Getting Hygge On Flare-Up Days
I've taken a very intentional approach to how I use my space when I'm in a flare-up. If I'm going to be sleepy or in pain, I may as well make it a comforting experience.
So, during a flare-up, I'll create a sort of "Hygge" experience — Hygge being the Norwegian term (yep, it's pronounced hugga) for 'cozy mood' or 'comfort.' It doesn't exactly have a close English translation, but it's somewhere between an aesthetic and a mood. It's about feeling content and acknowledging that very contentment and coziness. It's about making your surroundings feel at-home.
Countless picture books, websites, and Instagram threads are dedicated to the Hygge lifestyle — and while I'm a little more of a mess than Hyyge gurus might allow, I try my best.
First, if my flare-up in bad enough, I make my space somewhere I can work, rest, and enjoy — enjoy being the core of it all. I like to make sure my space is fairly clean, that cozy blankets are available, and that I can access the things I need —like my meds, my computer, and whatever else.
Lighting is also a big part of the Hygge experience. I realized when I shut the blinds and lie in the dark, I feel more isolated — sadder and more in pain. So, I love to embrace either natural sunlight or use the soft pink glow of Himalayan salt lamps. I have two of them on either side of my bed, one in my living room, and one where I write. They're under $20 and well worth every penny since they illuminate a room with a soft, undisturbing glow that makes you feel comforted. The added beauty can perk up any space. In fact, there's a lot of science to back-up the fact that color and light can improve our mood.
Next, I fill my space with things of joy. I remember when the Marie Kondo craze hit and everyone was getting rid of things that didn't bring them joy. I'm not big into having much "stuff" around either unless it serves a purpose —but I do love piles of books, plants, candles, crystals, and beautiful nick-nacks.
All of these things remind me of what I love (writing and reading), art (I love little figurines and jars and decorative items) and natural things that bring the outside in. While I'm inside dealing with a flare-up missing the outside world, plants and crystals not only give my room an earthy vibe, they remind me that I'm not entirely separated from nature. And there is much to be said for the healing power of nature, especially when it comes to inflammation.
In the end, it's about knowing what I can control. I can't entirely control my body, my fatigue, my pain levels, or the fact that I have this disease — but I can control my experience of it if I'm gonna be stuck on a bed or couch. Humans love beauty, colors, and shapes. Beauty nourishes our souls and stimulates our minds. More so, creating a space that is filled with things of joy means you are creating an atmosphere of healing and relaxation. It's so much better to be in a space of cleanliness and comfort than a messy, uncared for a room that doesn't feel warm.
It doesn't need to be an expensive venture either! Some of the things I've found to adorn my space have come from the Salvation Army, garage sales, and even dollar bins (hello, tiny fake plants and candles!).
Below are some pictures of my "Hygge." These things bring me joy when I am in a flare-up:
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