Why are the Danes so happy? There are a many reasons… including ‘Hygge’. Never heard of it?
Think of the joy of the winter holiday season, the glow of a campfire, the coziness of watching through the window as snow falls while you are snug in a blanket, the warmth down to your soul of a cup of tea , and the pleasure of embracing a dearly missed loved one. Wrap them into one. That’s Hygge.
Describing such a complex feeling, and doing ‘Hygge’ justice is not easy, but there are some key factors we will touch on that contribute to creating this cozy feeling that may in fact lead to Danes’ Happiness.
The word hygge stems from a Norwegian word meaning “well-being”. There is no ONE English word that captures the meaning of the word Hygge. The closest are “coziness”, homeyness”, and comfort. Hygge is most prominent during the cold winter months, but it doesn’t stop there. Many of the components mentioned here can be applied year round and in Denmark they are…which explains why they are so happy.
1.) Create ambiance through dim lighting.
Candles. Lamps. Fireplace. Dimmer Switches.
Have you ever noticed that some restaurants use dim cozy lighting while others use bright fluorescent bulbs? Think of the difference in the vibe that is created. The first is calming and soothing and sets the tone for relaxing, while the second is stimulating and even anxiety provoking for some. Many spas lower the lights in their waiting rooms for that reason. Have you ever been to a party that had bright lighting and the ambiance just didn’t seem right? The same goes for your home.
2.) Generate a feeling of comfort and togetherness.
Relax. In some fast paced societies this is easier said than done, but if we want to be happy like the Danes then we need to create opportunities and daily routines and rituals that force us to slow down.
Be Present. Along with relaxing comes truly being “in the moment”. This means you stop trying to multitask. If you are checking email, then check email. If you are having a conversation with your spouse, do so, but don’t try to do them both at the same time.
Share Sweets with Friends and Family Members. Danes eat double the sweets as other European countries. The key is that they eat them in a relaxing setting and eat mindfully. They use sweets as a way to enjoy their time with loved ones. Who doesn’t love sharing a treat?
Drink Hot Beverages. Tea, Coffee, Steamed Milk with Cinnamon and Honey, Hot Apple Cider… Just reading the list warms the soul. Hot Drinks make us warm and cozy down to the core.
3.) Choose attire that evokes a cozy feel.
Layers, Scarves, Bulky (but not Sloppy) Tops and Cozy Sweaters, Thick Wool Socks, and Casual Hair. Picturing this attire may make you feel relaxed just imagining it. Even if you cannot dress this way during the work day, come home and get comfortable!
4.) Create a nook or cozy spot aka “A Hyggekrog”
Make a Spot that one can curl up and relax to read a good book, drink tea, or just “be”. This spot can be created with furniture next to a window or even just down on the floor with pillows, cushions and blankets. The point is, it is easier to feel cozy in this kind of nook than sitting on a hard wooden chair.
5.) Know that decor plays a role in setting the mood.
Vintage Feel. There is something about vintage or repurposed/refurbished furniture that elicits a Hygge-like feel especially if there is a story behind it that evokes nostalgia.
Nature. Bringing nature in the house through use of twigs, branches, leaves, pine cones, etc. creates a rustic “salt of the earth” vibe.
Books of interest. Old favorites, new novels, picture books, and old letters are an important component of Hygge to be read in the Nook (Hyggekrog).
Variety of Materials (Ceramics, Wood, Linens, Metal and Objects that create Tactile Experiences through interesting textures.
Maybe you aren’t Danish, but you could surely add a little more Hygge to your life. These components are sure to spark joy for you, your loved ones, and everyone who enters your abode. Part of EnlightenMENTE’s six phase Commit to Thrive program involves integrating habits and maximizing your physical surroundings to evoke happiness.
References:
http://hyggehouse.com/hygge Retrieved Feb. 13, 2018
Wiking, Meik, The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living.
