Daylight Saving Time will end soon on November 6, ushering in the short days and long nights of winter. One of the best ways to combat the winter blahs (and/or blues) is by embracing the Danish concept of contentment, comfort, and connection known as Hygge (pronounced ‘hue-geh’).

Hygge is where mindfulness and minimalism meet. It is the opposite of relentless striving, consumerism, and keeping up with the Joneses. Hygge is not a lifestyle, and it’s not about a design aesthetic—you can’t by a Hygge couch at Ikea, a Hygge-style area rug from Ruggable, or a Hygge nosh box from Harry & David.

So what is Hygge? Simply put, Hygge is the ability to slow down, to not only be present in the moment, but to recognize and enjoy the present as you are experiencing it. Hygge is about being, not having; about appreciating the small things in life that comfort and anchor us. Hygge draws meaning from the fabric of ordinary living.

You can bring Hygge to everyday life by creating simple rituals. Whether it’s brewing a cup of tea in a favorite pottery mug every morning, lighting candles and playing your favorite music while preparing a meal, or curling up under a cozy blanket in front of the fire after dinner, simple rituals allow us to appreciate what we have and help us develop a deep sense of well-being and contentment. Hygge is about seeing domestic life as an art form rather than drudgery to escape from.

View a list of library resources to help you ‘get Hygge wit it’ this winter!