Bringing Wellness to the Art of Danish Tea Time
Tea Time:
A Beloved Ritual
Flickers of candlelight, the gentle hiss of steam escaping from rose-covered teacups, and the warm aroma of banana bread filling the air—tea time has become a cherished ritual in our home. What began as a monthly gathering with my sister-in-law and our kids has since evolved into a daily practice shared between my children and me.
These days, when the clock strikes 4:00 p.m., the kettle sings, the candles are lit, and the table fills with the sound of little voices. My kids chatter away, sharing their stories of imagination, silly one-liners, and what happened at school that day. There’s something magical about these moments—a sense of warmth, joy, and connection that feels like an old friend.
I recently learned I’m 1/4 Danish and found a deeper connection to this ritual with that discovery. It resonates with the Danish concept of hygge—a word you’ve likely heard before. Hygge is often described as the art of creating cozy, comforting moments, but it’s more than that. It’s about cultivating togetherness, savoring life’s small pleasures, and finding contentment in the present.
While I didn’t grow up with stories of Danish tea traditions, hygge feels instinctual to me—a quiet sense of belonging that comes alive in these simple moments. As the afternoon sun dips lower and the table fills with warmth and chatter, I realize tea time has become a way for my family to pause, connect, and embrace the joy of being together.
Inspired by these cozy moments with my family, I wanted to explore how tea aligns with the Danish spirit of hygge. In The Little Book of Hygge, Meik Wiking explains that hot drinks are a key element of hygge, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something inherently soothing about holding a steaming cup, surrounded by soft candlelight and loved ones.
So, if you’re ready to embrace the Danish-inspired art of tea time, here’s your guide—complete with a touch of hygge and a nourishing menu designed to nurture both body and soul.
Drink Like a Dane
Though coffee dominates Danish culture, a steaming cup of tea perfectly captures hygge’s warmth and simplicity. Here are some teas to help you embrace a Danish-inspired sense of comfort:
Earl Grey Tea
Perfect for unwinding after a long day, it enhances cozy moments with its relaxing citrus aroma.
Flavor Profile: Bold with hints of citrus.
Benefits: Earl Grey contains L-theanine, an amino acid that may promote relaxation and focus without making you drowsy. It also contains natural antioxidants that support overall wellness.
Chai Tea (Spiced Black Tea)
Chai tea is a blend of black tea and spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Its warming spices make it perfect for creating a comforting atmosphere during colder months.
Flavor Profile: Warm, aromatic spices.
Benefits: This tea is traditionally valued for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.
Make Your Own Frugt Te (Fruit Tea)
While fruit tea isn’t a historic Danish staple, it has become a popular trend influenced by modern wellness movements. Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients align perfectly with the Danish spirit of savoring life’s small pleasures.
Flavor Profile: Vibrant, tangy, fruity, and sweet.
Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, fruit tea blends are a delicious way to support wellness.
How to Make It:
Blend your choice of the following dried ingredients:
Apple pieces
Hibiscus petals
Rose hips
Elderberries
Orange peel
Raspberries
Use 1-2 teaspoons of the blend per cup of hot water. Steep for 5-7 minutes.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to six months.
The Reimagined Menu
Danes are known for their buttery pastries, but I wanted to add a healthy twist for tea time. Here are some ideas to choose from:
Savory Options
Veggie Sandwich: A fan favorite in our household!
Whole Wheat Tortilla Pinwheels: Made with rotisserie chicken, tomatoes, spinach, provolone, and avocado spread.
Bruschetta: Made with whole wheat or sourdough baguette.
Mediterranean Sandwich: Made with sprouted grain bread, hummus, olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Sweet Treats
Yogurt Parfaits: Combine plain Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, fresh berries, and granola.
Dark Chocolate: Choose organic chocolate with 70% or higher cacao content for its antioxidants and mood-boosting serotonin.
Snacks
Sliced Veggies with Greek Yogurt Dip.
Fresh Fruit.
Mixed Raw Nuts.
Seed Crackers with an Assortment of Cheeses.
Set the Mood
Transform tea time into a sensory experience with these simple touches:
Lighting: Use soft lighting or cozy candles to create a warm ambiance.
Textures: Incorporate natural materials like a cheesecloth tablecloth or linen napkins.
Music: Play a soothing playlist to complete the atmosphere.
Add in Mindfulness
Mindfulness is at the heart of hygge—it’s about slowing down and appreciating the moment. Here are a few ways to infuse tea time with presence and gratitude:
Take turns around the table sharing what you’re grateful for.
Practice active listening and slow meaningful conversation.
Truly savor your tea and every bite of your food to stay present.
Beyond Tea Time
A Call for Everyday Hygge
Hygge doesn’t have to stop at tea time. Bring it into your mornings with a cozy routine—a warm cup of tea or coffee, a good book, and soft candlelight. Or carve out small slices of time during your day to pause, find joy in intentional moments, and truly savor them. These simple acts blend hygge with mental and emotional wellness.
Share Your Cozy Moments
I hope this guide helps you create your own tea time rituals with wellness and togetherness in mind. I’d love to hear how you create hygge in your tea time—whether through your favorite blends, recipes, or rituals. Don’t forget to tag me @thelakesidechair so we can inspire each other!
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical or health advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before significantly changing your diet or wellness routine.
