Embrace midlife calm, comfort, and self-care this winter
There’s so much to love about the journey into winter. Yes, the cold, lashing rain might be the reality if you're in the Northern Hemisphere, but trust me, there are so many ways you can flip the script. Instead of feeling drained, you can experience the next few months as a joy for the senses. The key? Taking a leaf from the Danish playbook and embracing the concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah), which can help you feel calmer, more content, and even ease menopause symptoms.
As the nights get longer and the colder months approach, it’s the perfect time to slow down and focus on a little me time—and hygge could be your secret weapon in navigating menopause with a sense of serenity.
What is hygge and why does it matter for menopause?
Hygge is all about creating a cosy, comforting atmosphere that promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and a real sense of well-being. In a nutshell, it’s the perfect antidote to the chaos that sometimes accompanies the menopause journey. Think soft lighting, comfy clothes, a warming drink in hand, and the simple pleasure of being present in the moment. Sounds good, right?
Now, I know that for many of us in menopause, stress, anxiety, and disrupted sleep can be daily struggles. That's where hygge really shines. By creating little pockets of calm in your day-to-day life, you can counterbalance the intensity of menopausal changes and give your nervous system the rest it craves. Think of it as a form of self-care that helps to reduce the pressure and weight of the season.
And let’s face it, who doesn’t want to curl up in front of a roaring fire—or better still, under a heated blanket—with a cup of herbal tea, while all the menopause madness settles around you? Pure bliss.
10 simple ways to embrace hygge in menopause this winter
Hygge doesn’t need to be complicated, and it’s certainly not about perfection. It’s all about taking moments to nurture your wellbeing and create a home filled with comfort. So, how do you bring more hygge into your life this winter? Here are 10 ways to start:
Create your cosy space. Add soft lighting, blankets, and pillows to your living room or bedroom. It’s not about transforming the whole house—it’s about setting up one corner where you can truly unwind. This space will be your sanctuary when menopause symptoms hit, whether it’s hot flushes or fatigue.
Warming drinks to soothe the soul. There's something incredibly calming about holding a warm mug in your hands, and menopause often leaves us feeling like we’re in need of comfort (and warmth). Herbal teas, a healthy hot chocolate, or even a simple cup of warm almond milk are perfect for those chilly evenings.
Candles for calm. Lighting a candle in the evening can create an immediate sense of relaxation. The soft, flickering light works wonders for your mood. Choose candles with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus, which are particularly soothing for menopausal symptoms like stress or poor sleep. If you're not keen on flames, go for a diffuser with your favourite winter scent.
Nourishing comfort food. In winter, hearty soups, slow-cooked stews, and warming bowls of porridge are the ultimate in comfort food. But let’s be real—comfort doesn’t have to mean unhealthy. Opt for nutrient-dense meals that support your hormones and give your body the energy it needs to power through the day. If you're on the lookout for something tasty without the stodge, head over to my most popular recipe - the much-loved low-carb cheese scone. Need some more seasonal inspo? Grab this great wintry recipe collection with seasonal recipe ideas for every meal, ideas for how to stay healthyish over Christmas and an all-year-round guide to feeding a crowd with food your midlife body will love (and so will everyone else). Tempted? Go here.
Digital detox. Constant screen time can leave your mind feeling frazzled. Try switching off from screens for an hour or two in the evening to help ease anxiety and improve sleep (yes, I’m looking at you, phone!). This break is essential for both mental and physical rest, especially in menopause when stress levels can fluctuate.
Snuggle up with a good book. Curling up with a good book is pure hygge. It's a simple joy that not only lets you unwind but also keeps your mind engaged without overwhelming it. Whether it's fiction or a comforting non-fiction read on menopause, this small ritual can be incredibly grounding.
Connect with loved ones. Hygge isn’t just about being cosy alone—it’s also about togetherness. Whether it’s a video call with family or a coffee date with friends, spending time with loved ones boosts your mood and wellbeing. Menopause can be isolating at times, so nurturing those connections is key to staying grounded.
Mindful moments. Hygge encourages us to slow down and appreciate the little things. Maybe it’s a quiet cup of tea, watching the rain fall outside, or just sitting in a sunbeam. These mindful moments help you be present, which is essential in managing menopause stress and promoting balance.
Woolly socks and comfy clothes. After a busy day, there’s nothing better than slipping into something soft and warm. Embrace the hygge mindset by treating yourself to luxurious cashmere socks or a cosy jumper that makes you feel wrapped in comfort. This simple act of self-care can bring you back to a calm state of mind.
Winter walks to reset your energy. Yes, it might be cold outside, but there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! Wrap up in your favourite coat and head out for a winter walk. The fresh air and natural light (even on overcast days) can help improve mood, regulate hormones, and boost your energy levels, which is so important in menopause.
Why you deserve some midlife hygge this winter
As the festive season approaches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Between work, family, and the unpredictable nature of menopause symptoms, the holidays can bring their own stress. But hygge is a reminder that slowing down, prioritising self-care, and creating moments of warmth and relaxation aren’t luxuries—they’re necessary.
So, I encourage you to embrace the simplicity and comfort of hygge this winter. Take time for yourself, and know that it’s okay to take things slow. Whether you choose one or all of these hygge tips, they’re guaranteed to bring you a little more peace and a lot less stress. And who knows? It might just be the perfect antidote to navigating menopause with grace and ease.
Hygge in menopause isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding comfort, joy, and calm in the small things. So go ahead, embrace the cosy life, and enjoy the winter months with all the hygge your heart desires.
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