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Hygge to Survive “COVID-19 Winter”

Many people are comparing the isolation required by this pandemic to feeling snowbound during a blizzard.

Hygge to survive Covid 19 winter
Hygge to gather together when outside is not welcoming.

But as much as we a hoping for a short duration to this necessary isolation, epidemiologists are warning that if the coronavirus impacts Americans the same way it has the Italians and Chinese we could be housebound for months not weeks: we will need Hygge to survive “COVID – 19 winter.”

If that is the case then we need to re-visit the wisdom of Hygge to create homes that are not only cozy but stimulating, during this time of necessary isolation.

Hygge is more than the stereotype of candles, colorful socks and a warm beverage by the fire. It is a generations-old tradition for staying sane during the isolation of long, dark Scandinavian winters.

Revisit the Wisdom of Hygge

1. Enjoy comfort foods.

Hygge to survive covid 19 winter comfort foods
Comfort foods for your Covid 19 Winter

Soups, stews, and crusty breads are essential. Pasta and pizza (make your own or jazz-up a frozen one) soothe the soul. Home-baked (even if not homemade) cookies are extra delicious. Try sheet pan dinners for something easy and healthy. And add chocolate and alcohol (in moderation).

2. Spend time outdoors.

Get outside, unless you are in a shelter-in-place situation or live in a densely populated area. Even in the coldest weather, Scandinavians enjoy winter sports. With “physical distancing” and avoiding crowds, you can walk, bike or hike responsibly. Get some fresh air and sunshine. You will keep the weight off and sleep better.

3. Make time for socializing.

A phone call is better than any text or email. A person’s voice gives you inflections and nuances that tell you how they are feeling. The back-and-forth of a conversation is more natural, swift and effortless than any text. Make a list of friends and family beyond your usual circle and keep in touch by phone.

4. Music

is a major part of Scandinavian life. Every little village has its choir. Singing together bonds people. Listen to, sing along with, or make music. Sing in the shower. Sing outside the shower. Learn how to play an instrument or improve your music skills. Try watching your favorite movie musical as a sing-along event, whether you are with others or alone. Your dog will be your only critic.

5. Make something with your hands.

Hygge to survive covid 19 winter make something with your hands
Make something with your hands.

So much of our daily lives, work and play, involves hitting buttons on computers. Boring! Bake a batch of cookies. Knead some bread – great fun for everyone and a chance to work out frustrations. Knit, sew, finish those DIY projects that have been bugging you. When you are done you will have something you can hold (in your hands) that is evidence of your effort and creativity.

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Even though we are physically separated, we are in this together.

What things do you like to do when you are home? Are you using other Hygge ideas to survive Covid-19 Winter? Share your ideas and stories below in the comments.

Comments

  1. Some people around here are organizing a bear hunt, One puts a teddy bear in a window, and little kids can find the bears. We have just put our best bear in a window, and hope our neighborhood has enough spark to join in, so the bear hunters will have success.