We big men need to face facts. The women in our lives are far more advanced in the self-care stakes than us. Somehow, (*cough* Instagram) they are right up to date on all of the latest and greatest self-care trends. And one you might have heard talk of is hygge (pronounced “hoo gah”).

For the non-indoctrinated, hygge is a Danish concept that basically relates to staying warm and cosy during winter. According to VisitDenmark, hygge is defined as “creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people.” Something we big blokes certainly know a thing or two about. So, if you are a big man who is looking forward to a more comfortable, more sociable, more enjoyable winter – this is the article for you.

Hygge is defined as finding comfort the in simple things such as a cosy atmosphere

How to Hygge for Big Men: 5 tips to make this winter more wonderful

1. Make your big man winter den as cosy as possible

You are most likely going to be spending a lot more time indoors once the weather turns bleak. If you have the means, I highly recommend creating a big man cave. If not, you can always big up your home décor through a spot of interior design. However, be warned: adorning the family home with deer antlers and pictures of prize fighters is a high risk, high reward strategy. Whilst you may not be able to go the whole hog and renovate your home in time for winter this year, you can at least scatter a couple of nice cushions around. Very hygge indeed.

2. Make a fire

Creating atmosphere with some mood lighting is a huge part of hygge. Sure, you could buy some candles. But why not go one step further and start a blaze? Since time immemorial, big men have wowed the opposite sex with our ability to create fire. This winter let the missus bask in the glow of your fire starting skills by constructing a good ol’ fire pit. Put the kids to bed, light the fire, grab some nice wine and let the spark of romance ignite!

3. Host brunch

Breakfast might be the most important meal of the day, but brunch is a lifestyle. Score some serious brownie points by preparing and cooking a delicious brunch for your friends and family this winter. Hygge is all about enjoying good food and good company. Hosting everyone for a sumptuous extended breakfast will show just how large and in charge you are as a big man who brunches.

4. Set some time aside

Embracing a big man hygge lifestyle this winter means embracing happiness. It’ll be too easy to feel swamped with all of that interior decorating you will be doing as well as all those brunches that need hosting. You don’t want to get to the stage of burnout when you’re meant to be all blissful this winter. That’s why it wise to stay mindful of the need to block in some quality me-time. Personally, I love nothing more than expanding my knowledge base and skillset by reading some great self-help books. Or, you might be someone who loves nothing more than sinking into oblivion watching your favourite TV series.

Hygge was actually invented by the Norwegians and originally meant something akin to "well-being."

5. Dress accordingly

The Swedes, in the land of 3pm sunsets and six-month long winters, have a saying: “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Indeed, to properly enjoy the fruits of the season and lead a hygge lifestyle this winter, we big men should take this advice. Not only that, it would also behove us to abide by our own winter dressing code.

Now is the time to top up your big men’s wardrobe with some well-chosen winter pieces. A winter vest is not only versatile, it can really help you dress up an outfit that proclaims your confidence and cool. Furthermore, you can show off your sporty and urban credentials by wearing a fashion name brand hoodie. Pair with jeans or chinos for an authentic casual look. Or, maybe you need a new jacket to add some variety to your winter wardrobe and keep the winter chills in abeyance. And don’t forget your big men accessories. Nothing says hygge more than a comfy pair of socks.

So, there you have it. All of the ingredients necessary for us big men to embrace the hygge lifestyle this winter. I don’t know about you but I am so ready to put my feet up in front of an open fire, with a nice red and a good book. I didn’t choose the hygge life. The hygge life chose me.

By Anthony Cheadle