Hygge — What is it?

A term you’ve probably seen plastered over countless Pinterest boards and featured in this New Yorker article, “hygge”, (pronounced hoo-guh) is a Danish term used to explain the feeling of contentment, well-being, and coziness. Though it has no true English translation, it’s gained massive popularity over the past few years.

Winter is the most hygge time of the year. This concept is all about the warm and fuzzy side of life: cozy slippers, roaring fireplaces, and soft blankets. But it’s so much more than that. It can be found in a cup of tea, while sitting with loved ones, or inside the crackling of a candle wick.

Adding warmth to your life is simpler than you think. I wrote this hygge-inspired article for an introduction to sprucing up your bedroom. If you want to make any space a bit cozier and content, add fuzzy pillows, soft rugs, softly dimmed string lights, and a couple of close friends (or your pet!).

Most importantly, hygge focuses on the present. Today, we’re drowning under a siege of notifications and it seems that our surrounding technology is inescapable. “But what about my followers?” Uhh, do you remember your real friends? As much as our lives do center around technology, we’re doing nothing but good when we take a break from technology. Put down the phone, power down your laptop, and enter the present. Curl up with a good book by the fire. Go to dinner with your family. Have a tech-free game night. Little things throughout the day can make you feel more connected without feeling like you NEED your phone.

This warm and fuzzy concept isn’t new, but platforms like Pinterest and Facebook have made it more accessible to the masses.

With so many holistic concepts like natural medicine and clean eating entering the mainstream, it’s no wonder that this Danish concept has gained so much popularity. It’s almost as is society is reverting back to a simpler time, which in my opinion, can do nothing but good.

Hygge helps us stay present, centered, and focused so that we can advance and better ourselves without forgetting the things that really matter. It’s so much more than blankets and lights.