Welcome to the ultimate guide to Hygge – Everything you need to know to start cozy, start mindful living, to live simply and joyfully.
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First things first, how do you pronounce hygge?
It’s not as hard as it seems for us English speakers! Simply say “hoo-ga” or “hyoo-ga.”
So What is Hygge Anyway?
This Danish concept is more than just a Danish word; it’s a philosophy and lifestyle that celebrates comfort, connection, and simplicity. If you’re seeking an escape from the relentless toxic productivity culture we live in, the hygge lifestyle might just be your remedy to living a more peaceful, fulfilling life and the road to better mental health. Let’s explore the hygge basics and 10 easy hygge examples to incorporate this cozy approach into your daily routine.
This guide is tailored for those new to hygge, offering insights into how to infuse your life with this cozy, mindful, and heartwarming Danish concept of hygge.
Hygge Lifestyle
The word hygge is a term that doesn’t have a direct English translation, yet we all can understand the feeling. It embodies that safe, cozy contentment and well-being of enjoying the simple things in life. It’s about creating a warm atmosphere and savoring the good things with good people. Imagine curling up with a good book, a warm drink, and spending time, particularly during the winter months, just basking in that feeling of coziness with close friends and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. It’s that simple feeling of contentment in everyday life. At its heart, hygge is not only about cozy aesthetic or cozy home decor, but also about the experience of safety, comfort, and kinship.
Hygge Basics: The Fundamentals of a Cozy Life
Before diving into the hygge lifestyle, let’s cover the 10 Rules of Hygge as outlined by Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, and author of “The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well“
1. Atmosphere
The right atmosphere is the cornerstone of hygge. It’s about creating a space that radiates warmth and comfort. Think dimmed lights, candles casting soft shadows, or a fireplace gently crackling. This atmosphere extends beyond the physical; it’s about feeling at ease, where the outside bustling world melts away, leaving a sense of peace and warmth.
2. Presence
Hygge is about being present in the moment and fully engaging with your experiences. It means putting away distractions like phones and laptops and fully immersing your attention and energy in the here and now. Whether it’s savoring a meal, listening to rain on the roof, or having a heart-to-heart with a friend, presence is about appreciating life as it happens. This can be way easier said than done in our modern world, but the benefits are priceless.
3. Pleasure
In the world of hygge, small pleasures hold immense value. This could be focusing in on and appreciating the joy of a freshly brewed cup of coffee, the indulgence of a sweet treat, or the comfort of your favorite sweater. A hygge lifestyle tip is to find delight in these simple, everyday pleasures, turning ordinary moments into something special.
4. Equality
Hygge promotes equality and community. It’s about ‘we’ over ‘me.’ This principle encourages sharing the workload as well as the joys equally. Whether it’s during a meal, conversation, or a collaborative project, everyone’s contributions and presence are valued equally.
5. Gratitude
Gratitude in hygge is about appreciating what you have and finding contentment in the simple things. It’s recognizing the beauty in a humble meal, a warm home, or good company. This principle teaches us to cherish the little things and find joy in the ordinary. Practicing gratitude regularly has also been shown to be beneficial for mental health.
6. Harmony
Hygge lifestyle encourages a sense of harmony and peace. It’s not about competition or comparison but about enjoying each other’s company in a relaxed and non-judgmental atmosphere. Harmony in hygge is about coexisting peacefully and enjoying life’s journey together.
7. Comfort
Comfort is key in hygge. It’s about creating an environment where you can relax and feel at ease. This includes physical comfort like cozy blankets and soft lighting, as well as emotional comfort, which comes from feeling safe and accepted in your surroundings.
8. Truce
Hygge calls for a truce on drama and conflict. It’s about creating a peaceful environment where you can let go of stress and tension. In a hygge setting, you focus on the positive, leaving arguments and negativity at the door.
9. Togetherness
Togetherness is a heart of hygge lifestyle. It’s about fostering connections and spending quality time with family and friends. This could be through shared meals, games, or simply conversing. Togetherness in hygge is about creating bonds and making memories.
10. Shelter
Your home is your shelter, a sanctuary from the outside world. In hygge, your home is a place of comfort and security, a space where you can be yourself and recharge. It’s about making your home a refuge of warmth and serenity, where you can always feel at peace.
By integrating these principles into your daily life, you can start to experience the true essence of hygge, leading to a more mindful, joyous, and fulfilling way of living.
Hygge Your Home: Creating Your Cozy Sanctuary
Transforming your home into a hygge haven doesn’t require a complete makeover. It’s about enhancing your living space to make it warm and inviting. Think plush throw blankets, comfy cushions, and soft rugs. A hygge home is a place where you can kick back, relax, and feel utterly at peace.
Learn More: 10 Cozy Home Decor Ideas that will Make You Fall in Love with Your Space
10 Ways You Can Embrace the Hygge Lifestyle (Today!)
1. Light Candles
Create a cozy ambiance with the soft, warm glow of candles. The flickering light brings a sense of calm and tranquility, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether during a quiet dinner, a relaxing bath, or while reading a book, candles are a simple yet effective way to make your space hygge.
Whether real, scented, or flameless candles, lighting one up can instantly warm up your atmosphere.
2. Create a Hygge Corner
Designate a special spot in your home as your hygge corner, otherwise known as a hyggekrog. This can be a cozy chair by the window, a small nook with cushions and blankets, or a comfortable spot by the fireplace. Use this space to relax, meditate, read, or simply enjoy a moment of quiet.
3. Enjoy Comfort Food
Cook and savor comfort food that warms your soul. Think hearty stews, homemade bread, or a delicious baked treat. The process of cooking and the joy of eating something lovingly prepared adds to the hygge experience, especially when shared with loved ones.
4. Practice Mindfulness
Engage in activities that encourage mindfulness. It could be sipping tea while watching the sunrise, practicing yoga, or simply being present in the moment (non-judgmentally!). Mindfulness is a key aspect of hygge, helping to create a peaceful and contented state of mind.
5. Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones
Hygge is about cherishing the people around you. Organize a game night, share a meal, or have a heart-to-heart conversation. Quality time spent in the company of friends and family is a great way to embrace the hygge way of life.
6. Go for a Nature Walk
Connect with nature to embrace hygge. A leisurely walk in a park, forest, or by the beach allows you to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and surround yourself with natural elements. This not only provides physical benefits but also helps in grounding and rejuvenating your spirit.
7. Dress Comfortably
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and relaxed. Outfits with soft fabrics, warm layers, and cozy slippers are perfect for creating a sense of ease and well-being. Comfortable clothing like wearing a nice, warm sweater is just one of the many simple ways to embrace hygge in your daily life.
8. Take a Digital Detox
Take a break from digital devices. Unplugging from technology, even for a short period, can significantly enhance your sense of hygge. Use this time to engage in offline activities that you enjoy, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and your surroundings.
9. Listen to Soothing Music or Sounds
Play music or sounds that soothe your soul. Whether it’s gentle acoustic music, the sound of rain, or a calming podcast, listening to relaxing audio can significantly enhance your environment and mood, creating a perfect hygge atmosphere. You can easily find sounds or music that resonate with your feeling of relaxation on YouTube or Spotify.
10. Indulge in a Hot Beverage
There’s nothing more hygge than wrapping your hands around a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate in your favorite mug. The ritual of preparing and savoring hot drinks is a simple pleasure that can bring immense comfort and warmth, both physically and emotionally.
Your Journey to Hygge
Embarking on the journey to hygge lifestyle is a beautiful way to rediscover the joys of a simpler, more connected life. By incorporating the principles of hygge into your daily routine, you open the door to a world of comfort, joy, and peace. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the now, and finding beauty in the ordinary. Welcome to the world of hygge, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace warmth, connection, and happiness.
Incorporate these elements into your life, and you’ll soon experience the profound impact of living a life filled with hygge. Today is the perfect time to start! So light a candle, pour yourself a cup of hot cocoa, switch on your fairy lights, wrap yourself in a cozy, soft blanket, and let the journey to a more mindful, hygge-filled life begin!
