Hygge? Denmark's Long-Kept Happiness Secret...
Hygge (pronounced hue-gah) is a Danish word that cannot be translated directly into English in one word, but cosy comes close. The term is derived from a Norwegian word that means "wellbeing." It's difficult to define hygge, but bear with us as we do. By the end, you will hopefully not only understand, but also feel Hygge.
Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark, wrote 'The Little Book of Hygge,' which does an excellent job of making the reader feel hygge.
Hygge is a state of mind that you cultivate. It’s a sense of homeliness, a sense of togetherness, or the act of forgetting about your problems by engaging in pleasant and relaxing activities. And now is the ideal time to practise some Hygge.
So, what is the connection between Denmark and Hygge?
Denmark is ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world due to its use of hygge. With up to 18 hours of darkness per day in the winter and average temperatures hovering around 0C, Danes spend more time indoors, and as a result, there is a greater emphasis on finding ways to stay entertained. Aside from entertainment, Danish values and culture are deeply ingrained in the concept of hygge, and place a high value on spending time with family and practicing contentment.
Hygge is all about savouring life's small pleasures.
3 Tips To Practise Hygge
Mind and body
Awaken your consciousness, enjoy the present moment and appreciate the small things.
The little details
Gather seasonal flowers or candles to complement your décor.
Time well spent.
More time to fill with jobs and errands isn't what we need in this hectic age. Instead, we need to make better use of the time we have. Get rid of stress in your home.
How To Have A Hygge Day Out In London
Early morning: Head to Danish cafe Hjem Kensington.
The only way to begin your hygge day is with a long, relaxing breakfast, preferably something hot and filling, shared with friends and a good newspaper.
Brunch-time: Head to Ole + Steen for a quick coffee
According to a study conducted at the University of Colorado Boulder, "participants who briefly held a cup of hot (versus iced) coffee judged a target person as having a 'warmer' personality (generous, caring)."
Midday: A brisk walk through a park
A stroll through peaceful surroundings is very hygge. Have a quick stroll through Regent’s Park. The Danes are also big fans of cold-water swimming all year, which has been shown in studies to help with depression,( but don't try it in Regent’s.)
Early afternoon: Smorres at Scandinavian Kitchen
To lunch like a Dane, order a smorrebread, which is an open sandwich made of rye bread. Head to Scandinavian Kitchen in Fitzrovia which offer an endless varieties of smorrebreads everyday!
Late afternoon: Head to Paere Dansk for home shopping
Every Danish home has a "hyggekrog," which translates as "a nook" – a spot in the room where you can curl up with a cup of tea. To make your living room more Borgen-esque, visit Paere Dansk in Kensington for sleek minimalist furniture.
Evening: Simplistic dinner
Hygge isn't about getting all dolled up for a Michelin-starred meal. Instead, aim for a slow-cooked supper served family-style to a few friends, along with a great bottle of wine.