Why We Should All Take a Little Inspiration From the Hygge Lifestyle

By Emily Scott

Hygge is a Danish word, which embodies the appreciation of life, through being fully engaged in the present moment. Creating a warm, comforting atmosphere and enjoying the sensory experiences around you encompasses the hygge lifestyle. Never has it been more important to take care of our own health and wellbeing, as we try to navigate unprecedented times. The concept of hygge was something relatively new to me, however, I soon became aware that I was already incorporating many of the concepts of hygge into my life already and I loved the idea that creating a cosy and comforting environment actually has a name. One of the greatest aspects of hygge is that it can be applied anywhere at any time, by anyone. You’re probably already practising aspects of hygge, whether it’s snuggling up with a good book, having a picnic with a friend, or cooking your favourite meal. Hygge can also mean something different to everyone - it’s about finding your little comforts and pleasures and applying these to your life each day.

Creating Your Own Hygge Environment:

Candles One of the most recognisable symbols of hygge are candles. Sitting in the gentle, cosy light of a candle can certainly make the long winter nights more pleasurable. Candles also provide a source of natural light, having a more positive impact on mood and wellbeing as opposed to harsh, artificial lighting from lamps or screens. You can even try grouping candles to create pools of natural light, enough to carry-out your usual evening activities.

Food and Drink Hygge is all about being kind to yourself, giving yourself a treat and unwinding from the pressures and stresses of everyday life. Taking the time to stop and enjoy a hot drink can bring that needed little break in the day. A warm drink forces us to stop and rest in the moment, giving us a chance to remain grounded and recharge. Why not take five minutes out of your day to sit and appreciate a mug of hot chocolate or tea, savouring the flavour and allowing yourself time just to sit and enjoy the present moment? In addition to taking time out to enjoy food and drink, the feeling of hygge can also be created through the slow preparation of a meal. Preparing hygge food is all about enjoying the different processes and steps, rather than focusing on the end product. Appreciate the time you have taken to prepare this food and take joy in the fact that you have prepared something for yourself, or others. When enjoying the meal, remember to recount the feelings you had whilst preparing it, through the smells and flavours of the dish.

Creating hygge outside of the home Whilst a hygge atmosphere is often created within the home, it can also be enjoyed outside, in nature. Being surrounded by nature, whether it be in your garden or the local park, adds a certain simplicity to life. We are no longer engaged in an array of different tasks, or caught up in social media. The sounds of the wind rustling leaves on a tree, or the running water in a stream, helps bring us back to the present moment by creating a sense of calm, a key aspect of hygge.

Remember that hygge is all about enjoying the simple pleasures in everyday life, through allowing ourselves to step out of our hectic lives and be in the present moment, even if it’s just for 5 minutes.

Recommended reading: The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well, by Meik Wiking