The concept of hygge came to us from Denmark. It was there that people came up with a special word to define the state of momentary happiness, a cozy moment, joy in little things.
The history of this word begins at the end of the 19th century, when the Danes borrowed "hygge" from the Norwegian language. In Norway at that time, it meant "prosperity, well-being." But the Danes found him a deeper and deeper meaning. So what is hygge? It is actually a state or atmosphere when a person feels happiness through daily little things that are available to everyone. There is absolutely no need for money to achieve hygge. It is even believed that the less money you spent on it, the more “correct” this state will be.
Hygge is gathering around a warm fireplace. Or a cup of hot coffee in the morning. Or your favorite blanket with a book before bed. The smile of a child. Warm bubble bath. Or dawn in the forest. It can be anything. The main thing is that it gives you pleasure and a feeling of comfort, bordering on bliss. It is important not just to perform some pleasant ritual, but to enjoy the moment: to realize it and feel its fullness.
In Denmark, not only the state itself is usually called hygge, but everything that helps us get into this state. For example, you might have a favorite hygge sweater that always makes you feel cozy and warm. Favorite hygge scent that awakens the most pleasant sensations and memories. Favorite hygge friends, with whom it is especially pleasant and comfortable for you to spend time. Even Friday evening can be a hygge, because it is at this time that someone gathers with the whole family and has a cozy time. Thus, this magic word can be added to absolutely any phenomenon that somehow brings you a feeling of serenity and happiness.
What can you do to feel the hygge?
·. This is indeed one of the attributes of a pleasant state. The weather in many parts of Russia is not inferior to the dank and cloudy climate of Denmark, so we, like no one else, are able to understand the magic of burning candles.
·. This can be a wide window sill, on which you can comfortably sit in soft pillows. Or maybe you already have a favorite chair in which you like to spend your evenings. A secluded spot can even be in a familiar cafe, where you go every day for a cup of coffee.
·. Good communication between people is considered to be very important for hygge. We are social creatures, so it's hard to be happy without contact with other people. The Danes believe that 3-4 people are the best company for comfortable communication.
·. Even if you are on a diet, treat yourself to at least a little bit "junk" food. Coffee, chocolate, cake or ice cream are great food for happiness! But the carrot salad is not very good. Although, if you are one of those special people for whom the carrot salad is above all sweets and joys, then let it be it. And also remember that overeating so that your belly swells is no longer hygge.
·. It is believed that it is easier for a person to get into a state of cozy joy in his own home. Get something that is pleasant to look at and pleasant to touch. Let it be a blanket, or china dishes, or a soft carpet under your feet, or an old beautiful table. The more pleasant objects there are around you, the more often you will experience hygge.
·. With a guitar - perfect! The special charm of such meetings will add coziness and warmth to your whole life.