Finding moments of peace, calm and connection is more important than ever in today’s world. That’s why my new book, Would You Rather…? The Cozy Edition: 300 Fun & Hygge Questions for Adults, Kids & Every Cozy Soul, is such a gentle gift to the spirit. It’s a playful, heartwarming Q&A book filled with cozy and hygge-inspired questions designed to bring laughter, reflection and calm right to your hands.
But did you know that engaging in simple, cozy activities—such as thoughtful conversation, playful questions, or creative hobbies—not only warms the heart but can lower stress hormones and restore a sense of inner peace?
The Science of Stress Relief Through Cozy Hobbies
Gentle hobbies that foster mindfulness and calm can have lasting impacts on our health. Credit: Freephotocc.
Developing cozy habits and a hygge mentality are about more than just aesthetic photos—they’re about improving our health for the long term. I mentioned previously part of the reason The Cozy Bae is such a personal project for me is because of the need to make lifestyle changes for my health. The great news is research supports embracing the cozy and hygge lifestyle for this very reason!
Lower Cortisol, Greater Calm
Research consistently shows engaging in creative and relaxing pastimes helps lower cortisol levels—the body’s primary stress hormone. In one example, an art-making session of just 45 minutes led to significantly reduced cortisol in 75% of participants.1 In the same vein, leisurely activities such as gardening and other creative hobbies have been shown to measurably reduce stress, improve moods and help foster positive psychological functioning.2,3
Hygge’s Healing Touch
Embracing the Norwegian and Danish concept of hygge—a lifestyle rooted in warmth, comfort and mindful connection—has been linked to emotional well-being, reduced anxiety and improved self-compassion.4 That hygge mindset of slowing down, connecting with people and savoring the simple moments can fundamentally recalibrate our sense of inner peace and how we view ourselves and our world.
Hobbies Can Calm Our Insides
Beyond creative outlets, other calming activities—spending time in nature, laughing, listening to music, and even enjoying dark chocolate—have been shown to reduce inflammation, boost serotonin and endorphins, and relieve stress without needing meditation.5,6 Engaging in any hobby—particularly cozy and comforting ones—can literally shift our neurochemistry toward calm.
Cozy Questions to Connect and Calm
This little book isn’t just playful—it’s restorative. Flipping through its gentle, imaginative questions invites presence, curiosity and delight. It creates a space for mindful conversation, laughter and connection whether you're:
• Curling up solo—journaling responses to cozy "Would You Rather...?" questions offers a quiet way to reflect and reset.
• Gathering with family or friends—communal laughter, storytelling and meaningful time together offer opportunities to ease into deeper bonds.
• Creating a hygge atmosphere—whether bundled under a blanket alone by candlelight with a cup of tea or sharing smiles with loved ones, simply pressing pause in your day offers a chance to be present and appreciate the everyday moments.
Calm and cozy activities, such as thoughtful conversations over books, can improve our health. Credit: wal_172619.
Cozy is the Way
Chronic stress chips away at our well-being—disrupting sleep, weakening our immunity to illness and even impacting our relationships. Activities that help calm our nervous system, lower cortisol and foster connection aren’t indulgences—they’re health essentials. Would You Rather…? The Cozy Edition is a form of self-care. It's effortless and mood-boosting, a momentary pause in a chaotic world. A way to reconnect inwardly while connecting outwardly. It’s simple. Inviting. Nourishing.
So slow down and cozy up with your copy of Would You Rather…? The Cozy Edition today, and begin making warm, meaningful moments—one gentle question at a time.
[1] Kaimal, G., Ray, K. & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Responses Following Art Making. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74–80. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2016.1166832.
[2] Weir, K. (2019). Give Me a Break. American Psychological Association, 50(1), 40. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/01/break.
[3] Conner, T. S., DeYoung, C. G., & Silvia, P. J. (2016). Everyday creative activity as a path to flourishing. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 13(2), 181–189. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2016.1257049.
[4] Clarke, J. (2021). Benefits of the Cozy Wellness Trend Hygge. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/health-benefits-of-hygge-4164281.
[5] Morales, M. (2025). 5 Daily Activities That Lower Cortisol—No Meditation Required. Vogue. https://www.vogue.com/article/lower-cortisol.
[6] Hotz, J. (2025). Five free, easy ways to fight chronic inflammation. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/global/2025/jul/22/how-to-fight-chronic-inflammation-free.