10 Easy Ways to Achieve Hygge

Hygge (pronounced "hoo-ga") is a Danish and Norwegian concept that encompasses a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being through simple, everyday experiences. It's not just a word; it's a cultural philosophy that has gained popularity worldwide. While it doesn't have a direct translation into English, it's often described as a feeling of warmth and comfort that comes from enjoying life's little pleasures and creating a sense of intimacy and togetherness.

At its core, hygge is about creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that promotes relaxation, connection, and a sense of security. It's often associated with the colder months when people seek to counteract the darkness and chill with cozy indoor activities. Hygge emphasizes slowing down, being present in the moment, and valuing the simple joys of life, like sharing a warm cup of tea, enjoying the company of loved ones by a fireplace, or snuggling up with a good book on a rainy day.

Hygge is closely tied to the idea of mindful living, where people focus on the positive aspects of life, cherish relationships, and create environments that promote a sense of ease and contentment. It's about finding pleasure in life's ordinary moments and appreciating the beauty in simplicity.

Here are 10 ways to bring hygge into your home:

Whether it's through soft lighting, comfortable textiles, meaningful decorations, or meaningful conversations, the goal of hygge is to cultivate an atmosphere of coziness and well-being that enriches one's quality of life.

I hope you are able to work some of the elements of hygge into your daily life! The best way to bring the physical elements of hygge into your home are candles, mood lighting, cozy blankets, natural elements like wood, and lots and lots of sweets. And wine.

Happy hygge-ing!

From the original article published in 2017

Pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, this Danish secret to living a happy life has rapidly become an interior design niche. Not something you can buy, hygge is a state of mind achieved when your environment is composed of elements of safety, warmth, & coziness. Hygge goes far beyond the aesthetics of your living room. It's a way of life. In his bestselling guide The Little Book of Hygge, author Meik Wiking provides a simple outline of the 10 principles of achieving hygge.