Some people love being at home and need a gentle push, or convincing shove, to go out and about (that’s me!), and others find many good reasons to leave home and are always out and about. One way isn’t better than the other – we’re created to be different. The general terms used to describe these differences of human psychology are introversion and extraversion. There are some in-depth definitions for these personality differences, but the simple way I like to refer to them is how we are energized. Do you need some alone time to feel refreshed and alive or do you feel energized and excited by being around other people?
While home life may be the focus of most lives in recent months, introvert or not, knowing how to be ‘energized’ while at home is ideal to still be true to your personality and that of any children you may have around the house. As a proud introvert, I have built my life around my home. I work from home for a homeschooling magazine and run a home-based business. I educate my boys at home. We raise poultry and grow food indoors and out. My husband does leave the house for work (distance makes the heart grow fonder), but he runs his own business which is partly done at home. As the saying goes, home is where the heart is, so whatever your personality type, there are ways to make your home a comfy cozy place that energizes every member of the family.
The Hygge Lifestyle
When at home, do what the Danes do – hygge it up! If you’re not familiar with the term hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) it means to create a cozy atmosphere and enjoy the good (which usually means simple) things in life and leisurely spend time with others you love or like. The ‘hygge’ approach to life has been gaining in popularity around the world in recent years, but the folks in Denmark have made this a part of their culture since the end of the 18th Century. It is the focus of their home life, but hygge is expressed in their public places as well – inside and out.
With the long, dark winters in Denmark people deeply embrace hygge and fight the darkness by focusing on whatever makes them feel comfy, cozy and calm. Since those Danes consistently have their cities ranked in the top 3 for the happiest people in the world (www.worldhappiness.report ), they just may be the right ones to look at for tips on living the good life.
With a simple internet search, you’ll be able to get lots of ideas to incorporate the Danish art of happiness into your life. There are also a number of books that you can read to get filled with options for simple living, hygge-style. But, read on to get a quick overview to making your home a little sweeter and special.
Ideas for Your Home Sweet Home
Candles set a mood that appeals to many people partly from the look and partly from the scent. I was recently given one of those Yankee Candle jars and was surprised at how much we all enjoyed burning that every night. I have since bought a couple of other candles from different makers and am now seeing the benefit of this pleasant practice that I never really enjoyed in the past. Quality candles are the way to go; use candles with natural and organic ingredients for the best hygge benefits.
Lamps could be just the ambience you’ll appreciate in your home. Not so much for the practical need for light, but for the cozy factor. Pick a lamp style that reflects your personality and use low wattage bulbs that resemble an open flame or sunset. Even those hygge-conscious Danes on a tight budget will spend big money on designer lamps to get the one that speaks to their personal style.
Houseplants do more than look pretty, although that’s still a big factor in picking the ones you adorn your home with. For me, nurturing nature is one of my favourite pastimes, so I have a number of houseplants, but I’m also currently growing microgreens, sprouts, leafy greens, herbs and apple trees indoors. You may not be nurtured with as much indoor growing as me but having the right indoor plants for you will make for a cozier atmosphere and cleaner air! It’s also great hands-on learning for any of those children in your home to see photosynthesis in action (ok there’s not much action see, but we know it’s happening!).
Soften and simplify your space. There is a whole world of possibilities for this one and it’s the one I’m regularly changing up to take a positive spin on the season, life circumstances and personal mood. Soften by adding different textures to your décor; area rugs, soft plush throws, curtains, wall hangings that appeal to you and your family’s style! I love making things myself to add to my home with fabric and more recently with wood. Having a creative project to do is another fine way to love your home time. Simplify by decluttering, disconnecting from electronics and enjoying simple activities on your own and with those you love.
