6 Cozy Ways To Embrace Hygge In The Office

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Let’s be honest — when you think of your office, you likely don’t think of feeling cozy or relieved. While we know that offices and desk policies vary from place to place, you should still feel like you can take advantage of every opportunity to make your space feel like home. And that’s where hygge comes in.

You may have already heard of the Danish term hygge (pronounced HOO-gah), which is used to acknowledge a special feeling that exudes charm, intimacy and coziness. In other words, it’s that feeling of contentment and happiness you get on a rainy day snuggled up in a blanket with your favorite book and a steaming mug of cocoa. Who doesn’t want that feeling on a daily basis?

What you may not know, though, is that you can achieve the hygge vibe in your own office. Here’s how to nail it without looking sloppy or unprofessional.

1. Bring some of your favorite items from home.

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Whether it be your morning cat mug or that aesthetically pleasing magazine you love to keep on your coffee table, surround your desk space with a few of your favorite things to give yourself a sense of home. The workday is tough, so adding any visually appealing items that make you feel good will lighten the load.

2. Take a break and get fresh air at least once a day.

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You’re likely in one spot for around eight hours a day, so take a break every day to decompress and breathe in some fresh air. Plus, getting some outside time will boost your vitamin D production, making you healthier and happier. You’re even more likely to be super productive after a solid break, too.

3. Seek out natural light.

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Hygge is all about promoting inner happiness, and getting as much natural light as you can is one of the most important things you can do to boost your mood. Sit by a window if at all possible, or take a break to hang out in the sun. Sometimes, though, you can’t always go outside, or maybe it’s been cloudy the last few days. In these instances, look into purchasing (or expensing) a natural light lamp that will help keep you in high spirits and your focus razor sharp.

4. Surround yourself with some greenery.

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Part of the commercialized hygge aesthetic is clean lines, bright colors and lots of greenery. We’re talking succulents, hanging plants, flowers — anything that grows and makes you feel good inside. Adding some small plants to your desk could also cozy up and brighten your space, and some plants are even known to clean your air and calm you down. It’s a win-win-win-win.

5. Make a calming playlist to listen to during those mid-day slumps.

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Music can be naturally therapeutic, so to keep the good vibes going, make a playlist that combines the best calming tunes and songs that will help boost your brain productivity. Include a few fireside acoustic songs and you’ll be good to go.

6. Add some cozy finishing touches.

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Think fresh linen-scented candles, a pack of your favorite tea, a just-in-case-it’s-super-cold knit sweater or even an under-desk fluffy rug. The options are endless, and depending on your workplace flexibility and your ability to personalize, you can turn your space into an oasis of tranquility, happiness and productivity all in one go.