The Danish term, hygge, was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2017. Yet for many, the meaning remains elusive, as they come across it in a variety of contexts, from clothing to Nordic crime. So, what exactly does it mean?
Time out
Hygge is pronounced hooga, and it refers to taking time out from the chaos of daily life to enjoy quieter pleasures, usually with the people you care about. It has an ancient history, with the route of hygge being traced back to an old Norse word that means protected from the outside world.
Often it can refer to sharing food and drinks with family and friends, usually in an informal setting such as cosily in the home in winter or a picnic in summer where everyone has the chance to unwind.
Hygge products
With the concept proving popular, retailers and designers have been quick to cash in with products labelled as hygge. These tend to be comforting products such as snuggly blankets, soothing candles, and soft sweaters. If you like crafts such as knitting, you could make hygge blankets, shawls, and scarves to treat yourself or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one. A knitting kit from retailers like woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits are a good way to get started.
A Danish concept
Hygge embodies the values of Danish society in its wish for consensus, equality, and prioritising the well-being of everyone. Although it is easier to achieve in familiar surroundings with familiar faces, tourists visiting Denmark often hope to experience hygge, perhaps finding it in the Danish countryside and cuisine.
