Last winter we highlighted the type of cozy-turned-higher-art-form celebrated in Scandinavia -- Hygge  (pronounced "hYOOguh”). It translates to a "fireplace warmth with candles and family and friends and food, tucked under blankets on a snowy day, cup-of- coffee conversation, scarf-snuggle, squiggly, warm baby love." Or something like that. - NPR

We think this concept is 100% translatable to warmer weather because summer burnout is a real thing. BBQs, rooftop parties, garden soirees, picnics, beach adventures, dance parties, house shares, outdoor concerts... it can become too much. Here are our favorite ways to chill out before August rolls in.

  • Unwind to start the weekend with a nice long soak. If you're in the NYC region, take the free shuttle bus to King Spa, a traditional Korean spa and sauna in NJ. You can also pick up your favorite Soapwalla Soaking Salts, put on a podcast, light a candle (this one by Follain is our current favorite) and take it easy. 
  • Turn off your phone and take a walk with no destination. Wander to a park and take a nap under a big shady tree.
  • Clean sheets = a delicious way to start the weekend. If you're looking to upgrade your set, we're huge fans of Coyuchi. Make your bed and curl up with a book
  • Put on your pjs, order take-out, and binge watch a show (we love OITNBNew GirlThe Americans, and Broad City).
  • Grab coffee and a bagel (and perhaps your favorite candy) on your way to a matinee in your neighborhood movie theater.  Bonus: major air conditioning!
 Images via Death to the Stock Photo