What's the meaning of hygge?

David Newton

May 15, 2025

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What's the meaning of Hygge? Our Top 5!

Cosy Comfort: Creating warmth and contentment through simple pleasures.
Togetherness: Fostering connection with loved ones in intimate settings.
Mindfulness: Focusing on the present moment, enjoying life's small joys.
Simplicity: Embracing minimalism and slowing down for a peaceful life.
Nature-Inspired: Incorporating natural elements for grounding and relaxation.

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a Danish word that doesn’t have a direct English translation, yet it has gained global popularity for its unique ability to capture a feeling of warmth, contentment, and well-being. Often described as the art of cosiness, hygge is more than just candles and blankets—it’s a mindset and a way of life that focuses on savouring simple pleasures and creating meaningful moments.

Rooted in Denmark, hygge has become a cultural phenomenon that offers a blueprint for slowing down, connecting with others, and finding joy in everyday life. Here’s a deeper dive into what hygge means and how you can incorporate its principles into your own life.

1. The Origins of Hygge

Hygge has its roots in the Old Norse word “hugga,” which means “to comfort” or “to console.” Over time, this evolved into the Danish concept of hygge, which embodies cosiness, togetherness, and a sense of well-being.

Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, and hygge plays a key role in this. In a country with long, dark winters, hygge provides a way to embrace the season rather than dread it. By creating warm, inviting spaces and prioritising joy in daily life, Danes have turned hygge into a cultural cornerstone that brings happiness and balance to their lives year-round.

2. What Hygge Is (and Isn’t)

At its core, hygge is about cultivating an atmosphere of comfort, safety, and happiness. It’s not about materialism or perfection; instead, it’s about finding contentment in the simple and the ordinary.

What Hygge Is:
- Lighting candles while enjoying a quiet evening with a good book.
- Sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones.
- Taking a long walk in nature and feeling the crisp air on your face.
- Wrapping yourself in a soft blanket on a chilly night.
What Hygge Isn’t:
- A complicated design trend or a checklist of must-have items.
- About lavish luxury or expensive purchases.
- A fleeting fad—it’s a deeply ingrained lifestyle.

3. The Elements of Hygge

Hygge isn’t limited to one activity or setting; it’s a holistic approach to life that can be cultivated through various elements:

1. Atmosphere

Lighting plays a significant role in creating hygge. Soft, warm lighting from candles or lamps with warm-toned bulbs can instantly make a space feel more inviting. Dim the overhead lights and let the gentle glow of a candle or fairy lights take center stage.

2. Togetherness

Hygge thrives on connection. Spending quality time with loved ones—whether it’s a quiet evening at home, a board game night, or a shared meal—fosters a sense of belonging and joy.

3. Comfort

Comfortable surroundings are key. Think plush cushions, soft throws, and cosy rugs that invite you to relax and stay awhile. Hygge is about creating spaces where you can fully unwind.

4. Presence

Hygge encourages mindfulness and being present in the moment. Whether you’re sipping tea, baking bread, or chatting with a friend, hygge asks you to slow down and enjoy the experience.

5. Nature

Bringing elements of nature into your home—like houseplants, wooden furniture, or fresh flowers—adds a grounding touch that connects you to the world outside.

4. Hygge Year-Round

While hygge is often associated with winter, it’s a concept that can be embraced all year long.

Spring and Summer Hygge:
- Enjoy a picnic in the park with a soft blanket and fresh strawberries.
- Take an evening walk to watch the sunset.
- Gather friends for an outdoor dinner under string lights.
Autumn and Winter Hygge:
- Light a fire, grab a hot drink, and curl up with a good book.
- Bake seasonal treats like cinnamon rolls or pumpkin bread.
- Host a cozy gathering with candles, hearty food, and warm drinks.

5. The Hygge Mindset

Hygge isn’t just about physical comforts—it’s a mental and emotional practice of gratitude and contentment. It asks you to appreciate the small joys of life, whether that’s a peaceful moment in the morning, the laughter of friends, or the first sip of coffee on a chilly day.

Adopting a hygge mindset can help you:

Reduce Stress: Slowing down and simplifying your life creates space for relaxation.
Build Relationships: Prioritizing time with loved ones strengthens bonds and deepens connections.
Boost Happiness: Focusing on gratitude and mindfulness helps you find joy in the everyday.

6. How to Hygge Your Life

Incorporating hygge into your life doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Start with small, intentional steps:

Light a candle during dinner to create a cosy ambiance.
Unplug from technology for an evening and enjoy a book or a conversation.
Spend a weekend morning baking or cooking something from scratch.
Add soft textures, like a knit throw or a fluffy rug, to your living space.
Plan a gathering with friends or family, focusing on good food, laughter, and togetherness.

Final Thoughts

Hygge is about creating a life filled with warmth, comfort, and contentment. It’s not just about how your home looks, but how it feels. By embracing the principles of hygge—connection, mindfulness, and simple pleasures—you can bring more happiness and balance into your everyday life.

Whether it’s relaxing with a book, sharing a laugh with a friend, or simply appreciating the beauty of the moment, hygge invites you to slow down and savor the small joys that make life truly meaningful.

What does hygge mean to you? Find out more by reviewing our range of Made in Britain hygge products.