Have you heard of Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah")?
It is a Danish and Norwegian concept that encompasses a feeling of coziness, comfort, and contentment often associated with simplicity and togetherness. It involves creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with loved ones, lighting candles, enjoying good food, or curling up with a good book. Hygge is more than just a mood or a style; it’s a cultural mindset focused on well-being, connection, and savoring the moment.
For Danes, hygge is considered a key part of their national identity and contributes to their sense of happiness and satisfaction.
I like to believe that the concept of hygge likely evolved as a cultural response to the long, dark, and cold winters that are typical in Scandinavian countries. These environmental conditions encourage people to focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere indoors to counteract the harshness outside. Hygge emphasizes finding joy in small, comforting moments, which helps maintain a sense of well-being and connection during the challenging winter months.
By prioritizing light (like candles or fireplaces), warmth (cozy blankets, wool socks), and social connection (sharing meals, spending time with loved ones), hygge turns what could otherwise feel bleak into an opportunity for intentional comfort and happiness. It’s a beautiful way to embrace and even celebrate the season rather than endure it.
So - I am Swiss, not Dane or Norwegian, but this resonates with me so well! Pretty much the day after Halloween I start craving fluffy socks, cinnamon scented candles, gingerbread and just warmth in general.
The launch of Starbucks' Christmas Blend can't be long now! Speaking of Starbucks. The year I joined (2004) the marketing team was working on a campaign that encouraged store partners (employees) to enhance the customer experience by doing the following:
- Create warmth!
- Create atmosphere!
There were about two or three more, I don't remember what those were. Today I think the overall concept was their way of describing hygge.
How about you? What was a recent hygge moment you've experienced?
Create warmth is the best thing I try to do for house parties.Fluffy blankets and a murder mystery book to curl up with,is my favorite hygge moment.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite hygge moment is curling up with a book under my favorite blanket.I also love lighting candles and feel good paintings to bring a feeling of happiness in my home.
ReplyDeleteThat is, indeed, how it evolved. I love all things hygge and do all I can to make it a way of life all year long. My most recent favorite moment involved a delicious cup of tea and a good book.
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