Frequently rated as being the happiest Country on earth, despite the bleak desolate winters, Denmark seem to have the perfect recipe for beating the winter blues. The Scandinavian term for well-being, described as ‘coziness’ or ‘togetherness’ in English, the term has no literal translation, making it almost impossible to pinpoint exactly what ‘hygge’ means. For the most part, it is all about creating a cozy, convivial atmosphere, and making regular everyday things more meaningful, beautiful and special.
Step #1 : Light it up…
Rumor has it that Denmark is the largest consumers of candles per capita on the planet! Embrace the power of a warming candlelight glow as it transforms your everyday surroundings as a flickering escape from winter’s cold. Danish brand Skandinavisk have even developed a Hygge fragrance with notes of brewed tea, baked strawberry cake, rose petals and wild mint for the ultimate Hygge experience.
Step #2: Make you home warm and cozy
When we think of a warm cozy space, our minds instantly go to soft luxurious textures. Chunky knit throws, fluffy wool rugs and furry pillows combined with a roaring fire. The perfect atmosphere to get your Hygge on.
Step #3: Repeat after us “less is MUCH more”
Surround yourself with simple well-chosen objects. The Danes are not ones for frills, embellishments or loud colour pallets. Keep your space free from clutter, stick to a monochromatic colour pallet, and carefully curate the items use to accessorize. Since Hygee is all about creating a environment, consider a display of favorite photos, souvenir’s or paintings.
Step #4: Bring the outdoors indoors
Adapt you décor to be a little more in tune with nature by incorporating natural materials like wood, stones and live plants into your space. Adding these organic elements and limiting plastics and manufactured materials will add to a scene of calm and tranquility.
Step #5: Embrace the odd and imperfect
The Danes hate to waste anything, so reuse what you can. Up-cycle or re purpose old objects if they are still useful instead of replacing them for aesthetics. That means you can hang on to your favorite coffee mug even if it has a chip. Embracing small imperfections rather than buying lots of brand new things is essential to the Hygee philosophy.
Step#6: You don’t have to it Hygee alone.
Typically a social activity, Hygge is best enjoyed with friends! Gather around a fire, enjoy some coffee or mulled beverage, eat wholesome foods and shut out the rest of the outside world. That means no cellphones, tablets or computers…. Hygee is a time to enjoy the company of friends and family!
