A few years ago, the whole world fell in love with a Danish word: hygge, that cozy feeling of candles, blankets and warm drinks on a dark evening. But the French have their own version, and they've had it for decades.
They call it le cocooning.
An English word, made French
The word was popularized in the 1980s by an American trend forecaster to describe people retreating into the comfort of their homes. The French adopted it and made it their own. Today, se faire un petit cocooning means giving yourself a cozy evening in, wrapped up and unhurried.
French cocooning shares a lot with hygge: softness, warmth, staying in. But it has its own flavor: a little more elegant, a little more sensual, a little more solitary.
How to cocoon, the Parisian way
1. Make it beautiful, not just comfortable. A cashmere throw rather than a fleece, a good candle rather than overhead light, flowers on the table even in winter. 2. Dress for yourself. Soft wool, silky pajamas, a robe that feels like a treat. Cocooning isn't about letting yourself go; it's about pampering yourself. 3. Eat something simple and delicious. A soup, good bread, a piece of cheese, a square of dark chocolate. Served on a real plate. 4. Read, really read. A novel, a magazine like Saisons, poetry. For an hour, with no phone in reach. 5. Listen to something lovely. Old French songs, a record, a piano piece, a radio drama. 6. Take a bath, or a very long shower, by candlelight. 7. Go to bed early, with clean sheets. Perhaps the most Parisian luxury of all.
Cocooning versus hiding
The difference is intention. Cocooning is a choice to rest and enjoy your own company, not an escape from life. You come out of a good cocooning evening rested and a little more yourself.
The perfect companion
The First Letter is a short sensory meditation on receiving a letter, made to be read wrapped in a blanket or listened to by candlelight. It's free, with a sample of my magazine, "(meditating) On Art". Cocooning, with a little extra beauty.
Remember to take as much time as you need, and meet me at the next one.
Love, Evi