Embrace the art of Hygge this fall

Cultivate Comfort with This Danish Practice.

Designed by Alexis Renae

Fall is here, so it’s time to go full cozy mode. What better way to get into the spirit of refueling your cup and rejuvenating your soul than by exploring the art of Hygge?

Continue reading to learn more about this Danish practice, “The Little Book of Hygge” by Meik Wiking, and ideas to prepare your next hygge.

All About Hygge

Designed by Alexis Renae

I first learned about hygge while scrolling through Pinterest, looking for fall coziness inspiration. Combing through pictures of coffee mugs, warm sweaters, and other aesthetic staples for the season, I came across tons of information on how to embrace this cultural practice.

Hygge [hue-gah] noun

“A quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture.” Hygge Definition, Oxford Languages via Google

Deepening typical American cultural associations with fall coziness, hygge is an active concept that involves more than just creating a comfortable environment.

**Hygge is a way of life in Danish culture. It provides a path toward happiness, togetherness, safety, and security.**

The Little Book of Hygge

Design by Alexis Renae

Meik Wiking author and CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, discusses Hygge’s cultural background, influence, and practices in his book, “The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living.”

Wiking emphasizes that you can enjoy hygge all year round, but it’s especially important during the colder parts of the year. As it gets colder and the sun is out less, practicing hygge helps you build your own hearth — your own sense of warmth.

Wiking says,

“Hygge is about an atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. It is about being with the people we love. A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe, that we are shielded from the world and allow ourselves to let our guard down.”

Hygge supports everyday happiness because it is a little haven of happiness to relax, connect, unwind, and rejuvenate yourself.

By regularly practicing hygge, you are intentionally carving out time to experience joy, savor variety, and connect with loved ones.

Hygge Manifesto

The Hygge Manifesto helps you prepare and sustain your haven.

1. Atmosphere. Create a relaxing and nurturing space for your soul.
2. Presence. Unplug from technology and immerse yourself in the experience.
3. Pleasure. Indulge in sweet, savory, and comforting foods and beverages.
4. Equality. Work together with your companions to prepare and enjoy your hygge.
5. Gratitude. Be grateful for your life, loved ones, and the opportunity to experience hygge.
6. Harmony. Do not brag or talk about status.
7. Comfort. Unwind and wear something cozy.
8. Truce. Do not discuss stressful conversation topics or anything that would dull the vibe.
9. Togetherness. Connect through fun experiences and bond over old memories.
10. Shelter. Create a safe, secure place physically and emotionally.

Hygge’s Manifesto underscores how to build a welcoming atmosphere for togetherness and happiness to thrive.

“Time spent with others creates an atmosphere that is warm, relaxed, friendly, down to earth, close, comfortable, snug, and welcoming.

In many ways, it’s like a good hug, but without the physical contact. It is in this situation that you can be completely relaxed in yourself. The art of Hygge is therefore also the art of expanding your comfort zone to include other people.” Meik Wiking, “The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living”

In all, you are creating a safe space for your mind, body, and soul, so that you can experience handcrafted coziness with your companions.

Author Recommended Hygge Essentials

Wiking emphasizes in his book that you always have these items in stock so that you can have a hygge whenever it’s needed.

• Candles,
• Chocolate,
• Your favorite tea,
• Your favorite book,
• Your favorite film or TV series,
• Some jam,
• Wool socks,
• Letters written to you from loved ones,
• A comfy sweater,
• And a notebook.

Embracing Hygge

Photo by Ioana Motoc from Pexels

Hygge does not require extravagance or expense. Rather, it is about regularly enjoying comforting habits in supportive spaces.

Be gentle with yourself and create a safe space for yourself and your small circle of loved ones.

Reflection Prompt

Brainstorm different types of cozy rituals you can enjoy day-to-day. Think of relaxing activities you can enjoy in five minutes, one hour, and one day.

Consider the Hygge Manifesto, your interests, and people you can possibly include in your hygge. Whether you enjoy these activities alone or with loved ones, you have a list of potential activities you can use whenever you are ready to have a hygge.

Personally,

• Five minutes: Write for a personal gratitude journaling session
• One hour: Watch a favorite fall show like The Gilmore Girls
• One day: Enjoy an indoor camping movie marathon

Hygge Ideas

• Gather friends and family for a weekly book club.
• Enjoy board games and puzzles.
• Practice brewing savory seasonal drinks from home.
• Go apple picking then bake sweet treats.
• Craft and swap seasonal gifts.

Wrap Up and Warm Wishes

Rejuvenate your soul with the art of hygge! Wishing you every happiness this season.

Until next time, remember to make life an adventure 🧡