18th Dec, 2021
In the last couple of years and particularly in the winter months, you would have surely come across this wonderful term: Hygge.
But what in the world does hygge mean exactly?
The Danish concept of ‘Hygge,’ refers to finding comfort, pleasure, and warmth in simple, soothing things such as a cozy atmosphere or the feeling of friendship. The Scandinavian term encompasses a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being found through cherishing the little things.
Denmark is often said to be the happiest country in the world. That’s mainly because of one thing: ‘hygge.’
Nurturing one’s close relationships over mulled wine, a picnic, a board game, or a movie is perhaps the most ‘Hygge’ thing of all. If you’ve ever spent time with friends and left feeling like you’re still wrapped in a hug, that’s ‘Hygge.’
‘Hygge’ is derived from a sixteenth-century Norwegian term, hugga, meaning ‘to comfort’ or ‘to console,’ which is related to the English word “hug.” Associated with relaxation, indulgence, and gratitude, ‘Hygge’ has long been considered a part of the Danish national character and winter is considered the most ‘hygge’ time of the year.
You know ‘Hygge’ when you feel it. It is when you are cuddled up on a sofa with a loved one, or sharing comfort food and your favourite tipple with your closest friends. It is those crisp blue mornings when the light through your window is just right.
Who better than Meik Wiking to be your guide to all things ‘Hygge’? Meik is CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen and has spent years studying the magic of Danish life. In his beautiful, inspiring book, ‘The Little Book of Hygge – The Danish way to living well,’ he helps you be more ‘Hygge’: from picking the right lighting and planning a dinner party through to creating an emergency hygge kit and even how to dress. He is committed to finding out what makes people happy and has concluded that ‘Hygge’ is the magic ingredient that makes Danes the happiest nation in the world.
Starting this weekend, instead of complaining about the bad weather this winter, light some candles, sip your Hot Toddy or Irish Coffee and relax with that book you’ve been meaning to read for months.
Or if you’re feeling more social, cook up your favourite recipe, open your choicest Malt, light a bonfire and invite your friends over for a social evening at home.
Have fun getting ‘hygge’ with it and stay blessed forever!