Coffee Drinkers: Are You Doing It Wrong?? There's a Cozy Swedish Coffee Tradition You Need to Know About!

Picture it: Sicily, 1922.

Just kidding, haha. Instead, picture this:

It's dark and peaceful, and the rest of your house is sleeping soundly. The only sound that fills the air is the gentle hum of the furnace - a cozy reminder that you're safe and warm.

And then, you hear it. The soft gurgle of the coffee maker as it finishes brewing a fresh pot. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelopes you, and you breathe it in deeply. You make your way to the kitchen, and as you select your favorite mug, you hear the satisfying pour of hot, liquid energy. You take a sip, and the smooth, velvety coffee warms your body from the inside out. You close your eyes and relish the moment, letting the quiet, comforting warmth wash over you. In this moment, nothing else matters but the simple pleasure of a perfect cup of coffee. The start of a new day is upon you, and the world is yours to explore, but for now, you're content to simply be, wrapped up in the cozy embrace of your morning ritual.

And then it's 2pm and you glug down a lukewarm afternoon joe to help you wrap up your work day.

Noooot the same. Sound familiar? This is totally how it is for me most days.

But have you ever heard of fika? I want to tell you about it - but you should know, it's not exactly attainable on a daily basis. At least not for most of us. But it's dreamy, and if you can squeak it into your Saturday or Sunday on a regular basis, I'm thinking you won't regret it.

So what exactly is fika, and where did it come from?

Fika is a Swedish tradition that involves taking a break from your day to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and a sweet treat. It's a moment of pause and relaxation - a chance to slow down and savor the simple pleasures in life. Which, you know, we could all use more of.

The word "fika" is Swedish for "coffee break," but it's so much more than just that. Fika is a social activity - a way to connect with friends, family, or coworkers over a shared moment of indulgence. It's a daily ritual in Sweden, with many workplaces and schools taking a break in the morning and afternoon for fika. (Um, jealous.)

The origins of fika are a bit murky, but it's believed to have started in the 18th century as a way for Swedish farmers to take a break from their hard work and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea with their families. Over time, fika became more of a social activity, and today it's a beloved tradition that's part of the Swedish way of life.

Sooo, how do I fika?

Fika is such a simple, easy tradition to fit a moment of calm intentionality into any day. And the best part is, you don't need to spend a lot of money or time to do it. Here are some tips for practicing fika in a way that makes sense for every day life:

1. Make it simple

Fika is all about simplicity and relaxation, so don't stress yourself out trying to make it perfect. A cup of coffee or tea and a homemade cookie or piece of fruit is all you need. You can make even store bought cookies or treats feel fancy and intentional by putting them on a cute plate. Done.

2. Set the mood

Fika is best enjoyed in a cozy and inviting space. Create a little nook in your home with a comfy chair, a warm blanket, and some candles or fairy lights. Bonus points for incorporating some secondhand decor elements, like vintage teacups or a thrifted throw pillow.

I often do a little fika action at the kitchen table with just a cute mug, maybe some fresh flowers, a vintage floral plate, and something I baked from a box.

3. Invite a friend

Fika is a social activity, so don't be afraid to invite a friend or neighbor to join you. It's a great way to catch up and connect over something simple and enjoyable. Matt and I will schedule in a weekend fika here and there as a way to set time aside in our days to just hang out, chat, and have a treat. It makes a great little stress-free day date!

4. Take it outside

If the weather is nice, why not take your fika outside? Find a park or a quiet spot in your backyard and enjoy your coffee and treat in the fresh air. Sounds like heaven, really.

5. Experiment with flavors

While traditional fika treats in Sweden are usually sweet, there's no reason you can't mix it up and try something savory or spicy. Experiment with different teas or flavored syrups for your coffee. I made a Pinterest board called Cottagecore Baking that is filled with recipes I want to try for our afternoon fikas this spring and summer if you need some inspiration! (But again, box mixes are totally acceptable.)

6. Ban Technology

Make it a rule to leave the phones, ipads, laptops, and whatever else away from the spot where you're having your fika. Two exceptions: 1) you're using something to play soft music to enjoy during your fika, but set it and forget it . Or 2) you want to snap a photo of the moment. Get the shot, put it away. Be present and enjoy!

There's really no pressure to do fika "right", or to replicate the experience from one day to the next. Pour yourself a coffee, grab a treat, and anything goes! As long as you're there in the moment.

Incorporating fika into a daily or weekly (even monthly) routine is a simple way to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. And with its emphasis on simplicity, coziness, and connection, it's the perfect fit for anyone who craves a little more intentionality in their life. Especially those who want that perfect cup of coffee feeling all the time!

Jot a little fika into your calendar. Right now, do it! ;) Pick a day.

And let me know what you bake! 
PS - all the photos on this post are from past fikas Matt and I have shared!