I hated winter.
Just over a year ago this writer hailing from the perpetually sunny South for most of her adult life moved from San Antonio, Texas, to Wiesbaden in the dead of winter. I arrived on a glum, typically German Tuesday morning, the sky awash with low, heavy clouds. It remained that way for days; with no sunshine or blue sky, I felt oppressed, then depressed. I craved the sun like I crave chocolate -- essential to my being.
I wish I had heard about hygge.
Pronounced HYU-gah, it is the (originally Danish) concept that, loosely translated at its most basic, means "well-being." It means embracing, rather than fighting, the long, dark days of winter. Danes don't let the winter doldrums get them down; in fact, they and other sub-Arctic people like the Swedes and Norwegians, consistently consider themselves some of the happiest people in the world, according to an annual United Nations World Happiness Report.
Hygge is taking advantage of darkness to spend quality time with loved ones, huddled around a fire, talking or playing games. It's a home-cooked meal or a soothing mug of hot chai tea after a brisk walk outside. It's a warm hug or your favorite soft sweatshirt. It's like having Christmas, instead of Boxing Day, in your heart.
In addition to physical comfort, it's a mental state -- a sort of slowing down, appreciating the little things in life and taking time for reflection and introspection. In our constantly connected, wired and fast-paced society, perhaps we all could benefit from a little hygge.
Now, hygge practitioners should not discount the risk of seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a mild seasonal depression that can strike even the sunniest of souls when the days are short and dark. Better believe I have my arsenal of anti-SAD supplies at hand: vitamin D supplements, a light therapy box and a pass to a spa to combat the cold that seeps into my bones. Combined with a hygge mindset, it could be the perfect winter remedy.
So, winter warriors, take a break from cursing the cold. Make a mug of hot chocolate, settle in with a book, write in your diary, cuddle with your furry friend, play Scrabble with your spouse or call your mom. Let hygge warm your heart and soul. With it, we can win at winter.
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