THE DANISH CONCEPT OF “HYGGE”

What is Hygge? Hard to explain and even harder to pronounce, the Danish word hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”) has exploded in popularity around the world. It translates roughly to “coziness,” but it means so much more than that. So what is hygge, really? What Does Hygge Mean? Hygge is as Danish as aebleskiver and it goes far in illuminating the Danish soul. In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Cozying up with a loved one for a movie — that’s hygge, too. And there’s nothing more hygge than sitting around with friends and family, discussing the big and small things in life. Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are said to be some of the happiest people in the world! The Origins of Danish Hygge Hygge didn’t originate in the Danish language but in old Norwegian, where it meant something like “well-being.” It first appeared in Danish writing around the end of the 18th Century and the Danes have embraced it ever since. One good thing about hygge is that you can apply it anywhere, and Danes allocate it generously to everything commonplace.
The High Season of Hygge is winter and Christmas. Danes lead a secular lifestyle but when it comes to religious holidays, they pull out all the stops. Danish winters are known to be long and dark, and so the Danes fight the darkness with their best weapon: hygge, and the millions of candles that go with it. If you have ever been to Tivoli Gardens or walked the streets of Copenhagen during the festive season, you have an idea of what Danes can do with lighting, mulled wine (known as glogg for the locals), blankets and oversized scarves.
This winter and the Christmas season is the time to think about adding a little hygge to your life! It’s the best time to enjoy beautiful candles, relax in front of a cozy fireplace, read a great book, and spend time with your favorite family & friends with a wonderful simple meal!