What does the ideal winter evening look like to you? If you envision yourself curled up with a cozy blanket in front of the fire while indulging in comfort foods, you’re not alone. Many people feel more drawn to the comforts of home when the temperature plummets and the world looks bleaker outside. Outdoor streets tend to be quieter and less bustling in the winter because most people prefer to spend their time inside.

But what exactly is it about a cozy home that compels us to spend more time indoors during the colder months? Why do the body and mind prefer to slow down and enjoy a human version of hibernation for part of the year? It turns out there’s science behind this common phenomenon. Here’s why we’re drawn to cozy comforts at home during the winter months.

The Science of Winter Comfort

If you feel like curling up with a cozy throw blanket and sleeping longer than usual during the winter, there’s nothing wrong with you. You’re not simply being lazy or wasting time on unimportant things. According to a study published in the Frontiers in Neuroscience, humans need more sleep (especially deep sleep) during the winter. It turns out that we’re not as different from hibernating animals as we previously thought.

There seems to be a combination of factors leading to the human need for increased winter slumber, including fewer daylight hours. The sun helps set your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s internal clock. When there’s less sunlight exposure due to shorter winter days, the body naturally craves more sleep and coziness. So, don’t feel guilty about spending more time snoozing with your favorite cozy blanket. Your body needs that extra shuteye!

The Psychological Drive for Cozy Things

Indulging in cozy things goes so much deeper than a desire for physical comfort. It’s also intensely psychological. Close your eyes and envision yourself walking from an outdoor blizzard into your warm, inviting home. Notice how both your body and your mind immediately respond to the change.

Settling into a familiar, comforting space with soft textures and familiar sounds triggers a flood of feel-good neurotransmitters. These stimulate sensations of peace and emotional well-being. Just as an affectionate hug may have the power to reduce cortisol and stress levels, soft textures may have a similar effect. Wrapping yourself in coziness can be a soothing and nurturing experience, especially when the world outside feels overly harsh and cold.

The Scandinavian “Hygge” Culture

Scandinavia is one of the coldest places on the planet, with the northern regions sometimes plummeting to -58˚F. Yet, despite the bone-chilling frigidity, Scandinavians have a reputation for creating cozy, warm, and relaxing environments in their homes. They use the word “hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”) to describe their culture of enjoying the small pleasures of life and making their homes warm, happy places.

The lovely concept of Hygge is starting to catch on in the United States. Here are a few ways to bring this Scandinavian-inspired concept into your home this winter:

  • Turn off your regular bulbs and light candles to enjoy the warmth of the light
  • Play relaxing music in your home
  • Create a room in your home that’s designed to be a cozy gathering place (such as the family room or kitchen)
  • Cozy up underneath a soft blanket with a steaming mug of tea or hot cocoa
  • Read a good book while snuggled next to a loved one
  • Gather next to the fireplace with family and friends to play games or tell stories

There’s no “wrong” way to warm your winter with hygge practices. As long as you’re enjoying simple pleasures with the people you love, you’re probably doing it right. Hygge gives you the same feeling of happiness and well-being you get when you’re soaking in a warm bath or hugging someone you love.

Cozy Gift Ideas for Winter

The human drive for winter coziness and comfort makes it easy to find gift ideas that most people will like. If the gift helps someone feel warm and relaxed, it will probably be well-received. Here are a few cozy gift ideas for winter to inspire you:

  • A soft or weighted blanket to provide security on chilly nights
  • A care package of warming comfort foods, such as soup and cookies
  • Comfortable slippers for keeping feet cozy around the house
  • Seasonal candles with familiar wintertime scents that evoke calmness and nostalgia
  • Soft pajamas to encourage deep, restorative slumber
  • An at-home spa kit to keep skin soft and hydrated despite the harsh winter cold

Any of these gifts can warm your loved one’s winter days or evenings. You could also give the gift of your time by spending a warm day indoors, enjoying dinner or a favorite movie together.

Stay Cozy during Winter

Winter has a reputation for being harsh, cold, and exhausting. However, you can control the environment in your home and make it feel warm and welcoming, no matter what’s happening outside. Use these tips to fill your home with the coziness of hygge so your winter feels restorative and comforting. Don’t forget to impart some warmth to others with thoughtful, cozy gifts that make winter feel happy and bright.