Have you heard of Hygge? It’s a Danish word that doesn’t have a direct translation — although coziness and hominess are close — and it’s certainly becoming a big thing in the states.
Huffington Post says, “Hygge is about feeling calm, feeling connected to your own sense of wellbeing, and above all feeling cozy.” There are even two new books devoted to the Hygge lifestyle: The Book of Hygge by Louisa Thomson Brits and The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking.
What is Hygge?
It’s pronounced “hoo-ga” or “hue-ga,” and it’s the style and lifestyle that helps the Danes get through their long, cold winters (yeah, we can relate).
According to the Observer, Hygge is best described as “a living room where the fireplace is roaring, candles line the room, no one is looking at their phone and you’re all under blankets eating home-baked cookies and drinking mulled cider.”
The way you decorate your home can help you achieve a Hygge feeling. Start with the simple act of decluttering and also think about decorating with intention. With Minnesota’s Danish-style winter upon us, this seems like a good time to share some ways to make your home more Hygge.
Candles
Blankets and Pillows
It’s hard to be comfy (or Hygge) without these staples. Drape throws on your couch and chairs or place in baskets ready for guests to grab to make your home super inviting.
Comfort Food and Drink
More Things that are Hygge
If you’re still having a hard time grasping this abstract, yet comfortable concept, the Observer has a list of more things that are absolutely Hygge.
- Fireplaces
- Comfy chairs
- Things made of wood, or ceramic
- Lots of books
- Big sweaters
- Picnics
- Trust
- Christmas
- Wool socks
- Gardens
- Dogs
- Popcorn
- Autumn
- Scarves
- Pajamas
- Hot chocolate with marshmallows
So, throw another log on the fire, curl up on the couch with a nice warm cocoa, and spend some quality time with your friends. You’re not being lazy, you’re being Hygge.
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