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As the darkness and cold of January descend, the season can often feel bleak.
Yet despite enduring freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall and prolonged periods of insufficient sunshine, Scandinavians are known for their optimism and unique ability to cope with the colder months.
Curious about how to better survive the long, gray weeks ahead, we asked Brontë Aurell, Danish chef, best-selling author and founder of ScandiKitchen, for her expert advice on approaching winter in Scandinavian style.
Accept the darkness and cold that winter brings
The first stage is acceptance.
“exist Scandinavia “We’ve been living in the dark for months, so we know it’s coming and there’s no way to stop it,” Orrell said. “I think starting to accept that it’s going to be dark and cold for the next few months helps to brighten the scene a little bit. “It makes things feel a little easier because you’re like, OK, okay, I know it’s coming, so I can do something about it instead of being upset about it all the time. “
illuminate the darkness
“My favorite childhood memory of winter in Scandinavia is the snow and all the lights,” Orrell said. “Because it’s so dark, I think Scandinavians are really good at lighting up the darkness with little candles and twinkling lights. Even the tiniest bit of light shines really brightly in the dark.”
Turning off the main light and turning on a desk lamp can be a great way to create cozy mood lighting.
“I think lights are grossly underrated,” Orrell said. “I don’t like big lights in my living room, I have maybe six or seven small lights in my living room, and a lot of candles. I’ll turn them on at different times to create different moods.”
Hibernate with friends and family
“Hibernate like a penguin,” Aurel suggests. “Hold together not only for physical warmth but also for emotional warmth. The darkness can really feel isolating, but if you’re together, suddenly you feel comfortable.
“Spend more time at home with family and friends and make more time for each other.”
Embrace the outdoors
Scandinavians are known for their love of the outdoors, whether it’s running in the snow or hiking, so Aurell encourages us British Follow suit and enjoy the benefits of fresh air.
“It’s important to get a daily dose of vitamin D, so even if you only have a few hours of light each day, try to get outside for a walk and get some fresh air,” Aurell advises. “Instead of sitting in the office all day, go for a walk at lunch and get a little vitamin D – just being outside can make an amazing difference.”
Wrapped up warm
“As every Scandinavian grandmother keeps repeating: ‘There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes,'” Orrell said. “It’s going to rain, it’s going to snow, it’s going to be sleet, but if you’re dressed up, you’ll be fine.”
She recommends investing in quality winter gear that will keep you warm and last for years to come.
“If it’s really cold, dress in layers so you can stay outside longer and invest in a good raincoat and umbrella,” advises Aurell. “We’re very good at layering for the Scandinavian cold because we invest in good boots and good outerwear.”
practice hygge
“Hygge is a Danish word that means appreciating the moment you’re in,” Aurell explains. “You have to be in that space, so you can’t be on your phone or screen with other people. You have to cherish the time you have with the people you’re with.
“You can also create that atmosphere with mood lights, candles, so you can get that cozy, warm feeling.”
Cook food that brings you joy
“Fill your stomach with really good stuff that you like,” Orrell advises.
For Danish chefs, nothing represents winter more than fresh cinnamon buns.
“I don’t think any other baked good brings me back to my mother’s kitchen more than a freshly baked cinnamon bun,” Orrell said. “The smell of cardamom, cinnamon and vanilla is really comforting. Even on the most depressing day of the year, I think everyone would feel good if they had a freshly baked cinnamon bun.”
Jump into the sauna
“Sonin is very Nordic It’s very comfortable to do in the winter,” says Orel. “Not every Danish household has these, but many Sweden That’s what families do, when it’s cold outside, you go in and have a hot water sauna, and then you’re back in the cold. This is great for your circulation and mood. “
buy some blankets
“Add some really cozy throws to your living room,” advises Orrell. “I think I have four or five different blankets in my living room, one for each family member. In the winter we all sit under the blankets and watch TV, and it’s just nice and cozy.”