Perhaps you’ve heard of it – Hygge that is. The Danish appreciation of things that provide a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being. Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) means enjoying the simple things in life.
It is such an important part of being Danish that it is considered "a defining feature of our cultural identity and an integral part of the national DNA," according to Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen.
Popular elements of a hygge-like environment include comfy clothes (like that favorite pair of sweatpants you live in on the weekend), candles, comfort foods, homemade sweets, fireplaces, hot drinks, thick socks and soft woolen afghans, and spending quality time with your favorite friends and family – including cuddly dogs or cats!
Perfectlyhygge.com adds, “The hygge lifestyle causes us to feel and accept positive emotions. It calls for us to seek inner peace and even childlike happiness without feeling silly or judged by others. We can seek happiness, calm, nostalgia, nurturing, contentment, and protection in a hygge environment.”
OK, so just what is a “hyggekrog”? It’s a cozy nook in your home – your favorite place to “nest” in your flannel jammies with a cup of tea, dreaming by the glowing fireplace or watching the world go by from a comfy window seat.
If you don’t have a hyggekrog yet, it’s time to start rearranging the furniture!
Photo: Envato