There’s a reason Denmark has been named one of the happiest countries in the world. Despite the cold harsh winds and the snowfall and the dark stormy winters, Denmark remains #2 on the list of the happiest countries (for comparison, the US is placed at number 14). Put simply, the reason the Danes remain so content is that they are one of the only countries to fully and completely embrace the hygge lifestyle.
As we’ve been talking about all week, hygge is all about being comfortable. It’s the art of creating intimacy and taking pleasure from the presence of soothing things, such as big comfy blankets, candles, hot drinks, warm socks, and delicious food. Hygge cannot really be explained…it’s there to be felt. It’s cuddling up on the sofa with a loved one or sharing a rich pot of stew with your closest friends. It’s staying in your bed on a Sunday afternoon or listening to the fire crackle as you read your favorite novel.
While you don’t need a book to tell you how to feel comfortable, it certainly can’t hurt! Filled with great advice on how to turn your living space into a cozy, intimate wonderland, The Little Book of Hygge is your ultimate guide into embracing hygge. It was the “Bible” my husband and I used to make our home more hygge, and we find ourselves coming back to it again and again for more ideas, recipes, and party suggestions.
Written by Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, this book is best read alongside a cup of hot tea and a piece of cake (or two!). Meik has spent years studying the hygge lifestyle, and his research has found that hygge really is the magic ingredient that makes the Danes one of the happiest nations in the world.
As we’ve discussed this week, this book was the fuel that encouraged us to embrace the hygge lifestyle and I’m telling you…THIS WORKS. You can read all the self-help books you want…watch all the shows and read all those quotes on Pinterest…but just the simple act of making your life more meaningful, spending time with the people you actually like, eating foods that are delicious and sensual, and filling your home with soft candlelight, warm blankets, and comfy furniture…this is the secret. Rather than buying a lamp, try some candles. Instead of buying wall art from World Market, try making something yourself using natural items. Rather than buy a blanket from Walmart, knit or crochet one yourself!
It’s not hard to make your home a happy place. Some simple changes can not only improve your dwelling, but can maybe even improve your overall happiness. So get those winter socks out of storage…wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket and turn off that freaking phone. Make some rich hot cocoa or some tasty spiced cider and give yourself over to the magical world of hygge.
Looking for a new book to read? Check in every Friday for a “Bee Happy” post, where I share reviews of books I’ve read or other book-themed lists.
The Hob-bee Hive 