As the days grow shorter and winter approaches, we are often accompanied by feelings of fatigue and melancholy. This is the ideal time to learn more about the hygge philosophy - a Danish way of living that allows you to find joy in everyday moments. It is more than simply a fashion for cosy interiors. Hygge is the art of creating a space in which we can feel good, take pleasure in simple things and nurture inner peace.
What exactly is hygge?
Hygge is a Danish word that is difficult to translate directly. It is most often associated with a sense of comfort, cosiness and relaxation. It is about the ability to enjoy the moment and surround ourselves with things that make us feel happy. Hygge is about a lit candle on the table, a favourite mug of hot tea, a thick blanket on a chilly evening and time spent with loved ones, unhurried and without pressure. It's a philosophy that encourages you to slow down and focus on what's really important.
How do you incorporate hygge into your life?
Autumn and winter are the perfect time to discover hygge in your home. Here are some simple ways to help you incorporate this philosophy into your everyday life:
- 1. Create a cosy space – hygge is all about comfort, so creating a place where you feel comfortable is key. You can add soft cushions, blankets, light candles and go for natural materials such as wood or wool. Anything that makes the interior feel warm and welcoming is welcome.
- 2. candles and lighting – Danes love candles, which are an essential element of hygge. The warm light they give makes the room more intimate and peaceful. The light should be soft
- 3. Simple pleasures – Hygge is also about enjoying the small things that make us happy. It could be a hot chocolate on a chilly evening, a favourite book, a TV series or a quiet walk in the park. The key is to appreciate these small moments and enjoy them.
- 4. Surround yourself with loved ones – An important part of the Danish philosophy is spending time together with family and friends. These are the moments you share with others over a meal, a conversation or a board game. Hygge is about time without phones, social media and rushing around - being authentically here and now is what counts.
- 5. Daily rituals – Daily rituals that provide a sense of constancy and security are extremely important in the hygge philosophy. This could be the morning coffee-making ritual, reading a book in the evening or baking a cake at the weekend. These repetitive activities help to bring peace and harmony to life.
Hygge and autumn and winter
Although hygge can be practised all year round, it is autumn and winter that is the period when this philosophy plays a special role. Short days, cool evenings and often gloomy weather encourage the search for warmth and comfort. Rather than fighting the cold, the Danes have chosen to tame it by creating an atmosphere in which to enjoy a homely retreat.
It is worth remembering that hygge is not only a lifestyle, but also a way of thinking. Instead of complaining about the long, dark evenings, they can be embraced as the perfect opportunity to slow down, rest and regenerate. It's a time we can set aside to take care of ourselves and our relationships with others.
Hygge and minimalism
Hygge is often combined with minimalism, although they are not the same. It is not about getting rid of everything, but rather about choosing things that have meaning to us and make us feel happy. It's a philosophy against excess - instead of accumulating objects, we focus on what really gives us joy.
An example? Instead of a full wardrobe, half of which we don't wear, we choose a few favourite clothes that we feel most comfortable in. Instead of filling our flat with decorations that have no meaning for us, we surround ourselves with what has emotional value for us.
The benefits of hygge
The philosophy of hygge has many benefits, both for our mental and physical health. Regularly incorporating moments of peace and joy into everyday life helps reduce stress, increases happiness and improves relationships with others. At difficult times, when the weather outside the window is not cooperating, hygge can be an antidote to the winter blues. Alongside this, it also promotes physical health. Often, this means healthy food, rest, and outdoor physical activity - such as walks in the park or in the forest, which are also part of this lifestyle.
Summary
Hygge is a philosophy that helps to enjoy the small things, to see the beauty in everyday moments and to nurture inner peace. At LifeSpot, we care about the comfort and convenience of our residents. All our flats are furnished and equipped so that you don't have to worry about a thing. When the days get shorter and the weather is cold and grey outside, it is worth introducing a bit of hygge into your life - light a candle, make yourself a favourite drink, cover yourself with a warm blanket and enjoy a moment of relaxation. With hygge, even the bleak autumn and winter can become a cosy and joyful time in our lives.