Embracing Winter

More Than Just Getting Through—

Hygge: The Art of Embracing Winter

In the depths of winter, when the days are short and the nights stretch long, the Danish and Norwegian concept of hygge (“hooga”) offers a beautiful reminder: joy and coziness can be cultivated, even in the darkest of seasons.

At its core, hygge is about creating warmth—both physically and emotionally. It’s about slowing down, embracing simple pleasures, and finding comfort in togetherness. In fact, Denmark is consistently ranked among the happiest countries in the world, and many attribute this to the way they prioritize presence, gratitude, and connection in their daily lives.

The origins of hygge trace back to the 16th-century Norwegian word hugga, meaning “to comfort” or “well-being,” and even further to the Old Norse word hugr, which translates to “mind” or “heart.” What started as a way to endure the long, harsh Nordic winters has now become a way of life — an intentional pursuit of everyday happiness.

Hygge is not about extravagance. It’s not about waiting for the next big thing, the next weekend, or the next vacation. It’s about appreciating exactly where you are, right now.

The 10 principles of hygge: 

• Atmosphere – Soft lighting, candles, a warm and inviting space.

• Presence – Being in the moment, without distractions.

• Pleasure – Enjoying life’s small indulgences, like a piece of chocolate or a warm cup of tea.

• Equality – Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

• Gratitude – Appreciating the little things.

• Harmony – A space free of competition, where everyone can relax.

• Comfort – Soft blankets, warm socks, the little things that make us feel safe.

• Truce – Setting aside disagreements and embracing peace.

• Togetherness – Spending time with loved ones, sharing meals and conversation.

• Shelter – Creating a safe, cozy retreat from the outside world.

Hygge isn’t about following a strict formula — it’s about discovering what makes you feel at ease. What does your perfect night in look like?

Maybe it’s a homemade soup, your favorite comfort movie, and a cozy blanket. Or maybe it’s a slow evening with friends, sharing stories over a warm meal. There’s no right or wrong way to embrace hygge; only the intention of cultivating comfort and joy in the everyday.

Hygge & Community: Finding Your Third Place

One of the most beautiful aspects of hygge is its focus on togetherness. In Europe, it’s common to gather with friends over drinks after work, not just on weekends but daily. It’s about weaving connection into everyday life rather than reserving it for special occasions.

This reminds us of the importance of having a third place, a space outside of home and work where you can simply be and connect with others. For some, it’s a café where familiar faces gather each morning, creating an unspoken community. For others, it might be a yoga studio, a book club, or a local park. Wherever it is, these places remind us that humans thrive in connection. We aren’t meant to move through life alone.

So light some candles, find your third place, embrace the stillness, and lean into the season of slowing down. Winter is not just something to get through - it’s an opportunity to nurture yourself and those around you.

At Siela, we believe in cultivating this sense of community. We want to create space for open conversations, shared experiences, and the inspiration to live a life you truly love. Whether it’s through storytelling, connection, or simply embracing the moment—we’re here for it. And we hope you are, too.

Let’s continue the conversation. What does hygge mean to you? How do you create warmth and joy in the midst of winter? What do you want to hear about next? Share your thoughts - we’d love to hear from you. 

With warmth,

Siela Co.