I found that the year 2020 was the year of nesting for almost everyone I know. All of my friends, family, neighbors and literally half the world was nesting. Clearing and cleaning out their homes since we were all under quarantine. What is nesting? It’s a phenomenon that usually occurs if you are pregnant, a new mother or if you are trying desperately to create a comfortable safe haven in your home due to a worldwide pandemic. 

Let’s look at some definition’s to see what we find. I want to explore the terms nesting, haven, hygge and slow.

Nesting definition: This urge to clean and organize is known as nesting. Nesting during pregnancy is the overwhelming desire to get your home ready for your new baby. The nesting instinct is strongest in the later weeks coming upon delivery. It is an old wives' tale that once nesting urges begin, labor is about to come on.

Haven definition: Definition of haven · 1 : harbor, port · 2 : a place of safety : refuge · 3 : a place offering favorable opportunities or conditions, like Carmel was a  haven for artists.

Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special. Hygge (or to be “hyggeligt”) doesn't require adopting it as a lifestyle or buying anything. 

Slow is actually an acronym which stands for Sustainable, Local, Organic and Whole. So there is also an environmental aspect to the slow food movement and doing things slowly in general. 

Again, I do recommend you try to clear out the excess first if at all possible. Please do listen to my episode 1 topic Pre New Year Refresh for help with some overall decluttering. Here are some physical ways in which you can create your own haven and an atmosphere that will encourage the priceless feelings and emotions that are true hygge. 

• Lighting – soft lamp light, candles, salt lamps, Christmas lights, twinkle lights etc
• Aroma’s – candles, diffusers with essential oils
• Texture – ffuffy comforters, cozy pj’s, velvety blankets and sweater throws
• Favorite pieces around you – art, plants, furnitrue
• Loose comfortable clothing, really cute pjs, loungewear that’s one step above a ripped tee and sweats
• Clean home with good flow and no clutter
• Hot drinks and comfort foods soups, one pot dishes, lasagne type meals, curries, ramen
• Spend quality time with friends and family cooking, eating, playing games, watching a movie, having a hot drink together or just hanging out.

A special thank you to SmartSound FX HUMAN CROWD Applause Small Audience applauding and cheering!!!