Why We Need More “Hygge” in our Lives!
The Danish word “hygge” (pronounced “hyoo-gah”) is a word I first heard from Interior Designer Lisa Holt’s YouTube videos about the Scandi and Japandi style esthetics. I was researching interior design for remodeling one of our bathrooms and when I watched her videos, I could see how the Scandinavian style was a mixture of minimal contemporary that blends in natural textures to add coziness. Examples were solid wood crafted furniture, wool and other woven materials, fur, candle and electrical ways to create warm lighting, and natural colors. She mentioned the Danish word “hygge’ was gaining popularity because in interior design as it adds a “coziness” to a rather sterile, minimal environment.
The simple joys of a comfy bed.
In doing research about all things “sparking joy” the Danish word “hygge” kept popping up. So I found out that there are several books written about “hygge”, the most popular one is The Little Book of Hygge written by Meik Wiking, from the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark. In his book, Wiking discusses what the word means to Danes, how “hygge” increases one’s happiness, and how anyone in the world can incorporate more “hygge” into their life. In short, the Danish word translates of a cozy, safe, and happy “chicken soup for the soul” type of feeling. “Hygge is about an atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. It is about being with the people that you love. A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe, that we are shielded from the world and allow ourselves to let our guard down. You may be having an endless conversation about the small or big things in life- or just be comfortable in each other’s silent company- or simply just be by yourself enjoying a cup of tea.”- Wiking, The Little Book of Hygge, pg. 6.
I care about this topic because the heart of tidying has to do with living a happy life, bringing what you love about life into your environment. And just as organizing has brought people joy, the concept of “hygge” has helped millions of people worldwide cope with difficult times such as the pandemic, living more frugally amidst a overly consumerism society, dealing with depression, boredom, long winters, etc. It also blends perfectly with organization, so much so that I have made it a part of my branding.
We benefit from appreciating time outdoors, for instance watching the sun set.
So how can we become more “hyggeligt” (hygge-like)? Rather than getting caught up in trends, comparing ourselves to others in an unhealthy way, and buying lots of low quality stuff, we shift our minds into the simple aspects of life that naturally create an healthy environment and experience for ourselves and others. Examples include:
Soft candle lighting vs stark cold lit rooms.
Walks in nature irregardless of good or bad weather (not during dangerous weather; light precipitation, wind, hot muggy and cold weather is fine as long as you are dressed for it)
Taking time to socialize in small groups so that even shy people can feel comfortable
Sharing familiar and comforting foods with others
Buying well crafted items like, clothing or furniture, that will stand the test of time and are beautifully classic in design, and thoughtfully chosen.
I highly recommend reading The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking and try to gradually bring more “hygge” into your life.
