How to Hygge
10 Easy Ways to Achieve Hygge
Hygge (pronounced "hoo-ga") is a Danish and Norwegian concept that encompasses a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being through simple, everyday experiences. It's not just a word; it's a cultural philosophy that has gained popularity worldwide. While it doesn't have a direct translation into English, it's often described as a feeling of warmth and comfort that comes from enjoying life's little pleasures and creating a sense of intimacy and togetherness.
At its core, hygge is about creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that promotes relaxation, connection, and a sense of security. It's often associated with the colder months when people seek to counteract the darkness and chill with cozy indoor activities. Hygge emphasizes slowing down, being present in the moment, and valuing the simple joys of life, like sharing a warm cup of tea, enjoying the company of loved ones by a fireplace, or snuggling up with a good book on a rainy day.
Hygge is closely tied to the idea of mindful living, where people focus on the positive aspects of life, cherish relationships, and create environments that promote a sense of ease and contentment. It's about finding pleasure in life's ordinary moments and appreciating the beauty in simplicity. Whether it's through soft lighting, comfortable textiles, meaningful decorations, or meaningful conversations, the goal of hygge is to cultivate an atmosphere of coziness and well-being that enriches one's quality of life.
1. Lighting
Great lighting is crucial for creating hygge in your home. Opt for warm, diffused lighting through candles, fairy lights, and soft lamps to set a tranquil mood that encourages unwinding and connection. Whatever you do, don't turn on those fluorescent overhead lights!
2. Presence
Hygge is about slowing down, being present, and enjoying the moment. Limit the time you spend with your electronics and enjoy the restorative benefits of just being.
3. Pleasure
What could be more pleasurable than the perfect cup of coffee paired with a decadent dessert? Danes are all about their comfort foods, and you won't find a home in Denmark without a tin of cookies. Life is meant to be enjoyed, right?!
4. Equality
Sharing is caring! Share the household chores. Share the spotlight. Share your love for those around you. Hygge is all about "we" over "me."
5. Gratitude
Develop a gratitude practice that encourages you to appreciate the small joys in life, fostering a positive outlook and amplifying the sense of hygge in your everyday experiences.
“Hygge gives us the language, the objective, and the methods for planning and preserving happiness - and for getting a little bit of it every day. ”
6. Harmony
Hygge is humble. It is about being confident enough in your own awesomeness that you don't need to brag about your successes. Hygge is caring about the harmony of the group, and ensuring that everyone feels the love.
7. Comfort
Cozy sweaters. Fuzzy blankets. Wool socks. Crackling fireplaces. Naps on a Sunday afternoon. Mulled wine & hot cocoa. Hygge is comfort!
8. Truce
Save the drama for your mama. Kidding. But remember when your mama taught you never to discuss sex, politics, or religion at a dinner party? Turns out that's very hygge of her. There is no place for wasting energy on conflict or drama. Call a truce and invite friends and family to your home with an open heart and a clear mind.
9. Togetherness
Research from The Happiness Institute of Denmark suggests that the social relationships make people happiest. Intimate gatherings are preferred to allow for quality time, and creating & sharing memories. Want tips on how to throw the ultimate dinner party? Click the link below...
10. Shelter
Create a safe little "hyggekrog", or cozy nook. This is the place in your home where you go to snuggle up with a book and a cup of tea. Mine is my favorite leather chair, in front of our big stone fireplace. We all need a safe haven sometimes!
I hope you are able to work some of the elements of hygge into your daily life! The best way to bring the physical elements of hygge into your home are candles, mood lighting, cozy blankets, natural elements like wood, and lots and lots of sweets. And wine. Happy hygge-ing!
From the original article published in 2017
Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, this Danish secret to living a happy life has rapidly become an interior design niche. Not something you can buy, hygge is a state of mind achieved when your environment is composed of elements of safety, warmth, & coziness. Hygge goes far beyond the aesthetics of your living room. It's a way of life. In his bestselling guide The Little Book of Hygge, author Meik Wiking provides a simple outline of the 10 principles of achieving hygge.
