Hygge: The Danish Secret to a Cozy Life

What is hygge? Is that even a word? If so, how on this revolving earth do you even pronounce it?

Well… yes, hygge is a word. To answer the second question first, hygge is a Danish word, and it is pronounced as hoo-gah (tak to the folks over at VisitDenmark for this handy pronunciation help). Hygge doesn’t really have a direct English translation, but it is this cozy word that describes a sense of warm, cozy, good feeling around good people in a good environment. It’s this concept of being cozy and cosy.

Picture a room with glowing candles…. mmm….. so, unscented ones are the preferred Danish way to avoid that fragrance overload, but if you prefer scented candles for a little something extra, then those work just as fine. With a movie in the background or a book in hand, while you are snuggled up to your chin in a soft blanket. Add a cup of hot chocolate on the side, and snacks for munching, mums as the Danes say. And just like that… you have this special, one of a kind, comforting moment alone or with good people around. That is hygge.

How to hygge?

When it is raining or snowing or just chilly outside, the best way to hygge is to set a warm and relaxing indoor sanctuary wherever you are. Think blankets and pillows and socks and all. A tug-your-heartstrings type of movie or show on a screen. Or catchy music humming in the background. Or a cannot-put-away book in hand. Warm drinks ready to be sipped. All these fuzzy ways to keep you warm and cozy hit the mark for hygge in the cold.

But when it is breezy and sunny and the birds are chirping? The best way to hygge is to set a memorable experience outdoors, or even indoors. It’s about having a delicious and feastly barbecue or any sort of outdoor meal with friends and family. Or roasting marshmallows for some s’mores, MUMS MUMS MUMS. It’s stargazing on a moonlit night sky. Going for walks in a local farmer’s market or getting lost among the flowers and the trees and the greens. All these and more are the summery ways to find that comforting escape even under the golden sun… surely, you’re hygge-ing.

The Hygge Emergency Kit

• The fluff: your most comforting-always-feels-like-a-hug blanket (and fuzzy socks are a must!)
• The glow: candles for a warm light (scented or unscented, you get to choose)
• The sip: high-quality cocoa mix or tea for sipping; something that requires a mug you have to hold with both hands
• The mums: your mix of yummy treats that puts a smile on your face and makes you feel okay
• The quiet: a pre-made playlist of tunes that help you relax, unwind, and forget
• The read: your favorite cannot-put-away book or magazine
• The watch: your comforting movie or a show you’ve seen a thousand times

Pro-tip: Every once in a while, check in to see if your "mums" or "sips" have expired. You don't want anything old in the mix when you're looking for comfort!