Minimalism vs Hygge

For a time I wasn't sure if I could really attempt a minimalistic lifestyle. BTW, I am still attempting. It's a work in progress. But one of the things that hindered a more timely approach to minimalism is the concept of Hygge. The Oxford dictionary defines it "A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture)."

I'm a huge Pinterest addict and I have both a board on Minimalism and one on Hygge. I love cozy, Bohemian style. I love simplicity. How can I have both? Well, I think I can. They're more alike than different....the difference is minimal....get it, minimal? 😊

While the definition and whole idea of minimalism is one of sparse simplicity, that perception isn't absolute. "To each their own" can easily be applied to minimalistic pursuits because it's so personal. I know of one minimalist who is opposed to bringing candles into her home because it's clutter. I'm not so severe about such things. I LOVE candles!  And a string of lights here and there adds ambiance and warmth to a maybe otherwise stark area. You get the point though, right? You can have whatever you want...in minimalism you may choose to have less but you shouldn't deny yourself the things that you love or that make you happy. 

Minimalism and Hygge have many commonalities but I think the main one is the result of freeing ourselves to enjoy the simple pleasures of life and the company of others. When my home is more easily and naturally in order I have more time for meaningful adventures and time spent with others. My mind and schedule are more open and available since they are not distracted by clutter or wondering where I put the scissors, for example. Everything has a place because it has an intentional purpose. And the items I cherish may be fewer than someone elses but they are on display where I can admire and appreciate them all the time. They are not packed away in a closet or lost in a junk pile....it's easy to take care of what one has if there isn't an excess of it. I don't want so much stuff that I can't appreciate the items I truly love. 

I'm inclined to make a "cozy" home....coziness is more in tune with hygge. But I have always striven for equilibrium in my life and my home. And I am finding that balance moreso in minimalistic living. Streamlining my home helps me feel more "together." The house looks better even when it's not spotless. Having a presentable home matters to me. And as I get older and I have less energy it has to be manageable. Bonus! My mind and thoughts are clearer and my stress is less. I just function better. 

Both hygge and minimalism are about living and what matters to us. While some minimalists might be more concerned with productivity, I don't think that's a valid concern for all of us. I mean, yes we want to create a minimalist lifestyle but personally I'm not breaking my back doing it. Again, it's individual criteria we're working with, not a set of rules. I emphasize baby steps, baby steps...especially if you are overwhelmed or just beginning your journey. 

The bottom line is whatever path you choose you can acquire more presence in your life, fewer distractions, and more meaningful relationships. We all want greater meaning in our lives, more time for the people we love and the things we want to do. I'm finding a more minimalist mindset is leading  me there....candles included.