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I have been thinking and thinking about my word for 2019. Something that fully encompasses what I want for this year. I looked up word after word. I had a few phrases in mind like Be Still. ( I have a tattoo with that saying) Contentment. Create Memories. Be Present. But I wanted something that meant all those things! That is when I stumbled upon Hygge.

Hygge (pronounces “hoo-gah”) is a Danish and Norwegian word. There are many definitions online. The word hygge comes from a Danish word meaning “to give courage, comfort, joy” or a mood of coziness and comfortable with feelings of wellness and contentment.  The warm and cozy lifestyle that hygge promotes has been a key part of Danish culture since the early 1800s when the word first appeared in the written language. It’s derived from a Norwegian word for “well-being”. Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are some of the happiest people in the world.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary: Hygge a Danish word for a quality of cosiness (= feeling warm, comfortable, and safe) that comes from doing simple things such as lighting candles, baking, or spending time at home with your family.

Now, apparently this word and style of living have been all the rage. BUT I must have been under a rock! This is the first time I have heard about it. There are books, candles, blankets, even shower curtains and more helping people achieve hygge. But after some research of the true meaning of hygee I realize this is not something you can buy. This is something that you are and DO!

Hygge is finding joy in the simple things in life!

Hygge  is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special. – per Hygge House

Kay Xander Mellish, a podcast host and author of _[amazon_textlink asin=’8771882960′ text=’How to Live in Denmark’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’loveandcent0d-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’99537151-0df2-11e9-a50a-9fb8409d9dcf’] says that hygge means “taking time to focus on your personal relationships, on nature, on enjoying what you have, on being cozy, and not trying to take in the world—but focusing on what’s right in front of you, while it’s right in front of you.”

After researching for hours here are some things that describe living a  hygge life:

  • intimate moments
  • shared meals
  • compassionate interaction
  • a hike or enjoying nature
  • cooking a meal together
  • reading a good book
  • watching a sunset
  • creating a simple and cozy atmoshphere
  • things that bring relaxation and refresh the soul
  • fuzzy socks and a soft blanket
  • building sandcastles
  • look at beautiful things
  • create new memories in simple moments
  • be present – no checking emails all weekend or playing or swiping mindlessly
  • candles and fires

So there it is! Everything I was wanting to wrap into one word! It is hygge! My word is hygge and I am so excited to take these things I have learned and embrace this! It will be hard as I am such a busy, multi tasking person but I think this is exactly what I need. I think it will be great for my physical and mental health! I will try to share on Instagram and here on the blog what I learn and try along the way!

Here are some books I am looking into or referenced to learn more. [amazon_link asins=’0062658808,0718185331,1729075266,0399579931,B01DV619C2′ template=’ProductGrid’ store=’loveandcent0d-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’797803d4-0d94-11e9-8d0d-fbb80aac2460′]

Heather Brummett

I am Heather Brummett . I'm just a real mom, sharing my real life experiences with the world. Thank you for being a part of my world. Here you will find recipes, crafts, fun ideas for the kids, how to work at home, encouragement, inspiration, and the latest news in and around Houston. To be featured or for information on freelance work contact me at [email protected].

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