Many of you have probably heard the term hygge (hoo gah) and may be wondering if koselig is the same thing as hygge. They both have Scandinavian origins and are about cozy and comfort, but they are also very different. While hygge promotes and celebrates solitude like warm baths and reading a book, the Norwegian word koselig emphasizes the gathering of friends and family. Game nights, time with others, enjoying an outdoor skate with coworkers, etc.
Koselig is also different in that hygge is more about warmth and spending time in front of a fire or in your cozy home, the idea of koselig embraces outdoor time while being wrapped up in your cozy mittens, scarfs, and jacket. There is a Norwegian saying that I just love that says this...
"There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing."
It is so true! Have you ever gone outside with a lighter coat than you should have and regretted it because you were so cold and then could not warm up for hours. Investing in good outdoor gear will make a person a million times happier in cold weather. Warm boots are like a hug to your feet and you will thank yourself for spending the extra money for a good pair. I am a thrifty person, but there are some things that are worth the money!
Making plans with friends to enjoy a meal, going for a walk outside, building a snowman, spending time indoors and outdoors with others is what koselig is all about. You will feel better about the long months of winter and you will have things to look forward to as the days are shorter and the nights are longer.
Combining hygge and koselig is a great idea during the long winter months. A little time in hygge by enjoying a good book and a cup a hot cocoa and then meeting up with friends or family for a night of games and laughs are just the ticket to reducing the winter blues and enjoying life even in the darkest days of the year.