Hygge, the Danish secret to happiness

Imagine yourself at home: the fireplace is lit, the Candles They create an atmosphere, and in your hands you have a cup of hot tea that you sip in the company of your loved ones. What feeling do you get? The answer lies in the Danish concept known as The setting is appealing, comfortable and welcoming and has earned its own name among the Danes: hygge..

Meaning

The term hygge cannot be translated into Italian, but it can be described as a mixture of warmth and welcome, an intimate atmosphere enjoyed in the company of loved ones. Many things are hygge: candles lit on winter evenings, dinner at home with friends, sipping a warm drink in front of a roaring fireplace. In short, small everyday pleasures that are good for the heart and don't require much effort or financial investment. For the Danes, this is the true secret to happiness!

Origini

The term hygge comes from Old Norse (hugge) and originally meant something similar to the concept of well-being. The word first appeared in a Danish text at the end of the 18th century. However, according to another hypothesis, it could also derive from the Germanic "hyggja," meaning "to feel satisfied." A similar concept, expressed with different terms, is also found in Germany, Sweden, and Norway.

Hygge in winter

When we talk about hygge, we usually think of winter and all those activities and experiences that can be enjoyed within the comforting walls of our homes, like the examples cited above. Indeed, these are all very hygge-like things, but the concept extends to all seasons.

Hygge in summer

Even in summer, it's possible to experience this and feel a profound sense of warmth. How? Especially by carving out time in nature: a picnic outdoors, a walk with loved ones, a weekend getaway with friends. And the list goes on...

How to create a hygge atmosphere

What are the essential elements to create an authentic hygge atmosphere in your home?

• First of all, you need to take care of the lighting: no to cold light, yes to warm light. Even better if you turn on some candle. Among other things, it is said that observing its flame induces a state (almost) meditative, promoting relaxation.
• Spending time with friends and family in a welcoming atmosphere, making everyone feel completely at ease, avoiding excessive formalities.
• Avoid any form of competition.
• Enjoy traditional dishes together, drink something hot (if it's winter and cold), and share convivial moments.
• Sharing memories, stories, tales.
• Prefer natural materials, wooden furniture and paper decorations, even better if handmade.

Why Christmas is the most hygge time of the year

According to the Danes, Christmas is the most hygge time of the year: what better occasion to spend time with friends and family, share stories in front of a roaring fireplace, prepare DIY decorations and enjoy delicious treats together.

Read also:

• The happiness that is discovered in small gestures
• What does it really take to be happy?
• Eliminating the superfluous brings happiness