As the days become shorter and the temperatures get cooler, fall is the perfect time to embrace coziness, warmth, comfort and all things “Hygge.” Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish and Norwegian custom centered on simple pleasures that bottle up the feeling of coziness and warmth. According to Helen Russell, hygge is also the “Complete absence of anything emotionally overwhelming, while focusing on togetherness and prioritizing the people in your life.” 

While the concept of hygge seems simple, its impact can be substantial. According to the World Happiness Report, Finland, Norway and Scandinavian countries have been renowned as the happiest countries for many years. Embracing the hygge philosophy can be a simple way to uplift your teams and impact culture, even in a hospital environment.  

Rooted in Scandinavian culture, it is believed that “the origin of hygge was to improve mental health during long winter months,” shares Maya Thoresen. In fact, an original translation of old Norwegian hygge meant something like “well-being.”  

The concept of hygge focuses on self-care and how to care for your mental and physical health. As the effects of the pandemic continue to devastate healthcare workers, new and innovative ways to promote health are more top of mind than ever. Compound that with Seasonal Affective Disorder (commonly referred to as winter blues) quickly approaching, now is the optimal time to explore this philosophy. 

There are many health benefits to embracing the hygge concept:  

• Reduce Stress – In a hectic healthcare environment, moreso around the holiday season, hygge encourages you to take everything one step at a time and savor every moment. Slowing down and paying attention to things that make you happy can help reduce stress. 

Minimalistic design is a core belief of hygge, which requires reducing clutter and keeping only things that bring you joy. While this may not be an option in your workplace, having a more organized and minimalistic atmosphere at home helps keep the mind from being overwhelmed.  

In the recent blog “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” Wambi provides additional recommendations for managing stress including exercise, prioritizing sleep and expressing gratitude.  

• Practicing Mindfulness – Hygge encourages you to focus on one thing at a time while staying present in the moment. This awareness of thought is reflected in practicing mindfulness. In the blog “Mindfulness for Everyone” Wambi’s Product Evangelist Mel Alm shares the impact mindfulness has made on her personal journey with stress and burnout. 
   
• Coping Mechanism – One of the core beliefs of hygge is comfort. Feeling cozy, comfortables, and warm translates to feelings of safety and security. Embracing a hygge mindset helps you to feel comfortable and safe, even in challenging circumstances. 

Creating a hygge space provides the opportunity for your staff to embrace self-care and improve their mental health, which can not only improve culture, but also help with staff retention. The hygge concept remains rooted in simple pleasures and joyful moments, which makes for a great way to celebrate, even during busy times.  

Setting Up:  

• Declutter: The first step to hosting a hospital hygge is setting the stage with minimalistic design. Finding a breakroom or creating a space that can be organized and decluttered is key.  
• Battery operated candles: Candles are traditionally essential to hygge because the fire directly signifies warmth. For a safer alternative, incorporate battery operated or flameless candles for a sense of ambiance.  
• Lighting: Like candles, lighting can be essential for creating a cozy atmosphere. Incorporating softer lights can be a great escape from the fluorescent lights. Dimming the lights is also a great option.  
• Bulletin Board: Use announcement areas to promote the gathering ahead of time and keep it up after as a reminder of the importance of hygge. Explore our Embrace Joy resource hub for printables and ideas to decorate your board. The hygge inspired design features a Scadinavian border, a joyful quote, a list of seasonal celebrations and more.  
• Fresh flowers: Help connect staff members back to simple pleasures like smelling fresh cut flowers. This is a great alternative to enjoying nature when a walk outside is not possible. 

Activities:  

As hygge practices are primarily centered on self-care, there are simple activities you can incorporate into the celebration.  

• Embrace Joy: Share joy with others with self-care badges! Print and cut out each badge and let your team members pick whichever resonates the most with them. It will serve as a reminder after the celebration to continue to focus on their self-care.  
• Fill up your cup: Help your team members warm up with a coffee, cocoa or tea bar. Start by setting out fun and unique mugs that allow staff to show their personality. Embrace the seasons by providing creamers like pumpkin spice or peppermint. Finally, make the drinks extra special with add-ons like marshmallows or crushed peppermint sticks.  
• Unplug with a puzzle: Encourage team members to take a break from their screens and unplug from technology with a puzzle. This activity caters to busy individuals who might only have time to place a piece or two into the puzzle. When the puzzle is complete, it is a great visual representation of the amazing things that can be accomplished together as a team.  

• Spend time together: Although it may sound counterproductive, an important element of self-care is actually connecting and socializing with other people. Remember that this hygge celebration is an opportunity to connect with team members, check-in and see how they are feeling. It is also a great opportunity to recognize them for their hard work.  

Wambi makes it easy to celebrate the recognition that is being received from patients, team members and leaders. Print out inspiring Wambis that have been shared on the platform and reflect on the importance of time together.  

If you plan to provide holiday gifts for your staff, consider ways they can celebrate hygge at home like candles or blankets that they can utilize after their shift. With Wambi, providing gifts and surprises for your staff can be made easy and equitable. With a gamified approach, our employee recognition software provides team members with the opportunity to unlock surprises by sharing moments with patients and peers.  

Did you know that 41% of the U.S. population listens to podcasts? While their ease of access is certainly a major draw, it is their ability to fit into your personal and professional development needs that has contributed to their continued growth in popularity.  

Right now, one basic personal need that everyone is craving is human connection. Social distancing, masking and reduced visitations are all consequences of the pandemic that have changed human connection drastically. It has also shown us how vital human connection is to our daily lives. 

Many podcasts begin with an interview. While the audience is tuning in, they are not only listening to the conversation, but they are also invited to be part of it. The audience experiences the relationship between the host and the guest and feels welcomed into it, building a strong human connection.  

As healthcare leaders across the country share that engagement is playing a critical role in their hospital systems, there has never been a better time to start subscribing to Spotify or Apple podcast shows.   

The first step to getting started with podcasts is identifying your personal and professional growth goals and then intentionally adding shows to your library that can help you in those efforts. As mentioned, podcasts are increasingly popular because of their ease of use. Identify certain times or activities in your day where you can incorporate listening, like when you are driving, working out, getting ready for the day, cleaning and more.  

Here are some great show recommendations for the advancement of your healthcare leadership. 

1. Moments Move Us – The Moments Move Us podcast brings to light moments of human connection that shape the healthcare experience. Hosted by Rebecca Metter, CEO of Wambi, the show provides an opportunity for listeners to reflect on times when they experienced authentic connection, while hearing stories from exceptional leaders and the moments that inspired them.
2. Gut+Science: Named after the importance of having both data and experience in decision making, the Gut + Science podcast aims to improve employee engagement by inspiring and equipping leaders to help employees thrive at work. Wambi’s Director of Partnerships Nikki Lewallen connects with people-first leaders who share their powerful mindsets, experiences and tools that have helped them succeed.
3. Healthcare Soothsayers: Wambi’s Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Bonnie Clipper meets with healthcare leaders to discuss the trends and innovations that impact health, well-being, the future of work, and patient outcomes.
4. Being [at Work]: In today’s climate, it is more challenging than ever to be a leader. Thankfully Andrea Butcher, host of Being [at Work], shares daily encouragement, resources and strategies to be an effective leader. 
5. The Handoff Podcast: Are you interested in learning more about the nursing burnout crisis, how to reduce nurse turnover and improve retention? Host Dr. Nurse Dan Weberg discusses pressing topics in nursing like these on the Handoff Podcast. 
6. Seek Go Create: Join host Tim Winders to explore topics, stories and connections that will help you to redefine success, work and leadership. 
7. Dare to Lead: What better way to connect with the human experience than hearing from a New York Times best-selling author? Connect with host Brene Brown as she meets with innovative and creative leaders. 
8. At the Table: Pull up a chair and join Patrick Lencioni “At the Table” in his simple and approachable meetings with experts in leadership and business. 
9. Creating a New Healthcare: Do you want to be part of the transformation of healthcare? In Creating a New Healthcare, host Dr. Zeev Neuwirth shares his passion for humanizing healthcare and how leaders can embrace consumer-oriented, value-based healthcare. 
10.  The Nurses and Hypochondriacs Podcast: Storytellers from all walks of life come together to discuss healthcare hot topics in Nurses and Hypochondriacs hosted by Ersilia Pompilio.  

While building connection, each of these healthcare podcasts can also help you learn and grow. Leaders who are conscious of developing their emotional intelligence will be lifelong learners. Leaders with high emotional intelligence are distinguishable by their enthusiasm, patience, consistency, decisiveness, and warmth. As discussed in the blog “Why Emotional Intelligence Matters for Healthcare Leaders,” having a high emotional intelligence can lead to increased nurse retention.  

At Wambi, we want to invite you to stay connected with us. If you’re on a people-first leadership journey, check out more podcasts to help you with your leadership development. Also, peruse more of the offerings from our partners, the PeopleForwardNetwork. This is another place where Wambi’s new show Moments Move Us lives, alongside so many other standout leadership development podcasts. 

Inspired by: https://blog.feedspot.com/healthcare_leadership_podcasts/ 

https://www.edisonresearch.com/the-infinite-dial-2021-2/ 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/05/12/who-listens-to-podcasts-and-how-can-you-reach-them/ 

Sunday, October 10th is Mental Health Awareness Day. Although this annual observation began 29 years ago, its significance in today’s climate could not be more apparent. This past year has pushed us beyond our manageable emotional strain, tested our ability to focus, and caused many of us to re-evaluate our tried-and-true coping mechanisms. More than ever, we understand the impact of stress and the weight of elements we cannot control.  

If these feelings sound familiar, it’s important to acknowledge that you are not alone. Stress can often feel too overwhelming to manage, but there are helpful resources to guide you through processing emotions of fatigue and mental duress.  

1. Progress is not linear

Sometimes managing stress can feel as if you are riding a rollercoaster. There are ups and downs, good days and bad. It’s important to remember that progress is not linear. It is a constant journey that will be filled with both successes and set-backs. Even if you are taking two steps forward and one step backward, you are still making progress. Take time to acknowledge and celebrate how far you have come. 

2. What you’re feeling does not define you

Feeling low? Remember that feelings, good and bad, are part of the human experience, and not a reflection of who you are. It’s important to allow yourself to feel what you are feeling, but understand that you are so much more than your struggles and obstacles. While the goal is to address them, how you feel should never take away from how you see yourself. You are a whole person.  

3. You are appreciated and valued

It can be difficult on your worst days to remember how much you matter to so many people. You are not alone in your fears, but your role in this pandemic narrative is critical. If you take a moment to think about all the people who have been benefitted from your care, you’ll be reminded of how you have, and continue to make a difference. 

With the help of a recognition software like Wambi, you can experience the gratitude shared by peers, leaders, and patients every day. Need a boost of appreciation? Check out your past Wambis received and be reminded of how much people value your hard work. You can also send a note of gratitude to someone who made a difference in your day. Expressing gratitude leads people to be happier, healthier, and more optimistic. 

The more effective we are at nourishing ourselves, the more we can serve others without exhaustion or resentment. Feeling mental fatigue? Try the following: 

• Take breaks from your screens: Implement the 20-20-20 rule: For every 20 minutes you spend using a screen, look at something that is 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds. This rule designed to prevent eye strain can help minimize tension headaches.
   
• Try and get quality sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can be challenging with your work shifts, but it is important to prioritize sleep. Give yourself time to wind down before bed by turning off technology, managing light, and creating a comfortable space. 
   

• Reduce your news intake: Be mindful of how much time you spend watching the news, reading articles, and scrolling through social media. Witnessing devastating and challenging stories can increase your stress levels. 
   
• Move your body: Exercising is a great way to release tension, calm your mind, and increase blood circulation. Go for a walk or try the yoga poses on our Embrace Joy Everyday resource hub.
   
• Eat well, monitor caffeine and stay hydrated: What you put into your body can directly impact your mental health. Keep your brain nourished and functioning at its best by eating foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s also important to monitor your caffeine intake and stay hydrated. 
   
• Do mindfulness exercises: Practicing mindfulness can help reduce worry and increase compassion, while also improving one’s ability to cope with stress. Techniques include meditation, yoga, gratitude, and breathing exercises. 
   
• Tidy your space: A cluttered space creates disorganization and leads to increased stress levels. Take a page out of Marie Kondo’s book and spark joy while tidying up! 
   

• Get some sunshine: Exposure to sunshine can impact various body systems, especially mental health. A lack of sunshine can disrupt hormone levels, sleep cycles, and brain chemicals. Commonly referred to as “Winter Blues,” Seasonal Affective Disorder intensifies these concerns during winter months.

“I’ve read somewhere, ‘If you feel like you’re losing everything, remember trees lose their leaves every year, and they stand tall and wait for better days to come.” Sometimes we just need to stand still for a while and that’s okay. I find stillness is often misconstrued as unproductive but in fact, can be where the real work is done and growth begins. It’s a time of deep introspection, emotional processing, and listening to ourselves and our body, so we can do the work to be at our most abundant state of mind.  

As the seasons change, the trees shed their leaves, returning to their annual barren state, only to emerge full bloom in spring once more. I find inspiration and healing within nature and often look to these gentle giants as symbolic reminders of strength and reassurance. It’s all part of our seasons and living a balanced life.  

We often want to soak in all our feelings of happiness, but it’s just as important to revel in and accept our sadness rather than trying to expedite or rush through the process. Just like the trees, we must be patient with ourselves, trust the process, and a renewed sense of self will bloom. 

At Wambi, one of our core company values is gratitude.  We encourage team members to make gratitude a part of their meeting structures, pausing to take a few minutes of reflection to share messages received on Carepostcard.com.  Gratitude doesn’t always have to be steeped in positivity but can also mean grateful for the lows and the ability to discuss and feel supported in a safe environment.  While there are certainly still boundaries within a professional setting, I’m grateful for Wambi’s leadership who recognize the dimensionality of humans and natural need to experience peaks and valleys. You can be well composed, have a loving family and friends, really enjoy your job and still not be okay. And that’s okay. You can simultaneously be both grateful and sad; these emotions can, and do, co-exist.

In my field of Human Resources, I understand the importance of companies incorporating mental health awareness through implementing and championing resources like EAP programs, “walking” meetings and infuse culture programming with potential coping mechanisms such as yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation.” 

Thank you to Nursing World for providing free tools and apps to support nurse mental health.  

• Start with a Stress Self-Assessment: Answer 10 quick questions to check in and measure your stress level.  
• Writing about your experiences can help you process your thoughts. Learn more about the Narrative Expressive Writing Program and Journal  
• Guide to Sleeping Better and Restoring Energy: Learn more about the importance of sleep and fatigue management 

• After Work Checklist: Help decompress by following specific steps at the end of your workday.  

If you are suffering mentally and physically, don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Talking with individuals who might understand what you are going through can help you process your feelings, reduce your stress, and alleviate burnout. Learn how you can join a support group or call a warmline with Nursing World’s Nurses’ Guide to Mental Health Support Services.  

Be kind to yourself as you navigate this journey to being your best, healthiest self. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment and recovery will look different for every person. The important thing is to develop coping mechanisms, listen to what your mind and body need, and trust that you can recover from these turbulent times.  It’s okay to not be okay.