We’ve got an unpopular opinion to share: winter is worth loving. Although it brings with it biting winds, below freezing temperatures, shorter days and greyer skies, there are a lot of reasons to love this special season, too. (For starters, it holds many of our most cherished holidays and memories, right?)
While it’s normal to feel the winter blues, we’re here to help snap you out of it! Keep reading to discover our ideas for hibernating the healthy way and learning to love winter (even if it’s just a little).
Ever heard of a hygge home?
Hygge, a Danish concept that transcends mere words, embodies a unique approach to life centered around coziness, contentment and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures. Pronounced "hoo-gah," this cultural phenomenon emphasizes creating warm and inviting atmospheres, fostering a sense of intimacy and well-being.
Hygge encourages individuals to embrace moments of comfort, whether it be through candlelit dinners, snuggling under a blanket with a good book or sharing laughter with loved ones. It goes beyond mere aesthetics, delving into the emotional experience of finding joy in the mundane and connecting with others in a genuine, unhurried manner.
Hygge is not just a trend; it's a lifestyle that encourages mindfulness and an appreciation for the present, making it a valuable and timeless concept that resonates with people worldwide. A hygge home is one that promotes slowness, coziness and comfort, encouraging cocooning until spring.
How to have a hygge home with Happsy
Hygge-ifying your home involves cultivating an atmosphere of coziness, warmth and contentment … so, what better place to start than with your bed! Here are three reasons why Happsy’s certified organic mattresses and more perfectly embody the hygge spirit.
Oh-so-comfy materials
Happsy mattresses are constructed with Mother Nature’s finest (and comfiest) materials: breathable, soft organic cotton, temperature-regulating organic wool and supportive GOTS-approved latex.
Let’s break that down. Organic cotton is one of the softest, gentlest materials on Earth. It’s also breathable, which, combined with moisture-wicking organic wool, offers superior temperature regulation that keeps you cool in summer and, more pertinently, warm in the winter. And supportive, natural latex means full-body contouring that gives you that “Ahh … just right” feeling every time you lie down.
Healthier for you…
You want a mattress that feels good. Happsy is a mattress that you can feel good about, too. Our certified organic bed-in-a-box is made without chemical flame retardants, harmful VOCs, polyurethane foam and questionable materials.
This aligns with the hygge principle of fostering a healthy and harmonious living space. Toxic chemicals don’t belong in your hygge home!
…and healthier for the planet, too!
Beyond the physical comfort, choosing Happsy is a conscious decision towards sustainable sleep, echoing the hygge value of living in harmony with nature. Our organic mattress materials are farmed without the use of synthetic pesticides or GMOs, and our finishing process skips the chemicals that off-gas into the atmosphere and leach toxins into the soil if your mattress ends up in a landfill one day.
Your comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment. With Happsy, it doesn’t have to.
That said, getting outside is essential!
Once you’ve honed your home, it may be hard to leave your hygge haven – your warm, cozy hygge haven. However, getting outside even in winter is essential for both physical and mental well-being (and, believe it or not, your sleep quality!). Some benefits include:
- Exposure to natural light, even on overcast days, helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boost your mood by by increasing serotonin production.
- Outdoor activities in winter, such as brisk walks or winter sports, provide an opportunity for physical exercise, contributing to overall fitness and cardiovascular health.
- Fresh air can invigorate the senses and alleviate stress, helping individuals cope with the challenges of the season.
- Fostering a connection with the changing seasons can be meditative, promoting a sense of tranquility.
5 More Ways to Enjoy Winter
Winter is going to keep coming every year. Why spend a quarter of your year, every year, wishing the time away? Here are some Happsy tips on how to enjoy winter and beat the winter blues!
1. Embrace the great indoors
Winter provides the perfect excuse to indulge in cozy indoor activities. Set up a warm, inviting space at home with soft blankets, cushions and a hot cup of cocoa. Whether it's increasing your reading load, binging a series you’ve been wanting to watch or even learning a cozy new skill like knitting or crafting, relishing the comfort of your home can be heartwarming during the chilly months.
2. Participate in winter sports
Winter offers unique opportunities for sports and hobbies that aren't available during other seasons. From skiing and snowboarding to skating and sledding, taking up a new activity can provide a sense of achievement and joy. This not only keeps you active but also gives you something to look forward to during the colder months. It also provides an excuse to travel if you live somewhere that doesn’t get enough snow for winter sports!
3. Plan a winter getaway
Continuing on that last thought – sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to get you through the season! Planning a winter getaway to a ski resort or a cozy cabin can provide a break from your routine and allow you to experience winter in a new and exciting way. These getaways can be as adventurous or as relaxing as you prefer.
4. Warm up with comfort food
Cooking and baking are comforting activities all year round, but especially so in the winter! (Soup season anyone? The team here at Happsy is admittedly soup-obsessed!) Warm, comforting meals can be a delightful way to pass a chilly evening indoors, and sharing them with friends or family can make these moments even more special.
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in hearty, comfort food. Experiment with new recipes or savor traditional winter dishes that warm your soul. From hearty soups and stews to festive treats, embracing the culinary delights of the season can add a delightful touch to the winter experience.
5. Feel nostalgic with seasonal festivities
Winter is known for its many season-specific cultural activities and traditions. Whether it's ice skating at a local rink, attending a winter festival or creating your own traditions like weekly hot cocoa nights, these activities can transform the way you view the season. Engaging in winter-specific events not only provides enjoyment but also creates a sense of anticipation and excitement for the season each year.
A note on seasonal depression
Positive mindset aside, we know that seasonal depression is a very real concern for many.
First, know that you’re not alone. The truth is that most of us will experience it to some degree. The reduction in natural sunlight can disrupt circadian rhythms and affect serotonin and melatonin levels, contributing to symptoms such as low energy, moodiness and a general sense of malaise. This can significantly impair daily functioning, strain relationships and diminish overall quality of life.
Understanding the challenges posed by seasonal depression is crucial for society at large to develop effective strategies and support systems for those affected. If your seasonal change in mood feels like more than just “the winter blues,” talk to your doctor.
Winter is time to rest, reflect, hibernate and hygge. Seriously, don’t be so hard on yourself! That cozy feeling of bundling up, sipping something warm and witnessing nature's beauty in its frozen glory can provide a sense of comfort and nostalgia that only comes this time of year.
In the midst of winter's chill, there's a quiet beauty and a sense of renewal as nature takes its annual rest. And remember: winter is a great time for you to reset and renew as well. At Happsy, we believe that starts with quality, restorative sleep. Check out our tips for resetting your sleep this winter!