Hurkle-Durkle: A Little Winter Morning Magic
by Tamara Neale
Have you felt it lately? The pull to linger in bed just a little longer? With the winter solstice nearly here, the darkest days of the year seem to invite us to pause, slow down, and savor the quiet. And honestly, I think we should lean into it.
You know that delicious moment when you’re awake but not quite ready to face the day? When the idea of leaving your warm, cozy bed feels almost unthinkable? The Scots have the perfect word for this: hurkle-durkle. It’s not about being lazy; it’s about embracing a moment of comfort and stillness before the busyness begins.
Savoring the Cozy Moments
Imagine this: you’re wrapped up in blankets, the pillow cradles your head just right, and the world outside is still hushed. There’s no rush, no urgency—just you and the warmth of your cocoon. It’s a fleeting, magical moment, and it deserves to be cherished.
Take a deep breath and notice the softness around you. Feel the weight of the covers, the gentle rhythm of your breath. Let yourself be in that space for a while. These small pauses are powerful, reminding us that there’s beauty in starting the day slowly, intentionally, and with kindness for ourselves.
Turning Hurkle-Durkle Into a Ritual
What if you gave yourself permission to start every morning this way? Even on the busiest days, a few minutes of mindful stillness can set a completely different tone for the day ahead. Here’s how you can make hurkle-durkle a part of your mornings:
- Notice the little things. The softness of the sheets, the coolness of the air on your face, the warmth of the blankets—it’s like a momentary hug.
- Breathe deeply. Inhale calm, exhale any tension. A single, intentional breath can do wonders.
- Think of one small joy. Maybe it’s the promise of coffee or the chance to enjoy a quiet moment before the day begins.
Because You Deserve It
In a world that often celebrates rushing and productivity, taking a few extra minutes to hurkle-durkle can feel like a quiet rebellion—and yet, it’s such a gift to yourself. These moments aren’t wasted; they’re how we ground ourselves, recharge, and step into the day with a little more calm and clarity.
So tomorrow morning, when the alarm goes off, let yourself pause. Stay cocooned for a few precious minutes, and let the day unfold gently, on your own terms.
You deserve it.
With love,
Tamara xo