Hygge – The Danish Happiness Hack You Have To Try

It’s hard to define the Danish word “hygge” (pronounced hoo-ga), but it describes something you’ve definitely felt before.  It’s the fuzzy feeling we get when spending time with loved ones. Or, the sense of calm we feel while curling up with a great book near the fireplace. Hygge is best described as “coziness of the soul,” and the Danes consciously build their lives around it. Despite the long, harsh winters in Denmark, people who live there are considered some of the happiest on the planet. In “The Little Book of Hygge,” author Meik Wiking elaborates on the pursuit of this elusive feeling. At its heart is an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Here are some hygge tips you can easily implement in your daily lives:

Connect With a Few Close Friends

Few things spell happiness more than friendship. Togetherness and hygge are synonymous, and most of its principles build on the idea of closeness. But hygge socializing doesn’t involve lavish parties, instead, it’s about enjoying the company of a few close friends, no more than three or four.

Good Food and Drinks

Hygge is all about no-frills, slow dining that oozes comfort. Think about the smell of fresh-baked bread or cakes in the oven. It could be a soulful stew or a warm grilled cheese sandwich. Anything home-cooked – no matter how small – can add more hygge into your life. And then there are the drinks, of course! Indulge in hot chocolate, mulled wine, coffee, or tea. Remember to sip slowly.

Turn the Lights Down Low

Create the right atmosphere with dimmed lights. Candles or the light from a fireplace are perfect to set the atmosphere. In case that’s not possible, consider low-temperature lamps. Experience hygge in nature, during the first hour of sunset and the last hour of sunrise. These are times when the natural sunlight is at its most magical.

Comfortable Clothes

Bring out your personal style, but remember to keep outfits comfortable and casual. Remember that hygge is all about warmth. So, layer up with sweaters, scarves, and warm socks. Have a throw or warm blanket nearby. If it’s warm where you live, wear breezy fabrics and light colors.

Hygge at Home

Create hygge corners around the house. Depending on your definitions of coziness, hygge corners can have books, candles, music, plenty of cushions, or your favorite bottle of wine. Elevate the space with handcrafted items: antiques, wooden furniture, artwork, or macrame. It’s a corner that makes you and your guests feel warm and safe.