Autumn feels like the perfect season to talk all things Hygge - with the nights drawing in we could all do with a little Hygge happiness.
The Danish word Hygge (pronounced Hoo-ga) can’t translated into a single English word but it’s a name given to an atmosphere and experience of cosiness, wellbeing and happiness. No wonder the Danes are the happiest people in the world.
At its heart, Hygge is the joy one experiences from simple pleasures, being in nature, feeling connected with loved ones or the satisfaction one feels from a deep sense of gratitude. Hygge - as it turns out - shares a lot in common with my philosophy of being mindful of the simple things in life that bring us happiness and a sense of wellbeing. Studies show a clear link between gratitude and wellbeing; another important thing to remember when it comes to understanding Hygge is that it’s about experiences rather than 'stuff’.”
In The Little Book of Hygge (which is a lovely read) Hygge is broken down into a manifesto which includes:
♥ Atmosphere - turn down the lights
♥ Presence or mindfulness - be here now. Turn off the phone.
♥ Pleasure - coffee, chocolate and cookies
♥ Equality – ‘we’ over ‘me’
♥ Gratitude – take it in and be thankful for what you have right now
♥ Harmony – no place for competition or bragging
♥ Comfort – get comfy, take a break.
♥ Truce – no drama
♥ Togetherness – build relationships and narratives
♥ Shelter – a feeling of safety, of peace and security.
If you find the colder seasons harder going, you may well benefit form a big dose of Hygge happiness in your life. Here are 10 ways to get Hygge.
- Lighting
I love a bit of mood lighting and Hygge is all about creating a warmer light that feels cosy and comforting. Decorate your space and create a cosy refuge with lamps and warm light bulbs, fairy lights and candles. Candle light is so very Hygge– Danes burn more candles per head than anywhere in Europe, according to the European Candle Association
- A Hygge corner
A Hygge corner is a space in your house that feels like the perfect little cosy nook. It doesn’t need to be fancy - some cushions, blankets, low lighting and anything else that makes it snug. Use it for reading, journaling, meditating or for drinking something warm.
- Get out in Nature
Being out in nature is one of the sure fire ways of making me smile. Don’t let the cold stop you from getting out there. Wrap up warm and get some fresh air. Do a woodland walk; get to the coast or your local national trust site; or keep it simple and just get outside.
- Join the slow food movement
Taking a full afternoon on a weekend to cook or bake something is very hygge. Cooking can be so relaxing and nourishing and something you can do with kids too. So look up slow cooker recipes or even try making bread.
- Curl up with a hot drink
I’m a big believer that hot drinks are good for the soul and hot drinks are super hygge; Danes are Europe’s biggest coffee drinkers. But if you’re not a coffee fan then go for another hot drink. Here’s my recipe for a healthy hot chocolate.
- Technology free time
Technology is so pervasive and it can be too easy to connect to a device whist disconnecting with those around you. Set aside some regular technology free time with your family and enjoy some togetherness.
- Snuggle up in your comfy clothes and woollies
Nothing beats putting on some comfy clothes and some warm wooly socks or toasty slippers and getting tucked up under a throw – anytime of day.
- Get together with family or friends and enjoy a simple meal together
We’re not talking fancy dinner parties – a hygge get together is relaxed and informal. It’s all about simple, wholesome comfort-food. Think warm soups, stews and open sharing platters.
- Start a gratitude journal
Studies show a clear link between gratitude and wellbeing. So get cosy in your hygge nook and write down 3 things you are grateful for each day
- Start a new tradition
Another way to foster that social connection and sense of togetherness is by creating traditions. It might be having a regular move night with your family or friends, having a monthly ‘games’ night, or going with friends to the annual local fireworks display Just do something that will bring you and your friends or family closer together and create memories.
Danes may have a head start on Hygge but by making a few small changes to our outlook, we can all can get in on the act.
To learn more about Hygge I really recommend The Little Book of Hygge, which is such an easy and enjoyable read or for more Hygge inspiration check out my Hygge board on Pinterest.
