By Lisa V. Gotte
Hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah,” is a Danish word that can most readily be described as a sort of coziness, although it’s more than that. It also comes from the word hugga, which is related to the word hug and means to comfort and console. So, it’s little surprise that it’s what keeps the Danes the happiest people on the planet even though they endure frigid winters with little daylight. Sunrise in a Copenhagen winter can be as late as 9:00 am while sunset can arrive not long after by 3:30 p.m. The average temperature in January is 32°F, hovering right around freezing for months. All that adds up to some long, dark, and cold days. Most Michiganders can relate to this kind of winter climate, but just because it’s cold and dark outside doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. Take a page from the Scandinavians and invite the warmth and conviviality of hygge into your home and life.
Create Your Own Coziness Indoors
Candles, nubby socks, a warm fireplace, sparkly lights, foamy lattes, and hot chocolate with friends and family, these are the things that hygge is made of. This comforting and relaxed way of life can be created in any home in any country with just a few items that most of us already have.
What you may need:
Candles and Fairy or Christmas Lights
Fuzzy Blankets and Warm Socks
Sturdy Mugs and Cups for Hot Drinks
Good Books and a Comfortable Spot in Which to Read Them
Light
Long, dark, and dreary days can be brightened with the right lighting. Strings of sparkly lights on mantles or over doorways don’t have to be put away right after Christmas. Leave them up to brighten some of the coldest months of the year. Low watt, warm white bulbs in lamps can also add a cozy and subdued atmosphere. Candles, of course, add their warm flicker.
Friends
The word conviviality is often included in any description of hygge. It’s most certainly possible to enjoy the warmth of hygge alone with some nubby socks and a cup of hot cocoa but friends make it even better. Sharing good food and conversation in a relaxed atmosphere is a perfect expression of hygge.
Scandinavians, in general, have a standard of living which allows most citizens a level of prosperity and the leisure time to enjoy it. While hygge can come across as bourgeois it’s not as consumer driven as it can appear to be on the surface. Generous doses of both gratitude and moderation are vital to the spirit of real hygge. It’s not about buying a dozen candles or having mountains of warm socks you may never wear. It’s enjoying a few well-made things that are mindfully enjoyed, provide genuine comfort, and may last for years.
The Swedish word, lagom, describes a sense of equality and moderation and is an important part of hygge. Lagom is sharing with those around you and getting along. This quality of lagom, which is sometimes criticized as being too bland and not making waves, can also help people get along and keep tensions and conflicts at bay.
Things to do:
Visit Restaurants and Coffee Shops with Friends
Arrange Group Hikes and Outdoor Activities
Find Local Places that have Game Nights
Get Outside
Hygge doesn’t only happen inside. Getting outside for hikes, ice skating, and skiing are also part of the philosophy of hygge. Star gazing on crisp and clear evenings is also a great way to get outside. Outdoor activities tend to promote a healthy body and happy mindset and any weather can be enjoyed when wearing suitable clothing. The contrast when coming in from the cold to a warm and inviting meal with friends can make each extreme even more enjoyable. It’s not just the warmth and comfort that is hygge, but the juxtaposition between that and the harsh and dreary climate.
You’ll need:
Warm Clothes for the Outdoors
Boots, Scarves, and Gloves
A Place to Walk, Hike, Ski, or Star Gaze
When you come in from that winter hike, take off your hats and gloves and settle in to make a batch of hot cocoa to share with companions.
A Recipe for Easy Hot Cocoa for Three
This recipe takes only minutes to make and is as easy as purchased hot cocoa mix. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and delicious. Just whisk together all the ingredients in a heavy bottomed pan and heat to just below boiling. The cocoa powder will mix in easily as the milk heats up. Once heated through, stir well, share with a couple of friends, and enjoy!
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