Bring Home That ‘Holiday Feeling’

The term ‘holiday feeling’ embodies a unique emotional state characterised by relaxation, joy, and a sense of freedom. This feeling is often experienced during vacations and time off, when we can step away from our daily responsibilities and routines. The contrast between this period of respite and the stressors of everyday life is profound. While on holiday, we frequently find outselves more open to new experiences, more connected to loved ones, and less encumbered by the pressures of work. This profound shift in mindset highlights the importance of taking breaks from our often hectic lives.

Cultivating Presence in Daily Life

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the essence of being present is often overlooked. Holidays have a unique way of encouraging individuals to slow down, savour their surroundings, and engage their senses. This intentional pause fosters an environment ripe for mindfulness, where the benefits of being fully engaged in the moment can significantly enhance our daily experiences.

Mindfulness, defined as the practice of maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, has gained increasing recognition for its positive impact on mental well-being. By embracing the present, we cultivate a heightened awareness that allows us to experience joy in the small, everyday moments we often take for granted. Whether it’s the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the warmth of sunlight streaming through a window, or the laughter of loved ones, engaging with sensory details enriches our daily lives.

Incorporating brief moments of stillness into daily routines can also prove beneficial. Whether during a walk, while waiting in a queue, or sitting quietly with a warm beverage, these moments of reflection allow us to reconnect with ourselves and our surroundings. Through these practices, individuals can find small pockets of joy, fostering an environment where that ‘holiday feeling’ is not limited to a season but becomes an integral part of everyday life.

Editing Out the Noise

When on holiday, many of us experience a noticeable reduction in the chaos of daily life. This simplification fosters a sense of peace, encouraging us to reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones. The act of decluttering not only pertains to our physical environment but also extends to our mental and emotional states. In an increasingly fast-paced society, the adverse effects of multitasking and sensory overstimulation can often impede our ability to fully unwind and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Addressing this clutter is essential for cultivating a holiday-like tranquility throughout the year.

Multitasking, while often lauded as a desirable skill, can actually lead to diminished productivity, increased stress, and a fragmented mental state. Research indicates that juggling multiple tasks can result in cognitive overload, making it challenging to focus on any one activity effectively. To counteract this, it is beneficial to implement structured time blocks for specific tasks, allowing for undivided attention and a greater sense of accomplishment. This approach not only mitigates the overwhelming sensation often associated with busyness but also enhances overall satisfaction in completing individual tasks.

Beyond scheduling, decluttering our physical space plays a pivotal role in enhancing our mental clarity. A clean and organised environment contributes significantly to reducing distractions, allowing for serene spaces in which to think and reflect. Strategies such as minimalism advocate for a careful evaluation of possessions, urging individuals to keep only those items that truly add value to their lives. This practice can significantly reduce the noise of excess, translating into a more peaceful living space that encourages relaxation and introspection.

Practical Tips for Bringing that ‘Holiday Feeling’ Home

Integrating that ‘holiday feeling’ into daily life can be an enriching experience that fosters a sense of warmth and togetherness. One effective approach is to establish small rituals that bring joy and connection. For instance, selecting one small item to beautify your living space can serve as a daily reminder of the season’s spirit. This might involve placing a cherished ornament on display or creating a small seasonal arrangement. Such simple changes can enhance the ambiance of your home and uplift your mood.

CREATE RITUALS

Another practical tip is to consciously ask yourself each day what brings you joy and feels good in the moment. This practice encourages mindfulness and allows you to focus on simple pleasures that often go unnoticed. On holiday, we make the morning coffee slowly. We sit while we drink it. We gaze at the view and feel the sun and air on our skin. We light candles, open the windows, put on music before dinner. These are rituals. And they don’t have to disappear when the holiday ends. Try this: Choose one small thing to make more beautiful this week:- your tea, your body oil after a shower, lighting a candle as you answer emails. Let it anchor your day.

DECIDE TO BE PRESENT

On holiday, we look up at buildings. We walk slower. We savour a meal rather than speed-eat. We feel the heat on our skin, the cold of the sea, the quiet of a late afternoon nap. On holiday, we give ourselves permission to be where we are. That’s not because we have more time, it’s because we’ve decided to see things differently. Try this: Once a day, ask: “What feels good right now?” A sound, a scent, a shadow. This takes ten seconds and rewires your brain gently toward gratitude and presence. 

EDIT OUT THE NOISE

On holiday, the wardrobe is simpler. The schedule is emptier. The phone is quieter. We don’t try to multitask or answer emails in the middle of dinner. We choose less, and less makes us feel better. The modern world constantly pulls us into more. But our nervous systems long for space. Try this: One evening a week, unplug. Light a candle. Read a book. Apply a mask. Don’t scroll, don’t answer. By minimising distractions and embracing moments of quiet and cutting out the noise, you create a serene space that embodies the essence of the holidays.

HYGGE YOUR HOME

Additionally, creating a cosy space with seasonal decorations, such as candles or fairy lights, adding a cosy throw, playing music, enjoying an uninterrupted meal with loved ones, can all uplift the atmosphere and make even ordinary evenings feel special. By infusing daily life with such elements, individuals will find that that ‘holiday feeling’ can reside in their homes throughout the year.

Ultimately, while we may not be able to replicate the exact experiences of a vacation, incorporating these small gestures into our daily lives allows us to embody the spirit of those cherished moments. Embracing the everyday holiday mood encourages us to find light in simplicity and celebrate the joys that are readily available in our routines.

Real-Life Examples

Incorporating small changes to evoke the holiday feeling can significantly enhance overall wellbeing, as evidenced by various testimonials from individuals who have embraced this mindset throughout the year. 

For instance, Mark, who struggled with stress and burnout, decided to integrate the ‘holiday feeling’ into his home through decoration. He started setting up a small festive corner in his living room, regardless of the season. This space, adorned with cheerful lights and seasonal décor, be it pumpkins or seashells, became his retreat for relaxation after long workdays. Mark reported that having this sanctuary not only lifted his spirits but fostered creativity in his work. His approach demonstrates that embracing small gestures can create a significant impact on one’s mental health by establishing a calm and comforting environment.

Then there is Emily, a mother of two who recognised how family time during holidays brought joy. To maintain this holiday spirit, she initiated a weekly family night with themed dinners and activities. Emily described how these gatherings fostered connection and allowed her family to develop deeper relationships. They now have a structured time for laughter and storytelling, elements that they cherish, transcending any seasonal boundaries. These real-life examples exemplify how the integration of small practices can transform one’s perspective, providing clarity and joy throughout everyday life.

Be More Hyggelig

As we navigate through our busy lives, it can often be challenging to capture that cherished ‘holiday feeling’ within our homes. However, here at Hygge, we believe making even some small adjustments – whether it be incorporating seasonal décor, introducing calming scents, or dedicating time to creating special moments with loved ones – can greatly improve both your emotional and physical wellbeing. Commit to being more hyggelig for one week and observe how it transforms your living space and uplifts your spirits.

Sharing your experiences can enhance this process further, so we encourage you to share with others. Consider taking photos of your cosy corners, capturing the essence of your chosen change, and sharing them on social media. Use specific hashtags (#hygge) to connect with fellow readers and amplify the exchange of ideas.

We believe your home should bring you joy and happiness, make you feel good, every day not just whilst you are on holiday. Let us share in this experience of creating that lasting ‘holiday feeling’ at home.