I spoke with my friend and author of The Danish Way of Parenting , Jessica Joelle Alexander , to discuss the popular Danish tradition of hygge and how it relates to the holiday season . Here are 5 very “ hygglige ” ideas to transform this usual stressful time into a satisfying , peaceful experience .
1 . Visit a tree farm and cut down your tree – as a family ! Alexander tells me that Danes are very into real and natural products and that plastic is seen as quite an American thing . She says , “ Many families go to literally chop it down together from a farm ! Some families grow it themselves each year and chop it down together . This is a team effort to chop it down . Otherwise they buy it from a market . It is extremely rare to have a plastic tree .”
I can see how this annual tradition can add to the feel of togetherness and joy . Any time we honor a family tradition , we strengthen the family unit and connect heart to heart . If you prefer plastic trees , no problem ! You can still create a hygglige tradition by putting on Christmas music , baking cookies , and decorating it together .
2 . Light a candle . Alexander says , “ There are a lot of candles happening at Christmas everywhere from morning to night . This is really the quintessential look and feel of hygge at Christmas . They are literally burning them at all times of day in houses and cafes . Most families have a calendar candle or a big candle that burns down all day for one day and is measured on the side . The candle is typically blown out at breakfast by one of the kids to symbolize one day has passed closer to Christmas . This is really cozy .”
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