Hygge is a good way to cope with autumn melancholy, if we are prone to it. Regardless of the season, hygge is simply the key to happiness, and it’s worth cultivating in ourselves every day. In this article, we will introduce you to the Danish way of enjoying life. And let’s encourage you to get acquainted with this idea by the fact that the Danes have been among the happiest nations in the world for years.
Hygge what is it?
Hygge simply means comfort and convenience in the sense of feeling happy and harmonious. The Danes have cherished this for years, but outside this country the slogan has come out relatively recently, but spectacularly. Hygge was recognized as one of the words of 2016, and its fame is not waning. Contrary to appearances, this key to happiness does not require reaching for elaborate entertainment and crazy solutions to feel good. On the contrary, this philosophy of life is best expressed by candles, warm tea, and a cozy space. In short, what we associate with peaceful relaxation.
Hygge philosophy of life
Danish mentality is all about: trust, equality and hygge. Danes believe that every citizen regardless of gender, color, religion, orientation should have the same rights. Everyone’s right is also free time, which is what lies beneath the mentioned comfort, convenience and harmony. Free time is very important for Danes, it allows them to enjoy every moment, which is the premise of their philosophy of life. Enjoying small things, appreciating small gestures, full attentiveness is the way to harmony. Hygge is definitely not a rush for money, expensive gifts, but warm cocoa, a candle flame, soft music in the background, board games, a glass of wine in the privacy of the home, holding a loved one’s hand. While the question “so much hype about something like this?” may come to mind, in fact, the Danish lifestyle, reminds us what is really important. So let’s explore a little more ways to hygge.
Rest
Stress, busyness, multiple tasks and runaway thoughts outside of the time and space we are in. Sound familiar? The Danish way of life emphasizes the importance of harmony, and that harmony is to find a balance between work and rest. In hygge, we give ourselves time for ourselves. We don’t treat an evening at home as wasted time, but as a chance to fully relax with a book, music, or just in pleasant company. This allows us to quiet our minds and find mental comfort.
Human relationships
One of the key pillars of hygge is human connection. Being with another person, being close to others uninterrupted by constantly reaching for the phone, is as much in the style of the Danish mentality as possible. Time spent attentively with loved ones helps create mutual trust, a sense of security and comfort. It’s a strong foundation in the pursuit of inner harmony, but it doesn’t mean there’s no need to spend time alone. It’s also important to build a bond with yourself.
Hygge in the kitchen
Food in hygge is simply meant to give pleasure. It’s not a diet or a particular way of eating, but the way we eat. Tasting food and enjoying its qualities is another brick in Danish happiness. Due to the cold temperatures, Danes find pleasure in drinking coffee and eating sweets, as well as reaching for mulled wine or wine. Of course, this is not about promoting alcoholism or an unhealthy diet – moderation in every aspect remains the domain of hygge.
Hygge at home
The interiors of Danish homes reflect the owners themselves. Danes are very fond of surrounding themselves with objects that have sentimental value for them, and also relate to their interests and pleasant emotions. Since hygge is associated with coziness, the houses themselves are also cozy. Attention is paid to accessories and decorations, an abundance of candles, scents, spaciousness and comfort. Danes are fond of natural materials like wood and stone. Contrary to appearances, it is not about elaborate furniture, but one that is simply comfortable. Home is an important center of functioning for Danes because of the cold temperatures. They spend a lot of time at home, although on warmer days they like gardens and places connected with nature.
Hygge, or mediocrity above mediocrity
Much of the behavior associated with Hygge is conditioned by the geographic location of Denmark itself. Long winters, the need to spend time indoors, warm blankets, teas and candles have created a culture of Danes that has begun to inspire people in other countries. There are no elaborate ways of living, there is enjoying the little things and sharing joy with others. And this is what sets hygge apart from the mediocrity of the frenetic, fast-paced world.
The recipe for peace is tranquility. Hygge is nothing innovative, but a reminder to appreciate life’s little pleasures, which can become a way to great happiness. We also wrote about the value of mindfulness and enjoying everyday life with simple techniques at Art of Mindfulness, check it out: Minduflness – mindfulness training.