How to Hygge with a Baby

A Post by Bridgette

Hygge with a baby? Yes!

As the weather turns cold and dreary once more and the busy holiday season descends upon us, you may be wondering how to make the most of this season. One of my personal favorite ways to beat the winter blues is by implementing Hygge into my daily life. This year I get to Hygge with my baby! Wondering how to hygge with a baby? Read on for more.

Get Cozy!

Hygge is a great way to stay feeling cozy and happy during the winter months, and all year! However as with all things, your lifestyle changes when you have a baby in the home. One thing that changes is becoming more intentional with your time. Some of your old favorite ways to unwind maybe a little unrealistic as a mom (who has time to curl up with a good book, or take a bubble bath? Not me!). As moms we’re busy, and some days the only time we may spend sitting down is while feeding the baby. 

Last year, I spent my winter implementing Hygge while pregnant and impatiently awaiting the arrival of my first daughter. This year, I’m learning how to Hygge with a baby! Join me on my journey and read on for great tips on how to cozy up with your baby in tow. 

Take advantage of every moment, to hygge with your baby

Even if you’re just sitting down for a while to feed your baby, take 5 minutes ahead of time to prepare. 

• Get a glass of water and/or tea, coffee, or hot cocoa
• Light a scented candle or get some good scents going (oil diffuser or scentsy warmer?)
• Put on some music
• Pick up your favorite book or entertainment while nursing

Don’t let this time be a chore, cuddle your baby while you feed her and sip your favorite drink. This is your time to “check out” for a minute and forget about your other chores. Feeding baby is priority and you have the opportunity to create a cozy atmosphere while you do so! 

Create Cozy

Spend a little time reflecting on the things that make you happy, what sparks joy? What things make you feel warm and cozy inside?

• Be intentional about “indulging” in what makes you happy. Whether it’s stocking up on your favorite tea and hot chocolate, dressing baby in cute outfits just for everyday, or decorating for christmas on Nov. 1!
• Lighting is everything! It’s said that Denmark (where Hygge originates!) burns more candles than any other country. I know in my experience having a candle lit in the room sparks cozy and warm feelings! 

If you have young children, be sure to place any candles in a safe spot, or opt for a safer alternative such as electric candles and/or a scentsy warmer for that same subtle lighting effect. 

Put thought into your spaces

Think about where you spend the most of your time, is it in the living room? Kitchen? Play room? Or schoolroom if you home school? Prioritize making this space comfortable for you. This can mean anything from creating a comfortable spot to sit and feed baby, to a designated daily 10 minute tidy up in this room to keep it clean and uncluttered.

Hygge in the evening is my favorite, and I know for sure my baby falls asleep easier when the lights are turned down, candle lit, and a soft piano lullaby playlist on. I’m relaxed, and therefore she relaxes and falls asleep!

Manage Expectations

This may be your first winter/holiday season with an infant, it will be for me! So I’m trying to prepare by being honest with myself about what’s realistic. Here’s how I’m doing that:

• Identify your baby’s needs. My baby wants to be asleep by 7, and that’s something I have to keep in mind when taking her places. Have fun and attend holiday family get togethers, but keep those needs in mind. Baby will still be tired at 7 even though we’re at grandma’s! Make a plan for how to manage those needs.
• Be okay with saying “no” to invites. Family christmas? Yeah I plan on attending that, but the annual christmas eve party? Probably not gonna make it, cause family cuddles and getting baby to bed on time is more important to me! I know that ahead of time, so I’m managing my expectations. 

Enjoy your home time! 

Nothing is more Hygge than enjoying cozy times with your loved ones at home. Make hot chocolate, cuddle up by the fire, and enjoy reveling in the joy of family this winter. My heart is never happier than when I’m cuddled up watching a good movie with my kids and Husband. 

Hygge and Baby

The holidays can be stressful, and a long winter with an infant may seem daunting to some. But lets Hygge it out! This is my daughter’s first winter and by implementing Hygge with her and cultivating an atmosphere of love, warmth, and hominess; I hope to instil traditions of cozy winters from now through adulthood. 

By being intentional today, we are creating memories that our children will look back on fondly. 

Tell me, how are you implementing Hygge with your young ones this winter? Comment below!