As the busy holiday season approaches I have an interesting concept to share with my readers. I recently listened to a podcast titled “The Art of Hygge” pronounced “H-y (oo) –gge (geh)"
The podcast caught my attention since I have a Danish tennis friend and I’m learning about their culture as we share meals and friendship. Denmark is known as a country with the happiest people. Why is that, maybe it’s because of “Hygge”?
Definition of Hygge: It’s a Danish word for which we have no English translation. The closest we can get is “cozy” but hygge also means having a good time and fun in cozy surroundings. The concept of hygge is fundamental to the comfortable home and translates to a fireplace and a comfy spot in all corners. Some see it simply as the Danish ritual of enjoying life’s simple pleasures: friends, family, graciousness, contentment, a warm glow. Given the short days of winter in both Denmark and Wisconsin it’s easy to practice Hygge at home. Here are some ideas that work for me and might for you!
The holidays can be a bustling stressful time for all of us. There is more on our plate along with our typical responsibilities. But if you can create some time for yourself to unwind in an atmosphere of hygge even for a short time in the morning, your day is off to a nice start. Once you’re indoors after work in the winter, hygge comes naturally with a nice meal, good book or friends to share a conversation. Embrace hygge this season and create some contentment in your life!
Click here to navigate to the "Art of Hygge" podcast.
The podcast caught my attention since I have a Danish tennis friend and I’m learning about their culture as we share meals and friendship. Denmark is known as a country with the happiest people. Why is that, maybe it’s because of “Hygge”?
Definition of Hygge: It’s a Danish word for which we have no English translation. The closest we can get is “cozy” but hygge also means having a good time and fun in cozy surroundings. The concept of hygge is fundamental to the comfortable home and translates to a fireplace and a comfy spot in all corners. Some see it simply as the Danish ritual of enjoying life’s simple pleasures: friends, family, graciousness, contentment, a warm glow. Given the short days of winter in both Denmark and Wisconsin it’s easy to practice Hygge at home. Here are some ideas that work for me and might for you!
- Take time to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you wake up at home or in a café
- Embrace the snow and winter and get out to ski, snowshoe or just walk, feel the fresh air!
- Prepare a soup or stew in your crock-pot and enjoy the smell of a homemade meal after work
- Create a cozy and comfy area to enjoy a glass of wine and read, no computers allowed here!
- Use candles to create a nice glow in your home or light a fire
The holidays can be a bustling stressful time for all of us. There is more on our plate along with our typical responsibilities. But if you can create some time for yourself to unwind in an atmosphere of hygge even for a short time in the morning, your day is off to a nice start. Once you’re indoors after work in the winter, hygge comes naturally with a nice meal, good book or friends to share a conversation. Embrace hygge this season and create some contentment in your life!
Click here to navigate to the "Art of Hygge" podcast.
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