The Danish Hygge
In the world happiest country a word pops out: Hygge.
Pronounced “hoo-ga” is a famous Danish and Norwegian word without translation to any other language, some even say “Hygge was never meant to be translated – it was meant to be felt”! The closest translation to english is cosiness. But what does it mean? And how can we learn from it?
Its origins: the word “hygge” comes from a Norwegian word meaning “wellbeing”. It first appeared in Danish writing in the 19th Century and has since evolved into the cultural idea known in Denmark and Norway today. For Danish it means “a concept, originating in Denmark, of creating cosy and convivial atmospheres that promote wellbeing” – its a psychological definition instead of a physical definition. Maybe here its even a necessity to endure these cold winter months…
So when you are on that cold winter nights, covered in a warm blanket by the fireplace… When you are with your friends and family having a nice dinner… When you are drinking an amazing coffee and just watching the world go by… When you treat yourself with some relaxing time during the day… When you are simply enjoying existence… That is HYGGE!

In Denmark this has become so culturally entrenched in everyday activities, that it has became part of their identity. Its a country where getting to know yourself in those deep moments is prioritised in your routine, in the end, making the ordinary meaningful.
Its cool, isn’t it? So lets learn to get more in touch with ourselves and the world and practice Hygge every day for a happier life!!
My girl friends recently purchased a book by the same name, and we loved reading parts of it together. Clearly this needs to be felt to be understood well..
Hello Siddhartha! Yes, there are a lot of books and talk about the Danish Hygge. Altogether they all summarise to the same thing: stop, think in yourself for a part of your day and just enjoy being. And that needs to be felt, like you said. Thanks for your comment!
Is there a similar word to describe a similar sentiment in English…I don’t think so. It reminds me of the Swedish word Fika which on the outside seems to be about drinking coffee but really means just to stop and enjoy being. Such a wonderful concept I wis was more adopted here in the U.S.
Hello Jackie! Yes, Scandinavia has it all – between the Hygge by the Danish and the Fika by the Swedish, I believe they truly enjoy just being. I hope it gets more adopted worldwide! Thanks for your comment!
This is cool. I heard of the word before but never knew what it meant. I love the meaning behind it, sounds comforting and warm
Thanks for your comment Natasha!
I will be in Denmark in a week’s time and I can’t wait to experience Hygge- of which I have heard so much- for myself. Like you said, it was not meant to be translated but to be felt- so I hope I’ll do that soon.
Thanks for your comment! Hope you love Denmark as much as we did!
I love the concept of Hygge, and I’ve heard it catching on as quite the trend around the world recently – thankfully always attributed to the Danes and not ripped off as a different culture!
Hello Megan! Yes, we loved it too, that is why we shared! Its quite a trend actually, but in a good way. If we all experienced Hygge in an everyday basis maybe we would not be so stressed out in our everyday lives! Thanks for your comment!
A perfect way to relax during winter! The Danes have it figured out between Hygge and being one of the happiest cultures 🙂
Yes, they do. You feel a different vibe there. Thanks for your comment!
The Danes are such a nice culture. I learnt something reading your post and love the meaning behind it! thank you for sharing
Thanks for your comment!
I believe everyone in every country in the world should learn the concept of hygge. I love the idea of getting in touch with myself and doing things that I love doing.
Thanks Barb! We loved the concept (and the practice too). Hope it inspired you too. Thanks for your comment!
Hmmmm I didn’t know what it meant, but now I I love the concept!
We are happy it inspired you Pedro! Thanks for the comment!