Cozy-Up Your Workout

November 27, 2023

I’m a sun worshiping, barefoot-loving, garden-growing gal, so winter is not my favorite! I grew up with long dark winters, and they were always depressing, but when I heard about this Danish concept called Hygge, which is synonymous with cozy and warm, and love and comfort, especially in the winter months, I was all over it. If there is a way to make winter more bearable, I’m in. 

The Hygge vibe can be seen in food (soups and stews) and drink (hot cider), in home decor (candles and fireplaces), wardrobe styling (hand knit mittens), social gatherings and more. I love to apply it to our workout routines. Here are my top eight tips to help cozy-up your workout: 

  1. Incorporate knitwear into your workout wardrobe. Spandex and tank tops are not very hygge, ladies, so whenever you can, layer in sweaters, socks, leg warmers, scarfs and shawls. 
  2. Don’t rush. Nothing kills a hygge vibe faster than running late, so don’t. Give yourself extra time to settle in and be present, with no racing against the clock, epecially when it comes to your workout.
  3. Dim the lights. Natural light is always best and candlelight is nice. Scones and floor lamps are good. Try to avoid harsh, overhead and/or florescent lighting. 
  4. Play classical music at a low volume. Classical music creates a hygge atmosphere I think, so whenever you can fit in into your routine, give it a try. 
  5. Moisturize your skin…alot. In winter, generously apply your favorite face and hand creams and body lotions. Having hydrated, moisturized skin – face and body – is a delight.
  6. Spend time on your mat not moving. With your cozy sweater on and your fresh, clean and moisturized skin, arrive on your mat, settle in and breathe …another total delight! 
  7. Swap your water bottle with a thermos of herbal tea. Can’t go wrong with a cuppa chamomile, ginger, or licorice. 
  8. Use a beloved essential oil as aromatherapy. Lately, I’m loving bergamot – spraying a mist of it in my workout space and using a dab of bergamot on my wrists. It brings in the hygge feels…warm and cozy, love and comfort. 

It’s the tail end of November. Right now in the northern hemisphere, we’ve got long nights that are getting longer. Infusing your daily workout routine with elements of Hygge – snow or not – might just make movement more enjoyable, and feed our souls.  So let’s do it, let’s get cozy. It’s cold outside (and a little depressing), but inside, we’re staying warm and inspired. 🔥