“Hygge” is a Danish thing! I usually explain it as being a combination of comfort, coziness, bliss and being thankful for spending time with loved ones, which gives you a unique feeling of wellbeing.
The google dictionary says “Hygge” is a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.
In the winter months we do hygge with indoor activities, warm drinks, candle lights and have the fire place going if you have one. In the summer months it’s outdoors activities, grilling and bonfire.
“Hygge” is when we are with friends or family, and share some great food and conversation, when you bundle up on the couch with a good book, watching a movie, having the fireplace going, or just do something you really enjoy with someone you like spending time with!
Here is a few benefits of “hygge”
“Hygge” Calms your mind
We are always in a hurry and keep on going, even after our body tells us to slow down. It’s kinda like the Energizer Bunny!! We do not stop until we either crash or run out of energy. That’s actually extremely bad for our health! Sometimes we just need to pause, get unplugged and do nothing, so our brain and body gets a break. “Hygge” very much help us do just that
Off line “hygge”
The least “hygge”ish thing in the world, is to be with other people
and mindlessly scrolling on your smartphone.
I’m not saying we can’t do some mindless scrolling on our
smartphone now and then.
The thing is, it’s become a habit we do without thinking about it!
“Hygge” is where we are present in our own and others company,
and pay attention to the conversations around us.
Doing most of my business online, I sometimes leave my iPhone
in the kitchen, and do some off line activity.
It’s not that we can’t be entertained scrolling on the phone, it’s more that “hygge” is about being intentional and present.
“Hygge” Is relaxing
One of my favorite “hygge” things to do, is a relaxing time in my Infra Red sauna, and hot bath with two cups of Epsom salt and a few drops of lavender essential oil. It gives me that super relaxed and recharged feeling.
I also love a stay at home night. Light some candles, get the fireplace going, make a nice meal, and cozy up under a big warm blanket.
“Hygge”enables mindful eating
To me, cooking our own food is also “hygge”. Nothing like colorful fresh vegetables cooked to your liking, and enjoyed with fresh grilled salmon, a good quality poultry or meat. My personal summer favorites, are a big bowl of super colorful salad, with either fish or chicken.
Lay the table nicely, maybe with candle lights and flowers, enjoying the home made meal, having great conversation with my loved ones and amazing friends is very much “hygge” and very relaxing.
“Hygge” is also sometimes about reaching for that piece of homemade cake, or supre delicious ice cream, and enjoying every last bite!
Why not follow the Danish example and bring more “hygge” into your daily life?
