hygge and the 5 senses

Do remember the post I wrote last winter about Hygge? I just read it again and it's really good stuff. I love this concept so much and have been thinking about it a lot this winter. Mostly in trying to be proactive in keeping my happy attitude strong during these cold months.

So far, I'm really enjoying this winter. Probably because it's only been really cold for about two weeks. Also because it hasn't been icy. The last two winters were icy which meant walks outside just weren't worth it. Remember how angry I was when I fell flat in the Walgreens parking lot? I was so mad! But this winter lends itself to safe trips from the car right in to Target.

The other thing is that I am taking notice of my five senses and making sure they're all satisfied. I basically channel my inner second-grader and try to make sure every sense is covered.

Sound: I like to have pandora playing. And usually on some sort of calming station like piano or orchestra, my Pride and Prejudice soundtrack station, Bethel music station or low-key folk. Music makes everything better.
Smell: I try to have a candle burning at all times. I got a big evergreen candle at Menards at the end of the season and I love that one,even thought it's no longer Christmas. I know many who love their essential oil diffusers for this purpose too.
Taste: Hot Tea. All the time. Or a hot coffee. But this is key. To always have a mug of something warm nearby. I am constantly putting my drink back in the microwave for a quick reheat, but having something warm to drink really helps. And I'm also on a muffin kick lately. Muffins are easy, smell good and make for a quick breakfast for the kids. I may start to look like a muffin, but at least I'm happy. Muffins for the win!
Touch: This has more to do with what I'm wearing. I keep it cozy. I'm a stay-at-home mom, afterall. And I just told you I'm eating a lot of muffins...
See: This one is important for me. I need light. So I want my house to have the sunshine pouring in, if it's shining. The fire will do too. And I took instagram off of my phone and logged off of facebook for a while..because seeing what other people are up to never seems to lead to contentment. So more sunshine, less screen time. Less screen time opens up more time reading and doing puzzles, as well.

These things are helping me really love and enjoy this winter. And I am grateful. But we all know the real test is come the end of February and into March and April when the winter starts to drag on. So I'm arming myself with these practical Hygge strategies and have high hopes I'll make it through with a positive attitude.