Do you remember a few years ago when every magazine was praising the Scandi practice of hygge? In case you don’t quite recall the details, hygge is all about embracing the fact that it’s cold and a bit dark and damp outside, curling up under a snuggly blanket, lighting a few candles and lamps to provide a lovely warm glow, and resting and relaxing until the spring comes. For us in the UK it was perhaps a passing wellness trend, but for those clever Scandinavians it’s a way of life in the long dark winters, and I think it might be time we took notice again. So if you find that things are a bit challenging again in the next few weeks, why not find ways to make this a calm and leisurely time? Hygge isn’t just about snuggling up under a pretty throw, it’s also about spending quality moments with loved ones, so we’ve packed this issue full of gentle and inspiring ways to reconnect joyfully with those you love, as well as support yourself through difficulties.