feel relaxed and happy.
Embrace Hygge in Your Home
By combining hygge with decluttering, you can create a home that is not only clutter-free but also warm, welcoming, and filled with joy. Embrace the hygge philosophy and let it guide you in creating spaces that nurture your soul.
Ready to create your own hygge haven? Share your thoughts and experiences with me! Head to my Bookings page and get your free strategy session today! Let’s make your home a place of comfort and joy.