If you don’t know what hygge is, now is a great time to learn more about it. In fact, while it can be done year-round, using it in the fall and winter seasons is amazing. Hygge is a type of Danish practice that is built around being cozy and comfortable. It enforces peace and tranquility through activities that make you feel warm and comfortable, no matter what your environment is.
In the fall, it is a popular practice since it is a wonderful feeling to cuddle up under a fuzzy blanket in the evenings, maybe in front of a fire or watching a movie with your family. This also happens to be an excellent way to relieve some of your fall anxiety.
How Hygge Helps with Anxiety
The emotional benefits of hygge are amazing and very diverse. One important benefit you get from this practice is helping to reduce your anxiety. All of the hygge activities are quiet, calming, and peaceful. They can help you to stay relaxed, reduce your stress, and distract your mind from your biggest worries.
Hygge is all about winding down, so you don’t have the added stimulation from a loud television, your cell phone, or computer. In fact, it is highly recommended that you unplug when practicing hygge, except for listening to music or watching something calming.
Whether you struggle with generalized anxiety in the fall, or have panic attacks, practicing hygge is going to help you relax, calm your mind, and hopefully reduce some of those anxious thoughts.
Other Benefits of Hygge for Your Mental Health
Your mental and emotional health can benefit from hygge in many other ways, in addition to reducing your anxiety. It is great for:
- Reducing symptoms related to depression and other mental health disorders
- Relieving your stress
- Improving your mood
- Helping you to have more bonding time with family
- Allowing you to practice mindfulness
- Giving you space for practicing gratitude
- Increasing your self compassion and self-care
Try to think of hygge as a self-care activity in the fall that is also going to help with your anxiety.
Tips for Introducing Hygge in the Fall
Hygge is a very simple concept, where you just want to choose activities that let you reach a state of calm and peace. This might include:
- Turning down the lights and lighting candles.
- Reading a book while lounging on the couch or a comfy chair.
- Sleeping in late to cuddle in bed.
- Enjoying a hot cup of tea, coffee, or cocoa.
- Surrounding yourself by soft blankets and throw pillows.
- Unplugging all devices and staying off social media.
- Turning on your fireplace on cold evenings.
