Hunker Down

I began writing this blog on December 21, when temperatures were -1F and felt like -17F. This is the shortest day of the year and the longest night – the Winter Solstice. Where I live in Minnesota, we will have 8 hours and 55 minutes of daylight today. We will hover at this amount of daylight for three days, then it will start to increase until we come to the Summer Solstice on June 21 or 22. For some, this is a time of quiet and peace in preparation for the lengthening of the day and the sun’s return. A time of reflection on the past year and setting intentions for the coming one.

There is also an arctic blast on its way. I picked up a few items last night and walked out of the grocery store just as people poured in. Yes, I picked up milk, eggs, and toilet paper. I was low on all three and had no intention of leaving my house until December 26. After today’s snow (expecting 4-6 inches at the moment), the temperature is expected to take a nose-dive. Highs won’t break 0F with sustained winds in the 20-30mph range. These are blizzard conditions and travel is not advised.

I have canceled my plans to travel to Missouri to be with my family for Christmas. It’s just too dangerous to travel. The drive is about 7.5 hours in good weather. However, the trip was too dangerous, with high winds, extreme cold, and possibly questionable road conditions. Even a flat tire can become deadly with the wind chills predicted.

I take advantage of the time to hunker down, let my introverted self soak in the solitude, snuggle with my cats, and practice hygge.

Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is the Danish art of contentment, comfort, and connection. It is coziness and comfortable conviviality, engendering feelings of well-being. This is a defining characteristic of Danish culture and is perfect for Minnesota winter days. A hygge life is slow. Hygge is a time for dim lights, lit candles, comfortable clothes, warm blankets, hot tea, savory soups, and good books. I have all in plentiful supply at my house. It is also a time of connection with others and yourself. Thankfully, today’s technology (Facetime, Zoom, phone, text, etc.) allows me to maintain a connection with family and friends when we can’t gather in person.

I turn on my holiday lights when I wake. I crack a window and sage my house, cleansing the energy and inviting peace. I play my favorite music all day. I journal and write this blog. Goldie snuggles at my feet and Piney naps in her favorite basket near me. They call me to rest and I obey. With nothing on my calendar and no critical, time-sensitive tasks, I give in and let myself be mindfully restful.