A small tweak to feel instantly cozy

🕯️ Today’s tip: Mood lighting is an easy way to forget that you’re stuck inside.

This upcoming winter, more than most, we could all do well to make our homes a little cozier. The Norwegian concept of koselig is a kind of unified theory of coziness, like the Danish hygge, but…more. Think of it as creating an entire coziness scene.

According to Zach Row-Heyveld, the exhibitions manager at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, even the lighting matters: “If you just open a packet of hot cocoa and serve it to your friends with your bright overhead lights on, that’s not very koselig,” he says. “Whereas if you prepare homemade hot cocoa in a mug that you made, with candles, that is very koselig. … All the difference is in the subtlety.”

So dim the lights, light some candles, and find your best mug. Take time to focus on the subtle details. Instead of stifling, all that time inside can feel nourishing.

✍️ We want to hear from you. Send us an email at forge@medium.com and tell us what you’ve been doing to feel cozy. We may feature some of our favorite answers on Forge’s Instagram.

📚 More from Forge on preparing for pandemic winter:

It’s Going to Be a Long Winter — Stockpile Your Coping Strategies
Read more >>

You Don’t Have to Feel Hopeful
Read more >>

The Hottest Winter Accessory is “Personal Space”
Read more >>

The Forge Daily Tip is sent every morning via email. ☀️ Subscribe to The Forge Daily Tip here.

You’re subscribed to receive emails from Forge. You can adjust your settings via the link at the bottom of this email.