News — hygge

If you're active on social media or always on the lookout for the latest lifestyle trend, chances are you've stumbled on the word hygge at least once in the past few years. But what exactly is hygge, and why is it so popular around the world right now? To understand that, we first need to dive into the origins of hygge and what this lifestyle trend is all about.

 

What is Hygge?

Simply put, hygge (pronounced hyoo-guh) is a Danish and Norwegian word for a cozy and comfortable way of life that promotes contentment and wellbeing. The word has no direct translation in English (although Google Translate will tell you it means "fun"). Instead, it encompasses any idea related to coziness and has been an integral part of Danish life and culture since the 19th century. It's no wonder Denmark always tops the list of the happiest countries in the world.

Over the past few years, hygge has taken the world by storm. The concept first started trending in the UK after several books were published on the subject in 2016. The word hygge was even named the runner-up Word of the Year in the UK that year, second only to Brexit.

The US then picked up this lifestyle trend in 2017. The hashtag #hygge flooded social media and hygge-related activity on Pinterest rose by almost 300 percent by the beginning of the year. After a stressful couple of years, it's easy to see why this Scandinavian way of life became so popular.

So now that you know what hygge is, how do you implement it in your own life?

 

How to Practice Hygge (The Right Way)

Huge marketing campaigns in the UK and US may lead you to believe that practicing hygge requires spending hundreds of dollars on candles, blankets, and furniture for a cozy winter indoors. In fact, hygge is whatever creates a cozy atmosphere that brings you joy and comfort. You've probably already experienced hygge without even knowing it.

Hygge is all about enjoying the simple things in life. This can be anything from a hot cup of cocoa by the fireplace to a fun night out with friends. Do you enjoy reading a good book in bed on a rainy day? Sitting around in your sweatpants and binging Netflix shows all day? Spending quality time with your family? If so, you're already a hygge master.

In short, hygge may seem like just another lifestyle trend, but it's really a way to practice self-care in whatever way works for you. So go ahead and light a nice vanilla candle, curl up under a comfy blanket, and enjoy that extra slice of cake. Embrace the hygge lifestyle of the Danes and create your own style of happiness.