Embodying a sense of coziness, well-being, and contentment, hygge is a feeling perfectly matched to the holidays.

Pronounced hoo-gah, the word hygge first appeared in Danish writings in the 1800s. It was derived from the Norwegian word meaning “well-being.” Flash forward to the 21st century, and the term is now used to describe an environment that fosters coziness and contentment. 

Here, at Garden Culture, we think there is no better way to find that feeling of well-being and  “hygge” than through Nature. In fact, science says that when you think about your “happy” place, chances are it is somewhere in a natural setting. Researchers believe that exposure to Nature is correlated with the hygge concept of well-being. So, this holiday season, why not introduce a little hygge into your life the natural way? 

Hygge Tip #1: Decorate using Nature

Most of the garden may be enjoying a winter’s nap, but now’s the time to pay attention to the evergreens that have most likely been ignored throughout the spring and summer. Cut a few small branches from the fir tree or a boxwood hedge and arrange them as you would flowers in a vase. Add some battery lights, and you have an excellent holiday arrangement. 

Hygge Tip #2: Celebrate with Herbs

Hygge is about creating a safe, cozy space for rest and rejuvenation, and herbs are partners in that. A hot cup of herbal tea, made from herbs growing on the windowsill or harvested from the garden, adds to the feeling of grounding and helps maintain a connection to the earth, enhancing a sense of hygge. A warm cup of chamomile tea beside a crackling fire, and you are sure to feel relaxed in no time. 

Hygge Tip #3: Set the Mood with Lighting

The soft glow of candlelight creates a cozy vibe. Scented candles infused with lavender or pine scents will set a relaxing mood. The smell of pine, for example, is considered relaxing because it contains terpenes that can have a calming effect, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. 

Why not make a holiday stovetop potpourri out of oranges, lemons, grapefruit, cranberries, rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves? Combine all the ingredients and let it simmer. The fresh, earthy smell will fill the house for hours. 

Hygge Tip #4: Go Real! 

Choose a real Christmas tree. A little potted tree that can find its way back to the garden after the holidays can embody a sense of Nature and fill the room with an earthy pine smell that further enhances that hygge coziness. 

Hygge Tip #5: Stargaze

A Hygge-inspired holiday is also about moments of togetherness and connection. But it doesn’t have to be at a fancy party. Instead, gather a group for a nature walk, head out into the backyard, and stargaze while singing some holiday carols. Grab some warm blankets and cozy up by the fire pit on the deck, while drinking mulled wine, and enjoy the quiet stillness of a winter’s night. 

Carrying this mindset into the new year can nurture well-being long after the decorations are packed away. Simple daily rituals, like stepping outside for morning light, keeping a few cherished houseplants close, or brewing a cup of herbal tea grown from your own garden, help anchor that sense of calm and connection year-round.

Winter can be a challenging season, but Nature still offers small moments of beauty: frost-kissed windows, birds at the feeder, the quiet hush after a snowfall. By noticing and celebrating these details, we create more opportunities for hygge in everyday life.

Remember, hygge is less about styling a space and more about how you feel within it. If it brings you warmth, comfort, or a sense of “home,” it counts.

Wishing you a new year and holiday season filled with natural coziness, simple joys, and plenty of hygge.