By Claire Lomack-Phelps
I've been exploring the ideas of simpler living, downsizing and minimalism for a while. Pinterest, You Tube, TEDx talks and other websites provide all kinds of information and demos on living with less, reduced consumption and its benefits including saving more money, happiness and better quality of life. Like many people, I enjoyed shopping, and had accumulated much over the years. With social distancing, stores and malls are now closed. We are shopping less, sheltering at home and slowing down. This may be a good time to re-evaluate what we really need, to appreciate loved ones and value what we already have. We can ask questions such as: What is valuable to us? What kind of life do we want to go back to? I've recently done some downsizing and donated, sold and repurposed items. I'm not there yet, but it's been a satisfying work in progress.
Hygge, pronounced "HOO-gah" is a Danish word and concept for feelings of coziness, comfort, and joy with the simple things. Normally applied during the winter months in some countries, in Denmark, it's a year-round concept. The emphasis is on quality time with family, friends, pets or alone.
Here are some websites that may be of interest. Also, check YouTube.
And check out these Pinterest and Instagram pages:
Claire is a Library Assistant in Circulation and the Children's Room at the Red Bank Public Library.