Feeling overwhelmed by the dark, cold UK months? In this episode, I share my approach to living Hygge —a cozy, mindful lifestyle that goes beyond interiors. 

What We'll Cover

• Changing your mindset about autumn & winter:
  • Why the colder, darker months don’t have to be dreaded.
  • Shifting from a “season to survive” to a season to rest, restore, and reflect.
  • Embracing Hygge as an attitude, not just a home aesthetic.
• Evening & bedtime rituals:
  • Setting a gentle 9:30 PM alarm to signal winding down.
  • Enjoying warming drinks like frothy almond milk with ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon.
  • Yin yoga routines and mindful stretching for relaxation and better sleep.
  • Simple skincare routines with affordable, effective products for winter self-care.
  • Optional extras: pillow sprays, sleep masks, and cozy bedtime rituals.
• Morning rituals to start your day grounded:
  • Early wake-ups to enjoy quiet time before anyone else is awake.
  • Candle-lit mornings, meditation, journaling, and affirmation cards.
  • Observing nature: stepping outside to connect with the day’s weather and light.
  • Mindful activities like feeding a sourdough starter or baking for calm and satisfaction.
• Creative and home-based winter activities:
  • Sourdough baking, wreath-making, and seasonal crafts.
  • Jigsaws, board games, and tapestry as mindful hobbies.
  • Writing handwritten letters to friends and family.
  • Reading seasonal books like How to Winter and The Power of Hot and Cold.
• Living Hygge through clothing and comfort:
  • Snuggly cashmere jumpers, fleece-lined clogs, and soft joggers.
  • Layering for warmth and comfort while feeling stylish at home.
  • Using tactile items like soft throws, cozy bedding, and blankets to create hygge corners.
• Optimizing your surroundings for seasonal wellbeing:
  • Using lighting, candles, and fairy lights to create warmth and coziness.
  • Incorporating tactile and sensory comforts to make home feel restorative.
  • Music, aromas, and small adjustments to transform spaces into winter sanctuaries.
• Nourishing foods and winter cooking rituals:
  • Seasonal soups, stews, root vegetables, and spiced dishes.
  • Comfort foods with warming spices like cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, and garam masala.
  • Weekend batch cooking to simplify weeknights and create joyful meals.
  • Treats like spiced apple cake, frothy spiced milk, or dark chocolate with nuts.
• Winter biohacks & restorative practices:
  • Cold plunges and starry dips for invigorating energy.
  • Sauna sessions and contrast therapy for warmth and endorphins.
  • PEMF mats for grounding, relaxation, and recovery after cold dips.
  • Yin yoga, restorative stretches, and mindful evening rituals to close the day.
• Mindset tips for enjoying UK winters:
  • Focusing on slowing down and aligning with nature’s rhythms.
  • Making the most of the season without wishing it away.
  • Finding joy in small, restorative activities rather than the idealized “Scandi hygge.”
• Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
  • Yin Yoga with Kassandra on YouTube
  • Skincare: The Ordinary product range
  • Books: How to Winter, The Power of Hot and Cold
  • Sauna & cold plunge guides, PEMF mat (Higher Dose)
  • To read the blog post associated with this podcast episode (Hygge at Home: Autumn & Winter Rituals for Wellness) just click HERE