Have you heard of the Scandinavian (scandi) lifestyle set to take 2017 – Lagom? You may have heard about Hygge a Danish word which translates to comfort and cosiness. A popular trend in the last two years with fab marketing hype.However, unlike Hygge ( a word I can’t pronounce), going Lagom is more than just a fashion statement or rising trend.

I got to know about this word for the first time late last year, when I received an email from Ikea family inviting me to apply and take part in the LiveLagom project which helps make living a more healthy and sustainable lifestyle easier.

I was so thrilled to have been selected to take part in this nationwide project which includes £300 worth of Ikea products, bespoke advice and a personal shopping experience.

So what does it all mean?

Lagom is a Swedish word which simply means “the right amount is best”

We had our first induction workshop last year and a home visit in December with project leader Richard. I was grateful for the free perks we had at the workshop, a handy lunch bag,  FRESMALTID lunch box, BEHÅLLARE  water bottle (I now take everywhere with me 🙂and have saved on buying bottled water when out and about. It’s also handy for helping me stay well hydrated while breastfeeding and we got a LiveLAGOM thermometer, which now lives in our living room.

At the workshop, I was amazed at certain facts about the way we use water. Did you know that when you leave the tap running even for a few seconds you waste litres of water (this is why using a dishwasher is more efficient than hand washing)? I learnt about cost savings to energy bill from switching to LED light bulbs and we got to see how Ikea Gateshead recycle so efficiently. #ikeazerowaste is inspiring.

Our resolution for the New Year

• Reduce energy Bills ( save on both gas and electricity)
• Save water (improve our water footprint)
• Recycle more efficiently

We are very excited about the move to our new home this year and as part of this move, I am hoping to start the Lagom way. We would work on how to store all Baby T’s toys and will de-clutter all our stuff in the loft and bedrooms prior to our move. This would involve recycling some old stuff, giving away items we no longer need but are useful to charity, friends and online sales. I will share more about this later.

What we already do well: #lovebatchcooking. A tradition that was passed on to me from my mum.Meals made in large batches can often last us a week or more.

A useful tip for eating your frozen meals: You can always garnish or complement each of the defrosted meal with fresh vegetables, freshly boiled sides like rice, potatoes, pasta etc.

However, there are still some areas with regards to food waste that we can improve on.

I look forward to sharing our #LiveLAGOM experience with you.