How to Practice Hygge With the Whole Family

According to Dictionary.com, the Danish word hygge (pronounced Hoo-guh) is “the feeling of coziness and contentment evoked by simple comforts, as being wrapped in a blanket, having good conversations, enjoying food, etc.” Between the holidays and colder weather creeping in, this time of year is ideal for practicing hygge. There have been loads of books published recently all about the concept of hygge, but if you don’t have time to read a book, here are some ways you and your family can participate in some good, old fashioned, Danish hygge.

Get Cozy

Close-up of three sets of feet wearing cozy socks in front of a lit fireplace

Pretty much the whole point of hygge is to be cozy, and luckily there are easy ways to accomplish that.

Warm Blankets

Whether you snuggle down deep with a nice warm blanket or use them to make a fort, blankets are a must for some propper hygge. We love this faux fur one that is ultra soft, warm, and machine washable, or this chunky knit chenille one that comes in massive (bedsized) sizes. For a blanket big enough for the whole family to nestle down into, try the Big Blanket Original Stretch, it’s a ten foot by ten foot blanket made with special temperature regulating fabric so no one is too hot or too cold!

Big Pillows

You need oversized pillows to complete your cozy atmosphere. Use them on the ground (in your fort), or on your couch for extra comfort. These chunky wool knit pillows will provide the perfect surface for lolling around, and these mongolian fur body pillows will become an everyday staple for decor or relaxation.

Warm Slippers

Warm feet are key when it comes to simple comforts. The whole family will love Dearforms matching family slippers which are available in sizes for men, women and children. We also love these sweater fleece slippers from L.L. Bean, which are available for men, women and children.

Cozy Pajamas

You can only reach super comfort if you dress for the occasion, and pajamas are the way to go. Although you may think people look ridiculous, onesies are insanely comfortable, and will really bring the family together while you hunker down for some hygge. You can also go the more traditional route with flannel pajamas for everyone.

Related: The Best Loungewear Sets for Women

Drink Warm Beverages

Person holding a steaming mug in front of a lit fireplace

Settling down with a mug of your favorite hot chocolate or other hot drink with your family usually brings out all the warm and fuzzy feelings. Get mugs that warm your hands, some hot chocolate bombs, tea, or coffee, and sip it together while enjoying each other’s company. Adults can enjoy some mulled wine, either by making your own or buying it ready made.

Watch Movies Together

This may seem like something you typically do as a family, but try to change it up a bit for your hygge—utilize that floor fort, or grab all of the blankets and pillows from the house to sit on the floor while you all sit and watch. Most importantly: put the cell phones and tablets away! This is a good rule of thumb for your entire hygge experience: no screen time! Pick a family favorite film, sit back with your mug of hot chocolate and enjoy!

Cook and/or Bake Together

Home made food is the epitome of togetherness, and if the whole family contributes to a home cooked meal or treat, all the better. Grab a baking kit like this one from I’m The Chef Too, or simply make an old family recipe. For cooking, make comfort foods like homemade mac and cheese, breads, soups, or other pasta dishes. It’s all about comfort foods!

Play Board Games

Nothing says family togetherness like a good board game. Try classics like Monopoly, Scattergories, or Pictionary. You can also try your hand at newer favorites like an Escape Room Game, or Exploding Kittens. Or, just grab a deck of playing cards and teach your kids some of your favorite card games from when you were a kid. No matter what you do, playing games is a great way to turn off the screens and bond together.

Use Candles for Lighting

Tray set up with a warm drink in a mug and two candles, set on a blanket near a window

What is it about candlelight that just screams coziness? Pillar candles will last a long time, and you won’t have to light as many since they are so big. If you like scented candles, Paddywax has a line of hygge-specific scented candles, perfect for not only the lighting, but also setting the scent for your time. If you don’t like lighting candles, try some battery operated candles to set the mood.

Light a Fire in the Fireplace

A crackling fire usually brings out feelings of warmth, togetherness and joy- so lighting one in your fireplace is a must! If you don’t have a fireplace, don’t worry! There are plenty of freestanding electric fireplaces out there. We like the Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace, which you can use with or without heat- if you just want some ambiance.

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