With the festive season in full swing, there's a charming and cosy way we like to celebrate Christmas that goes beyond the traditional festivities – it's called "hygge." Originating from Denmark, hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a concept that captures the essence of cosiness, togetherness, and well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore how to infuse your Christmas celebrations with the warmth of hygge for a truly Nordic experience.
Tips on creating your own “hygge” Christmas
Create a Cozy Atmosphere: Hygge is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Start by decorating your home with soft lighting, candles, and plush throws. Consider using natural elements like pine cones and branches for a touch of nature. Dim the lights and let the soft glow create a comforting ambiance.
Share Homemade Treats: Nothing says hygge like sharing homemade treats with loved ones. Whether it's traditional Danish pastries, cookies, or mulled wine, the act of preparing and sharing food enhances the sense of togetherness. Gather in the kitchen to bake or cook together, making cherished memories along the way. Here’s the recipe to one of our Christmas favourites, Brunkager, or gingerbread cookies.
Embrace Simple Decorations: Keep your decorations simple and meaningful. Opt for handmade ornaments or items that hold sentimental value. Adorn your space with natural, earthy tones and textures to create a sense of calm. A minimalist approach to decor aligns perfectly with the hygge philosophy. Making Christmas Pleated Hearts are a Danish tradition that is close to our family’s hearts that we’ve started this year at Nuuk. We are inviting our guests and our teams to try making these DIY Christmas Pleated Hearts.
Enjoy Quality Time with Loved Ones: In the spirit of hygge, focus on spending quality time with family and friends. Create a cosy corner for storytelling, board games, or simply unwinding with good conversation. Disconnect from digital devices and savour the joy of being present in the moment.
Outdoor Adventures and Nature Walks: In Denmark, the connection with nature is an integral part of hygge. Consider incorporating outdoor activities into your Christmas celebration. Whether it's a winter walk in the woods or a sleigh ride, embrace the beauty of the season with loved ones.
Crafting and DIY Decor: Engage in crafting activities to create personalized decorations or handmade gifts. This not only adds a special touch to your celebrations but also brings a sense of accomplishment and creativity. Gather around the crafting table and let your imagination flow.
Comfortable Attire: Dress comfortably in soft, warm clothing to fully embrace the hygge spirit. Perhaps instead of the cosy sweaters and warm socks, try some light and comfortable loungewear to suit our warmer weather here in the Philippines and snuggle up with a soft blanket. This will contribute to the overall feeling of relaxation and contentment.
This Christmas, consider infusing your celebrations with the Danish concept of hygge. From creating a cosy atmosphere to sharing homemade treats and embracing simplicity, incorporating hygge into your holiday traditions can bring a sense of warmth, togetherness, and joy. So, light those candles, gather your loved ones, and embark on a Danish Nordic Christmas filled with the magic of hygge.