Hygge

Hygge
Picture by Justin Parkinson.
Decade of origin	c. 1800s (dates back to the Middle Ages)
Key motifs	Candles, warm drinks, gatherings, natural materials
Key colours	Warm, soft tones
Key values	Comfort, togetherness, simplicity, well-being
Related aesthetics	Autumn Comfy/Cozy Cottagecore Japandi Minimalism New Age Northerness Scandi Girl Winter Scandinavian Design Winter
Related media	"The Little Book of Hygge" by Meik Wiking

Hygge is a word in Danish and Norwegian that describes a cozy, contented mood evoked by comfort and conviviality. Though the concept and its practices have essentially the same meaning in both languages, hygge is more deeply entrenched in Danish culture, where it is considered a central part of the national identity. The term, pronounced "hoo-gah," dates back to around 1800, with roots in an Old Norse word meaning "protected from the outside world."

Hygge typically involves informal gatherings with family or close friends, often at home, sharing meals and drinks in a relaxed setting. It emphasizes unwinding and enjoying small joys. Even though hygge has been commercialized through products like blankets and candles, it remains fundamentally about social connection and comfort. Internationally, it is mostly associated with the winter and autumn, reflecting an energy of comfort and unwinding during these months. However, hygge is all year-round phenomenon.

Tourism has also seen an increase in interest in hygge experiences. While the concept exists in both Denmark and Norway, its emphasis as a core part of Danish culture is a recent phenomenon, dating to the late 20th century. In the 21st century, the concept has gained international recognition, especially in the late-2010s.

Hygge is deeply ingrained in Danish culture, particularly during winter, due to the climate. It reflects Danish values of equality and well-being, fostering a consensus-driven, positive atmosphere. However, hygge can also present challenges for newcomers to Denmark, as its focus on close-knit gatherings can make it difficult for outsiders to participate.

History

Origins

The word "hygge" has a complex etymology, with roots in several different but connected concepts. While its precise origin remains a point of debate among scholars, it is generally accepted that "hygge" is derived from a combination of Old Norse and Danish terms relating to comfort, joy, embrace, and well-being.

One line of thought suggests that "hygge" stems from the Danish word meaning "valiant, comfort, joy," which itself is linked to the Old Norse word "hyggja," meaning "to think." Another theory posits that "hygge" is related to the Old Norse word "hugr," meaning "soul, mind, consciousness," highlighting the connection between "hygge" and an inner state of contentment. Yet another possibility is that "hygge" derives from the 1560s word "hugge," meaning "to embrace," which is associated with the Old Norse term "hygga," meaning "to comfort." These various etymological theories share a central theme: a focus on emotional well-being and a sense of contentment.

"Hygge" first appeared in Danish writing in the 19th century, evolving from these earlier roots to become the cultural concept recognized in Denmark and Norway today.

Evolution

While "hygge" exists in both Danish and Norwegian, its cultural significance differs between the two countries. In both languages, "hygge" refers to "a form of everyday togetherness," emphasizing safety, equality, and a sense of personal wholeness. However, the emphasis on "hygge" as a core cultural element is primarily a Danish phenomenon. In Norway, "hygge" is a commonly used word but does not carry the same level of cultural importance as it does in Denmark.

In Denmark, "hygge" has become deeply ingrained in customs. It is considered a way of life that values coziness, simplicity, and being present in the moment. Many Danes actively cultivate "hygge" in their daily lives, from enjoying home-cooked meals and creating cozy interiors to engaging in outdoor activities like picnics and cycling. The concept of "hygge" even influences social institutions like prisons, where efforts are made to create a more comfortable and humane environment.

Popularization

Hygge gained wider international recognition in the 2010s. In 2016, it was shortlisted for Oxford Dictionaries' word of the year, alongside terms like "alt-right" and "Brexiteer," reflecting its rising prominence amidst a turbulent social and political climate. The growing international interest in hygge coincided with a surge in publications about the concept. In 2016 alone, at least six books on the topic were published in the United States, with titles like "The Year of Living Danishly" by Helen Russell and "How to Hygge: The Nordic Secrets to a Happy Life" by Signe Johansen.

A similar trend was observed in the United Kingdom, with nine books featuring "hygge" in their titles published in 2016 alone. This "hygge publishing craze" prompted an investigation by Charlotte Higgins in The Guardian, who noted the irony of the British fascination with a Danish concept that is difficult to pronounce and even harder to translate. The trend was hyped by extensive media coverage, with headlines like "Get Hygge With It!" and "Ten Reasons to Hygge..." appearing in various publications.

The hygge craze in the UK was not accidental but rather a result of deliberate efforts by British publishers and media. They recognized the appeal of hygge in a time of political uncertainty and capitalized on it by producing numerous books and articles on the topic. The trend was further amplified by social media, with a significant increase in "hygge"-related posts and pins on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. While the concept of "hygge" is inherently Danish, the hype surrounding it was largely manufactured in London. British publishers and media played a key role in promoting the concept for a British audience, turning it into a marketable commodity.

These publications introduced hygge to a global audience, including personal interpretations of the concept. Helen Russell, for example, defined "hygge" as "taking pleasure in the presence of gentle, soothing things," while Signe Johansen linked it to "healthy hedonism" through food and drink. Louisa Thomsen Brits, in "The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection," described it as "a practical way of creating sanctuary in the middle of very real life."

The international adoption of hygge is can be attributed to its association with Denmark's consistently high ranking in global happiness surveys. In the World Happiness Report, Denmark frequently occupies the top three positions, while the United States, for example, ranks 18th. This contrast has led some to believe that practicing hygge could be a pathway to greater happiness and well-being. Translating "hygge" into other languages can be difficult due to its specific cultural and emotional context, but this has not affected its global spread.

The concept has become popular among Cottagecore fans, especially as being almost a more wintery counterpart since typical Cottagecore visuals focus on flowers and picnics and other more springy vibes.

Visuals

While hygge is primarily an emotional state, certain visual elements are often associated with it. These elements can enhance the experience but are not essential for achieving hygge. Warm and inviting lighting is often associated with hygge. Candles, lamps with soft white bulbs, and string lights can create a cozy atmosphere. Fireplaces are also considered a quintessential element of hygge, providing warmth and a natural gathering spot.

Warm beverages, such as tea, hot chocolate, and coffee, are often associated with hygge, as are comfortable clothes and relaxing activities like reading. The concept of a "hyggekrog," a cozy nook or corner dedicated to relaxation, is also connected to the aesthetic. Natural colors and elements and spending time in nature are considered important aspects of hygge, evoking feelings of peace and connection to the natural world.

Hygge first and foremost prioritizes a feeling of contentment and well-being, independent of any specific visual environment.

Philosophy

Hygge's international popularization has led to some misconceptions and commercialization, but there are specific principles associated with the concept:

• Hygge is a feeling, not a trend: Hygge is an internal state of contentment and well-being, not a simple aesthetic or something to be achieved through external means.
• Hygge is about connection: Hygge prioritizes spending quality time with loved ones and fostering a sense of togetherness.
• Hygge is about appreciating the simple things: Hygge encourages finding joy in everyday moments and appreciating the small pleasures that life has to offer, like a warm drink on a cold day or a good conversation with friends.
• Hygge is about presence: Hygge emphasizes being present in the moment and savoring the experience, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
• Hygge is about comfort: Hygge values creating a cozy and comfortable environment, both physically and emotionally. It's about feeling safe, secure, and at ease.
• Hygge is not about material possessions or something to be purchased: While certain objects can enhance the experience of hygge, it is not dependent on material possessions or consumerism. Hygge can be found in the simplest of settings and activities.
• Hygge is year-round: Even though it has become associated with autumn and winter internationally, Hygge is not necessarily limited to a specific season or time of year. It can be experienced in any setting and at any time, as long as the focus is on connection, comfort, and appreciation for the simple things.

Activities

Hygge is associated with activities that promote relaxation, connection, and well-being. These can vary depending on individual preferences and the surrounding environment, but they typically involve creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere and enjoying simple pleasures.

Examples include:

• Spending quality time with family and friends, engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing meals, playing games, or simply relaxing and enjoying each other's company.
• Going for a walk in the park, hiking in the woods, or simply sitting in a garden to connect with the natural world and promote a sense of peace and tranquility.
• Relaxing at home with activities like reading a book, listening to music, taking a bath, or simply unwinding by the fireplace.
• Participating in creative pursuits, such as knitting, painting, baking, or playing music, as a source of self-expression, relaxation, and enjoyment.
• Taking the time to savor a warm drink on a cold day, enjoying a delicious meal, or appreciating the beauty of nature to appreciate the simple things and find contentment in everday moments.

Media

• How to Hygge: The Nordic Secrets to a Happy Life by Signe Johansen
• Hygge: The Danish Art of Happiness by Marie Tourell Søderberg 1
• The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Living Well by Louisa Thomsen Brits
• The Cozy Life: Rediscover the Joy of the Simple Things Through the Danish Concept of Hygge by Pia Edberg
• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking

Gallery