Try these Scandinavian-inspired hacks for a happier winter.
In the icy north of Europe, where winter daylight is scarce and nights stretch on and on and on, people approach the dark season with an open-heart. Instead of resisting it, they embrace it. They create warm little pockets of comfort, and lean into the simple pleasures of slow, sensory rituals.
They call this coziness hygge. It’s not about “getting through” the season. It’s about shaping this time of year into something comforting and meaningful. And here in the Pacific Northwest, with our soft rain, long evenings, and candle-worthy twilight, we can adopt this idea as our own.
Time to bring the fire
When the outside world dims, soft indoor light is a beautiful mood-shifter. A few candles on the table or in a window, and a strand of warm lights around a bookshelf can turn an ordinary evening into something comforting.
Check out some of our favorite aromatherapy products here to help get the cozy started.
Hold on to a good thing
A steaming mug of matcha or tea can be as calming as a deep breath. As you inhale the aroma and take that first slow sip—notice how your mind settles, your nerves ease, and the world outside your window takes on a look of wonder.
We love warming up with one of our T&C EveryDay teas - these comforting blends are perfect for winter days and quiet moments.
Go soft.
Winter is a tactile season. Pulling on cozy socks, wrapping up in a fuzzy throw, settling into cushions with something plushy like microwaveable Warmies—these are small things have a big emotional effect. It’s the kind of comfort you can actually feel against your skin, and it adds a new level to your coziness setup.
Bring a little outside in.
A sprig of cedar, an easy-care indoor plant, a vase of winter blooms—tiny bits of nature can shift your inner weathervane. Bright moss, bare branches—bring some indoors and you have control over your environment, rather than the other way around.
Citrus, for a shot of winter sunshine
There’s something almost magical about citrus in winter. Peeling a juicy mandarin, slicing an orange, or spooning into a grapefruit brings a splash of bright color and fragrance to a drizzly gray day. Keep a bowl of citrus on your counter, tuck clementines into lunch bags, or simmer peels with spices for a naturally scented kitchen.
Keep calm and hygge on.
You don’t need a big budget or plane tickets to a tropical island to weather the depths of winter. Just a few cozy touches of light, scent, warmth, softness, and nourishment can help you feel grounded, and actually enjoy your environment every day of the year.