Can ‘Hygge’ help you beat the winter blues?

Since returning from Kenya, I feel like the UK climate has hit me harder than usual. I left at the tail end of summer and have returned feeling like I have been plunged into dark, grey, wet days! My instinct is to seek warmth and comfort, and my mind goes towards embracing the idea of ‘Hygge’.

And I know it’s not just me experiencing these feelings. As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many of us notice a shift in mood, energy, and even physical comfort. Winter can bring on feelings of sluggishness, stiffness, or sadness, sometimes called the “winter blues.” For some, this seasonal dip can progress into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affecting both emotional and physical wellbeing. But there’s a simple Danish concept that can help us navigate these darker months: Hygge.

Hygge is more than cosy candles and soft blankets - It’s about embracing the changing seasons rather than resisting them, creating a sense of safety and calm that nurtures both mind and body. This philosophy can be especially powerful in supporting health through winter’s challenges.

Supporting Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Reduced daylight affects our circadian rhythms and serotonin levels, influencing sleep, mood, and motivation. By consciously slowing down, lighting a candle, sipping a warm drink, or spending time with loved ones, we can help the nervous system shift from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.” This activates the parasympathetic response, lowering stress hormones and improving emotional resilience.

Even small rituals, such as reading by the fire or cooking a nourishing meal can support mood regulation and reduce anxiety or low mood.

Easing Physical Tension and Aches
Cold temperatures and low-pressure weather systems often leads to increased muscle stiffness and joint aches. Stretching under a warm blanket, gentle yoga, or a walk outdoors to catch natural light combines warmth, relaxation, and gentle physical activity which helps improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and release endorphins, which naturally relieves pain.

Whilst in Kenya I had the delight of drinking lots of ‘African Tea’. It’s a gorgeous hug in a mug and is very reminiscent of our Chai Latte, packed with warming spices.

It contains anti-inflammatory turmeric, ginger and cinnamon. Curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

You will find the recipe in my next newsletter. You can sign up via the website if you’re not already subscribed:
www.the-sop.com

If you usually reach for coffee first thing or tea after work, this could be a great swap to help control cortisol levels and ease you into the day feeling calmer and less stressed.

Finding Balance in the Seasons
By embracing Hygge, we honour the body’s need to adapt to seasonal rhythms. Rather than resisting winter, find ways to nurture yourself through it:

·      Make warming stews, soups and drinks with plenty of spices

·      Get early morning light into your eyes with a regular 20 minute walk outside

·      Place a light box on your desk and use for an hour or two every day

·      A regular sauna and cold plunge practice can help both relax and stimulate you

·      Sit by the fire or light a scented candle and read a paper book every evening

·      Have plenty of blankets, cushions and a cosy corner to welcome you home and spend time relaxing, breathing or meditating

Hygge is, at its heart, osteopathic in nature: a reminder that harmony between mind, body, environment and our seasons is the foundation of good health.

Emma Wightman
www.the-sop.com