Hwyl; A State of Being

Hywl; A welsh word that encapsulates the essence of joy, presence, and immersion in the moment.

Much like the Danish concept of Hygge, Hywl represents a state of being, a mindset that celebrates the simple pleasures in life. It’s about being fully present, finding joy in the small things, and cultivating a sense of calm happiness. 

Here are a few ideas of how you can cultivate Hywl this season.

Take Time To Be Creative

Art is a great way to practice hywl. Whether you’re painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, creativity is a powerful way to immerse yourself in the moment. Art allows you to forget for a moment and focus entirely on the process. It's not about creating a perfect masterpiece, it’s about enjoying the act of creation and the joy that comes with it. 

Wales has so many great options for landscapes to take inspiration from, whether it be the rugged coastline or rolling mountains. 

Let go of expectations, and let the joy of the process take over. 

Welsh artist Helen Elliott has created these fun colouring books that provide an accessible way to get creative. Find out more about these here.

Explore the Outdoors

Another way to experience Hywl is by connecting with nature. Wales, with its stunning landscapes, offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether it’s a peaceful walk along the coast, a hike in the mountains, or simply enjoying the tranquility of a park, time in nature is a perfect way to practice Hywl.

The beauty of nature encourages a sense of mindfulness and presence. Take a deep breath, listen to the sounds of the birds, feel the breeze on your skin, and just enjoy the moment. The outdoors has a way of grounding us and reminding us to slow down and appreciate the world around us.

These woodland walk prompt cards by Other Ways To Walk offer guidance and ideas to explore woodland in a different way. 

Grow Your Own Produce 

Gardening is another beautiful way to practice Hywl. There’s something deeply satisfying about working with the earth, nurturing plants, and watching them grow. Whether you’re tending to flowers, herbs, or vegetables, gardening offers a sense of calm and connection to nature.

Here are a few ideas of what to plant this Summer - 

• Herbs: Planting hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage can be a great choice for your garden this month.

• Late summer flowers: You can still plant vibrant flowers like sunflowers, dahlias, or chrysanthemums to brighten up your space.

• Vegetables: Crops like leeks, kale, and spinach can still be planted, and they will flourish as the season transitions into autumn.

The Grounds for Good Seed Balls are a good option to easily create a wildflower display. Plant these in Spring or Autumn for best results. 

So whether through art, nature, or simple acts of appreciation, I hope this season, you are able to take a moment to practice Hywl.