Hygge is in the Danish DNA

 

Hooga? Hhyooguh? Heurgh? It is not important how you choose to pronounce or even spell “hygge”. To paraphrase one of the greatest philosophers of our time – Winnie-the-Pooh – when asked how to spell a certain emotion, “You don’t spell it, you fell it”.

– Meik Wiking

When we in Denmark are masters of cosiness, it’s not just because we’re good at turning up in the fireplace and filling the teacups. It’s also due to the Danish social model, which favours us with short working weeks and welfare benefits, and provides a blanket of comfort and security. 

 

 

The concept of hygge is also known in other countries, as Meik Wiking writes in his little book of hygge.  It’s just named differently:

The Netherlands (Gezelligheid), Germany (Gemütlichkeit), Norway (Koselig), and Canada (Hominess)

 

There are many similarities in how we experience hygge in the different countries! But all over it is more like a lifestyle! It’s remarkable that several of these countries mentioned above are at the top of the happiest people in the world of the official happiness charts commissioned by the UN. I believe that hygge makes us feel more unstressed and confident in our daily lives.

 

Photo: Bellepaga