It’s really cold outside. So now is the perfect time to embrace coziness – or as the Danes like to call it: Hygge. 

But before we start…some basics

“Hygge” is pronounced “hooga” 

Definition: a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).

What does hygge look like? 

Denmark’s official website tells us that hygge can be hard to explain, but you can think of it as getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. That’s one of the reasons that winter is the perfect time to try it out. The freezing temps have driven us inside, so might as well make the most of it. 

Some examples used to describe hygge include: 

The warm glow of candlelight

Having a movie night at home with your bestie 

Curling up in your favorite blanket with a book 

An impromptu board game night with your family 

While Hygge can be seen in these settings and more, the biggest draw is that it’s very popular in Denmark, which was ranked the second happiest country in the world as part of the World Happiness Report. The word even has a deep history in the country, being used in its modern sense as far back as the 1800s. But there’s a history of this kind of concept in Norse vocabulary that dates all the way back to the Middle Ages. 

If you’ve already got your Hygge Pinterest board started, you’re probably thinking to yourself, “is this just an interior design trend?” And while yes, you’ve got a point – hygge is more a state of living than a way to design your home. But your room aesthetic is definitely a good place to start. So here are some items that can help incorporate Hygge into your winter life. 

A favorite mug to fill with something warm

Cozy socks 

Lots of candles to replace that overhead lighting 

A physical book to read

Chunky blankets 

Neutral and natural colors 

Windows with picturesque views

Reading nooks 

Fireplaces 

Twinkle lights