Discover Hygge: The Danish Secret for Comfiness

Languages are a thing of beauty, and untranslatable terms are one of the many fascinating concepts that give us a glimpse into how a different culture views the world.

For example, the Portuguese language has saudade—a word that depicts a complex mix of melancholy, yearning, nostalgia, and solitude. On the other hand, the Germans have schadenfreude, the sensation of joy caused by someone else’s misfortune.

And the Danish have hygge.

As in the previous examples, Hygge is a bit hard to conceptualise in English—even though we could all benefit from including it. Ready to discover the Danish secret?

What is Hygge?

Hygge (pronounced as “hooga”) can be akin to the concept of “cosy,” although for the Danish, it is something a lot more specific than that.

According to Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “hygge” may date back to the Middle Ages, rooted in a similar word that meant “protected from the outside world.” This definition is much closer to what hygge is all about.

Hygge is the concept of making your home a sanctuary—a warm ambience that feels quiet and welcoming. It allows people to sit together with everything and everyone they love dearly as a respite from the daily rush. It’s about relaxation and gentle pleasures, like a good book or a cup of chocolate.

How did Hygge Come to Be?

Hygge may have originated from a desire to protect one’s happiness from the harshness of the outside world.

During winter, Denmark experiences inclement temperatures and little sunlight, dampening anyone’s spirits. As such, ensuring indoor spaces contained as much happiness as possible was critical, as Danish families were bound to spend plenty of time together inside.

Nowadays, regardless of the weather, most people live hectic lives and have chaotic jobs, making the need for a cosy refuge higher.

Does Hygge Work?

The Danish are well-known for consistently ranking at the top of every “happiest country in the world” ranking year after year. Sure, this may be due to the country’s social policies and welfare, but many Danes believe hygge—especially during wintertime—plays an essential role.

Hygge induces a sense of calm and peace, which can reduce the adrenal stress response. This decrease in cortisol spikes can, therefore, increase optimism, reduce depression and anxiety levels, and combat maladaptive coping strategies. Likewise, this can reflect on your physical health and improve your sleep and focus.

How You Can Achieve Hygge

Hygge is a very personal concept—your idea of a welcoming environment involves your loved ones, your hobbies, and what makes you happy. A fireplace, aromatic candles, cosy blankets, a soothing eye mask, and even gentle music can make a difference.

However, you’re in luck if you’d prefer a guideline. Meik Wiking is the CEO of The Happiness Research Institute—and more importantly, he’s Danish. According to his book The Little Book of Hygge, there is a “Hygge Manifesto” comprised of ten points.

Atmosphere: Dim the lights as much as possible to avoid harsh illumination and create a cosy atmosphere.

Presence: Enjoy the moment, so don’t escape into your phone or laptop.

Pleasure: Don’t hesitate to enjoy the little pleasures in life. A pastry, a cup of hot chocolate, or your favourite book.

Equality: Although hygge can be done alone, it’s best done in close and warm company, where everyone is equal and individualism is set aside.

Gratitude: Whether you are grateful for the blessings or appreciate the good, remember to relish the little things.

Harmony: Everyone should do their best to contribute to the shared space of happiness. It’s not a competition or a pageant.

Comfort: Get as comfortable as you can. A cosy sweater, a massaging neck pillow, or your favourite seat all work.

Truce: Avoid controversial topics—politics, religion, fights, or discussions can wait for another day or space.

Togetherness: Building bonds with others is at the heart of hygge. Sharing memories, interests, and joy strengthens bonds.

Shelter: Hygge turns your home into a shelter, not just against the weather but also for your peace of mind. Into a place you look forward to.

Soothing Your Spirits At Home

Hygge gives a name to that sensation we all look for—turning a house into a home and making it a space that can wash away the metaphorical grime of everyday life.

But as the Danish say, hygge is more than just an aesthetic. It’s not dimmed lights or a warm fireplace; it’s a space that allows you to indulge your five senses in sensations that bring you joy.

Beautiful spaces, soothing smells, delicious food, lovely music, joyful conversation and cosy textures might be the key to the Dane’s perpetual happiness.