hyg·ge

noun

a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture):” why not follow the Danish example and bring more hygge into your daily life?” · “count on candlelight—almost a requirement for that special hygge experience”

I have always been naturally drawn to a cozy, calm life. Maybe it was the natural calm of being an only child or maybe it was creating calm in the chaos of moving around so much as an Air Force BRAT. Either way, as much as I love people, I also need quite times of cozy intentional community or alone time. Cue soft blankets, candle light, a good book and a mug of hot tea. Or sitting in the peace of my backyard by a fire with my husband and a glass of wine. Or good conversation over a long lunch or coffee date with good friends.

I listened to a podcast recently where they talked about how they have intentionally created their ideal schedule and life as an entrepreneur, which included a long daily walk. She noticed that only older – most likely retired people – were out walking at the same time of day as she did. The question being…why do we wait until we are older and retired to live life in a way that brings us joy? What if we intentionally created time and space for some of that now instead of “when…then.” What would that look like for you? For me?

Give me a calm cozy Hygge life and staycations any day. Every day.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Between work, social commitments, and endless to-do lists, it’s no wonder that many of us feel like we’re constantly racing against the clock. However, amidst the chaos, it’s important to remember the value of being present and finding joy in the little things. One way to cultivate this mindset is by making staycations a regular part of your life.

What exactly is a staycation? It’s a simple concept: instead of jetting off to faraway destinations for vacation, you opt to stay close to home and explore your own city or town. While the idea might seem mundane at first, staycations offer a plethora of benefits that can help you recharge, refocus, and rediscover the beauty of your surroundings.

Here are some tips on how to be more present, enjoy the little things, and make staycations a regular part of your life:

Unplug and Disconnect: In today’s digital age, it’s all too easy to be constantly tethered to our phones, tablets, and laptops. However, to truly be present and enjoy the little things, it’s important to unplug and disconnect from technology, even if just for a little while. Use your staycation as an opportunity to switch off your devices, disconnect from social media, and immerse yourself fully in the present moment.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, without judgment. Incorporate mindfulness into your staycation by taking the time to appreciate the sights, sounds, and sensations around you. Whether you’re strolling through a local park, enjoying a leisurely meal at a neighborhood cafe, or simply lounging at home, make a conscious effort to savor each moment and cultivate gratitude for the little things.
Explore Your Local Area: One of the greatest joys of staycations is the opportunity to explore your own backyard and discover hidden gems that you may have overlooked. Take the time to explore local attractions, parks, museums, and restaurants that you’ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance to. You’ll be amazed at how much there is to see and do right in your own community.
Indulge in Self-Care: Staycations are the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care and pamper yourself. Whether it’s treating yourself to a spa day, indulging in your favorite hobbies, or simply taking a long nap, use your staycation as a time to recharge and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Create Lasting Memories: Lastly, make the most of your staycation by creating lasting memories with loved ones. Whether you’re spending quality time with family, reconnecting with friends, or enjoying a solo adventure, cherish the moments you share together and create memories that you’ll treasure for years to come.

In conclusion, embracing presence, enjoying the little things, and making staycations a regular part of your life can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and happiness. By unplugging, practicing mindfulness, exploring your local area, indulging in self-care, and creating lasting memories, you can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder of everyday life. So why wait? Start planning your next staycation today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and joy right in your own backyard.

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