We typically associate Hygge with winter but it is actually something that can be done all year round! There are lots of ways we can hygge in the spring and bring those cozy habits into the warmer weather with us!
“Hygge is about an atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. It is about being with the people we love. A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe, that we are shielded from the world and allow ourselves to let our guard down. You may be having an endless conversation about the small or big things in life – or just be comfortable in each other’s silent company – or simply just be by yourself enjoying a cup of tea.” – The Little Book Of Hygge, Meik Wiking.
I live somewhere with very long, cold winters. Even as I write this in mid-April there’s more than a foot of snow covering my yard! So as soon as the weather is above freezing, I’m very eager to get outside, or enjoy spring activities inside!
If you’re brand new to Hygge, I talked all about creating a Hygge home in this post!
Here are 12 ways to hygge in the spring and summer!
HAVE A BONFIRE / BBQ
Being with people you love is very “Hygge” and what better way to do that in the spring than have a BBQ or bonfire! If you don’t have a backyard, you might be able to find a local park where you can have a fire.
To up the Hygge factor even more, light some non-toxic, beeswax candles or hang string lights in your backyard.
Play soft music in the background to set the mood for a relaxing, Hygge evening.
Don’t forget the snacks! Homemade snacks are very Hygge!
START SEEDS
I have a love/hate relationship with seeds! They’re pretty high maintenance and they need a lot of sun, which my house doesn’t offer. But there’s nothing better than watching life grow when it’s still cold & dreary outside!
Starting seeds is one of my favourite activities in late winter because it reminds me that warmer days are coming!
You don’t have to start a dozen different seeds if you don’t have that much space. Even 1-2 small pots on the windowsill will bring a smile to your face on those early spring days!
HAVE A PICNIC
It doesn’t have to be elaborate, but even make a few sandwiches or cut up fruit & veggies and sit on the grass to eat to enjoy the sunshine and nature.
You can even hike to a beautiful spot, or set up a cozy corner in your backyard complete with twinkling string lights!
GO FOR A NATURE WALK
Going for walks all year round is very hygge, but spring might just be my favourite time of year to walk or hike!
Grab a friend (time with loved ones is very Hygge!) and find a beautiful new trail to walk or hike!
FRESH FLOWERS
“Bringing the outdoors in” is a key factor of Hygge and in the spring that becomes so much easier! Pick up a bouquet of flowers at the grocery store or better yet, find a friend who will share fresh blooms from their yard!
Sometimes I’ll even pick wildflowers from a ditch on the side of the road!
OPEN YOUR WINDOWS
Even when it’s still chilly outside, opening your windows for a few minutes a day is a great way to hygge in the spring! The fresh air is so good for your mental and physical health!
DRINK COFFEE OUTSIDE
I love grabbing a blanket and curling up outside with a hot drink in the sunshine during those early spring days!
Leave your phone inside, and just sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring. I love hearing the birds chirping after a long, cold winter!
ENJOY A FRESH SALAD
In the winter most people crave warm, hearty foods but as the weather warms up salads and fresh fruit become much more popular! Spinach is always the first thing that grows in my garden and there’s nothing more hygge in the spring than eating fresh salad that I’ve grown!
Experiment with different salads by adding fruits, nuts, or fresh herbs!
If salad isn’t your thing, try a fresh fruit platter!
SPRING CLEAN YOUR HOME
I know, cleaning doesn’t sound hygge. But having a clean, tidy, cozy home is VERY hygge. Spring clean those spots that you may have missed throughout the winter and then enjoy a spotless home!
I have a list of 150 things to declutter and clean this spring if you’re looking for inspiration!
SWAP DECOR FOR LIGHTER COLOURS
I’m not necessarily an advocate for buying new decor for the seasons. But I tend to crave change with the change of the seasons. My favourite decor swap is throw pillow cases because they don’t take up a lot of space to store and they can be mixed and matched over and over again throughout the year!
WALK BAREFOOTED ON THE GRASS
I cannot WAIT to walk barefoot in the grass, and you can usually find me doing so while there are still patches of snow on the ground! Connecting to nature is very relaxing and hygge.
VISIT A LOCAL GREENHOUSE
One of my favourite activities year round is visiting greenhouses. In the spring they get large shipments of seedlings, tropicals and everything you could ever want!
Grab a friend and go walk through a local nursery or greenhouse. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, the warmth & sunshine inside a greenhouse is one of my favourite things!
I hope you’re as excited about spring as I am! Personally, I think it’s the most exciting time of year. I love the energy as people come out of their winter hibernation. I love watching trees and plant begin to bloom again. I’m encouraged by the longer days and the warmer temperatures.
I hope these 15 ways to hygge in the spring inspire you to make the most of this beautiful season!
