Often we have the idea that happiness is something we can find out there - somewhere. But hygge it is not something you only find in Scandinavia - Hygge is universal and you probably already recognise it. The key to feeling more hygge is prioritising and being aware of the hygge moments in our everyday.

Marie Tourell Søderberg

Marie Tourell Søderberg

Hygge is the sensation of familiarity, of being seen and recognised, and feeling at home. You experience it when you are able to be fully present in the moment, feel content and at ease. Hygge often happens when you are together with the people closest to you, your nearest and dearest; people with whom you can be open and sincere with - where you don't have to pretend to be anything besides who you are. It is not in hygge that we find ecstatic joy, and often momentary, happiness. Hygge is everyday happiness and contributes to a general contentedness in the long term.

As the main thing in hygge is the quality of togetherness, here are three inspirational ideas to help invite more hygge into your life:

  • Invite friends home to a low-key-leftover dinner on a weekday evening. Make them bring a dish or some wine, and make it easy for yourself so the feeling of togetherness can take center stage.
  • You can hygge with yourself or together with other people, and often the main thing is making a moment special. Make the surroundings hygge-inviting by lighting a candle and brewing a cup of tea and sit down in a place you find comfortable and give yourself a break to relax after a long day.
  • It is through hygge that we find and build really strong relationships with other people. As close relationships are one of the most important contributors to our happiness and wellbeing, prioritize spending time with close your friends, family and children. Read a book aloud, play a game, go for a walk or curl up in the corner of the sofa and listen to the falling rain.