Hygge: Your Guide to Comfort, Coziness and Improved Well-Being
Hygge (pronounced “hue-gah”) is a Danish concept that encompasses feelings of contentment, warmth and coziness. It stresses the importance of taking time to appreciate the simple pleasures in life such as good company or a steaming mug of coffee. Hygge has been an important part of the Danish culture dating back to the early 1800’s, the word itself derived from the Norwegian word “koselig” which means well-being. Interestingly enough, despite having to endure long, cold winters where it is dark for up to 17 hours a day, Denmark consistently ranks as one of the world’s happiest countries! Their secret? Hygge.
So how does one “hyggelig” in their daily life and how can it help?
First, it is important to acknowledge that we live in a fast paced society where we are overscheduled, overworked and always on the go. We are not taking the time to slow down and just be still which leads to feelings of anxiety, depression and burnout. When we become too heavily focused on one area of our lives, such as work, to the detriment of other areas we are left feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. Practicing hygge can help to restore that crucial balance in our lives and create a sense of improved well-being.
The best way to bring hygge into your life is to start by focusing on your environment. Your home should be your sanctuary, a place that is filled with all of the things that bring you comfort and peace. Arrange your rooms to take advantage of the natural light as sunshine is a great way to boost your mood. At night, grab the candles! The Danish love their candles and for good reason, soft candlelight is very soothing and calming. Add comfortable throw pillows to your couches and beds and keep warm cozy blankets in all of the rooms. Stack a few good books on your end tables, perhaps something that is uplifting and inspiring. Bring a little nature into your home, it adds gorgeous color and texture all around the house. House plants and succulents are a nice low maintenance choice and for other natural elements, try stacking wood by the fireplace or filling a rustic bowl with pretty stones and rocks. The idea is to fill your home with cozy elements that make you feel good. When your environment is calm, so are you.
Another element of hygge is indulging mindfully in food and drink that nourish your soul. Denmark actually ranks as one of the top ten coffee consuming nations in the world so if you want to live like a Dane, grab a mug and enjoy! In cold weather, hearty soups and stews are always on the menu and freshly baked treats are a staple that are meant to be savored and enjoyed. Keep plenty of other warm beverages on hand from hot chocolate to tea and always sip slowly, appreciate the flavors and aromas as you drink. At mealtimes, the idea is to slow down and enjoy the experience of eating which also promotes better digestion and lessens the likelihood of overeating.
Lastly, and most importantly, hygge is about spending time with those that you love and taking the opportunity to appreciate their company and conversation. Invite friends and family into your home to enjoy a good meal, a cup of coffee or to have a little fun. Try hosting a game night or a storytelling hour by the fireplace. Social interactions are crucial for happiness and contentment so always make time to see the people that you love. Nothing will fill your heart more than time spent together.
Although hygge is often associated with the dark, cold winter months you might be surprised to learn that hygge can still be practiced in sunny, warm months of the year as well. Some great ways to practice “summer hygge” are:
Fill your home with fresh, colorful flowers
Host a BBQ or dinner party under the stars
Visit a local farm and pick some fresh, ripe fruit
Spend time in a hammock or on a porch swing
Pack a few sandwiches, grab a blanket and have a picnic
Go to the beach and watch the sunset
Spend some time in nature and go camping
Hang your laundry on the line and let it dry in the warm, summer air
Open your windows and let the summer breeze waft through your home
Host a bonfire in your yard and make s’mores
Go for a stroll or bike road in a local park
Take a nap in the summer sun
There is no one way to hygge so choose design elements and activities that resonate with you and bring you comfort and peace. The idea is to create an environment and lifestyle for yourself that promotes happiness, fulfillment and overall well-being. Life will always be full of stressors but we have two choices, we can let it wear us down OR we can design our lives in such a way that we are thriving regardless of the challenges that we face. The choice is yours.
