We recently returned from a quick Winter trip to Iceland.
We discovered that the days were short. The wind was sharp. The views were breathtaking.
Between hikes, we explored the nearby towns. We walked along their cobblestone streets and when we needed to warm up, we ducked into sweet little shops that served coffee, chocolates and tea. Mmmmm… these places were toasty and inviting! They were furnished with deep cozy couches that were draped with soft woolen blankets. Sheepskin rugs covered the wide-planked wooden floors and we drank from delicate, antique china cups. The smell of cocoa and cinnamon hung in the air.
It was in one of these wonderful spots that we learned the word, Hygge (pronounced hue-gah).
Hygge is a Scandinavian concept that describes a deep feeling of cozy contentment and overall well-being. With hygge we are told that we can find sanctuary anywhere, by truly savoring the simplest pleasures in life.
When we snuggle into a chair to read a book on a rainy Sunday or sip a cup of hot cocoa by a crackling fire on a snowy day, we are experiencing hygge.
We can also find a sense of hygge in yoga, especially in Hatha, Gentle and Restorative classes.
While I love the pace and groove of a hot power class… there are some days when I crave a slower, more meditative Hatha class. On those days it feels so right to slip into my softest and coziest yoga pants, nestle onto my mat and ease slowly and deliberately into each pose, savoring the beauty of the practice and the rhythm of my breath.
As we look ahead to a snow-filled Colorado week, we are wishing you many warm, cozy hygge-filled moments.
