Happiness is like a trend or What is hygge

Every person in your life probably have wondered – what is happiness? The concept is more than subjective, everyone has their own answer.

For some, happiness is the latest iPhone and watch from Technomarine, for others – the smile of the child, for the third – a long-awaited promotion, and fourth – to just let myself finally sleep in and spend the whole day in bed. Danes also on this account their views, which spilled over into his whole philosophy of happiness.

In our understanding, Denmark is self-sufficient and economically developed country and what its inhabitants can be of concern? However, everywhere is good where we are not. The “mere mortals” of the Danish Kingdom trouble enough competition in the labour market makes us constantly fight and prove their competence, everything is expensive, and besides, the taxes are prohibitive (Denmark is one of the most expensive countries in terms of taxation). Continuous stress. But not by bread alone!

Located in Northern Europe, Denmark can boast the cozy climate here is damp and cool even in summer. And with the onset of autumn until April, when Sunny days are sorely lacking, and does a wolf howl. However, it is not something to be depressed about! Despite the “burdens of service”, the Danes are one of the most happy and satisfied people in Europe.

We decided to find out how they do it. What is philosophy “, hygge” and why it is becoming so popular around the world? We, Ukrainians, can apply on yourself Danish “recipes of happiness” and to enjoy life, which is enough to take care of emptying the jars from Valerian? The answers we have tried to uncover below.

The contents

1. Outlook, huge
2. How to create hygge atmosphere
3. Cozy classes or How to have fun “, huge”
4. Hygge-fashion or What to wear to feel happy
5. Summary

Outlook, huge

To give a definite definition of hygge quite difficult. In the Danish word “hygge” has migrated from the Norwegian, and it meant “well-being” or “welfare”. Now it is better to equate to the concept of “comfort”, but if “hygge” to consider more deeply, rather it means “the atmosphere or feeling of happiness.”

By the way, in Copenhagen there is even the Institute for the study of happiness. Its founder, a scientist and chief ideologue Mike the Viking in her best-selling book “the Little book of Hygge. The secret of Danish happiness” suggests that the concept of “hygge” is not translated, and felt.

How to experience the charm of hygge? One of the most basic rules to enjoy the moment, live in the here and now and rejoice in the simple (one might even say modest) life’s pleasures. The phrase “the most important things in life aren’t things” accurately describes the philosophy of the “Danish happiness.”

Huge-pleasure – a Cup of fragrant cocoa, crackling logs in the fireplace, warm knitted socks, bulky sweaters and fluffy blankets, the sounds of the rain outside the window, when you are at home, homemade pastries with cinnamon and vanilla, interesting book and good company of loved ones. Hygge is all something we can enjoy every day and almost for free. Yes, to feel truly happy, do not have to be a millionaire.

Huge not compatible with the concept of gloss and luxury, – where there is a chic, completely absent, hygge. And Vice versa. This is a reflection of the lifestyle of the Danes themselves – they tend not to boast of their achievements, social status and level of income. The mayor, for example, it is easy to get to city hall by Bicycle, and the representatives of the families of Royal power (Denmark is still a Kingdom) calmly walk to shopping at conventional shopping malls and not order latest designer collection straight from the runway.

The phenomenon of hygge can (and even want) to talk a lot, but it’s time from theory to practice. Below we consider the main attributes of hygge, and that will help you to enjoy the ideology of “a modest happiness.”

How to create hygge atmosphere

If You ask a Dane how to begin, hygge, he will promptly reply with the atmosphere. “Weather in the house” largely depends on the lighting – it sets the right mood, relaxes, and comes to particular pastime.

So, tip # 1 – light the candles. Nothing creates such a feeling of comfort and coziness, as a trembling candle flame. Or a few candles. It may be, for example, a small “tea” candles (the ones that look like “tablet” in foil). By the way, they burn an average of 3-4 hours.

Or multi-colored “lights” of different sizes and shapes.

Of candles, by the way, it is possible to make different compositions.

Do not forget about the candlesticks. Today you can buy a candle for every taste, color, budget and any decor. But you can do yourself – it will be more “Juggernaut”.

Not less “cozy” properties have interior garland. Many burning lights instantly lift the spirits and delight the eye with flickering light. Probably, the love to the garlands from childhood – they are associated with New Year, holiday, gifts, service and family warmth. And with the Mandarin and riding on a sled. This feeling of ease and expectation of a miracle we can enliven in us today.

If You are lucky enough to have in your house with a real fireplace, then You’re lucky – more “juggernog” light and “heater” could not be found. But if there is no fireplace or You live in an apartment – not a problem. A fireplace you can arrange a decorative, what options, too many.

In modern interiors look very impressive ceramic heaters with printed image. For example, the heater Dimol Maxi 05 you can select any picture: scenery, cartoon characters or simulated fireplace. And warm and beautiful.

If we talk about lighting a classic, then it is one requirement – it should be warm, cozy and bright. Let it be cute floor lamps, wall sconces or you can make a small area with spotlights. But a strong light from the lamps in this case can all the romance “down to earth”.

Creating the perfect, huge interior is impossible without decor and all the endearing soul of the trifle. The Scandinavians are renowned for their love of natural materials (stone, wood, clay, wool), but we don’t have to go on about them. The atmosphere and the surrounding objects should be fun first and foremost so You and cards in hands. Be a little imagination and Your home will be your most comfortable place!

If the crafts You like, and You know how to sculpt, glue, whittle, paint, sew, knit or embroider (one word – be creative), it is more decorations will bring personality and create home coziness. If the time for handmade or not enough at the moment with the Muse You are in trouble, you can get such nice things in the shops.

Knit pillows, rugs and blankets, photo frames and wall panels, vases of different shapes and sizes (but nothing is sure for colors), floral arrangements, decorative appliques, coasters, and even painted pottery – all of these seemingly subtle but cute elements form in us a feeling of comfort and harmony.

By the way, is very recommended to create in your home cozy area where you can impose with cushions, climb under a blanket and a delight to read books while sipping a Cup of delicious tea. Or to observe relaxed snowflakes swirl outside the window. Or watch a movie with your partner. In General, spend time according to the philosophy of hygge. And learn more about these spiritual lessons we will discuss below.

Cozy classes or How to have fun “, huge”

The feeling of hygge has many manifestations and is associated not only with what surrounds us, but also with those around us. Simply put, with friends and family members. Of course, hygge alone is the place to be, but to live happy moments with the people much nicer. However, if You are a hard-core introvert.

Arrange evening gatherings

What could be easier and more pleasant emotional meeting with friends after a hard day? You can cook something delicious, while the time to forget about your diet and heartily enjoy fragrant homemade cakes or other, not the most dietary meal. The idea of hygge says yourself and to be pampered and Goodies is no exception. You should not forget about moderation, but also to fanaticism to count every calorie eaten is not comme Il faut. Not huge.

Do not forget about the typical autumn (and at the same time – and winter). Cocoa with marshmallows, ginger tea with lemon and mulled wine can not only warm, but also to get rid of seasonal depression and make gatherings more enjoyable.

Not worth the time of the meeting to talk about work, politics and other burning issues – just have great fun remembering the funny stories, discuss movies and books, talk about art. Huge party is no place for problems and bad mood!

Play Board games

Tell me – when was the last time You played Board games? A monopoly or at least the same Naval battle? I think it is the prerogative only of kids? Not at all! Board games are a great way to relax and have fun and sometimes a challenge. Anyway, good humor is provided to all.

Go to the movies

But not in a Hollywood blockbuster: exploding space planes and superheroes – it’s not huge. Choose something more emotional – funny Comedy, adventure or a family movie. A positive charge to You and Your friends is guaranteed.

Watching the movie can be organized and at home in front of a TV in the company and in a pleasant solitude. Don’t forget about the blanket, hot chocolate and cookies.

Walk

Not yet struck a solid cold weather, dress warmly and go for a walk in the Park. And bring a camera – surely You will have something to capture. Alternatively, you can arrange a photo session.

Who said that summer is the only time for the picnic? Treat yourself to a little autumn picnic! Spread the fire, grab a thermos of hot tea, a warm blanket (where the same without it) and some nice Goodies and snacks. Such “non-standard” attacks are usually remembered for a long time.

Small correction – our usual “camping” in the kebabs hardly be attributed to huge.

Actually, any activity that brings You joy and pleasure, a priori may be called, hygge. Reading books, cross stitching, skiing , ice skating, a trip to the coffee shop – it’s all the same to him. Choose your ways of entertainment and it will be Your personal hygge.

Hygge-fashion or What to wear to feel happy

To feel, hygge in an uncomfortable (albeit very beautiful) clothes impossible. Down with wooly sweaters and tight stuff! Huge-the style is loose-fitting natural and pleasant to the touch materials and a layered look.

What is clothing style hygge? For example, comfortable shoes and loose, ugg boots is huge, and shoes with heels – no. Grandiose coat of the chinchilla or foxes is a luxury and hygge is comfortable, not constraining movements a cashmere or wool coat. Catch the trend? The most important rule – for the feeling of hygge in clothing should keep You warm, comfortable and cozy.

One of the must-have, huge-wardrobe – sweaters and pullovers. Welcome model knit or volumetric patterns with ethnic motifs (reindeer sweater in the Norwegian style is the trend of the past several years), elongated and oversize models. As the Scandinavians are by definition the people are modest, and choose new clothes yourself is also better muted colors – gray, white, cream, peach and other pastel colors. However, the “deer” it can not be used – the classic combination of red and white (or blue) looks contrast, but mentally.

Cozy cardigans are also very relevant.

It’s time to think about the poncho.

Huge “hides” and in the details – a cute and warming accessories. Knitted scarves, baktus, snudy, shawls, hats, gloves and mittens – they’re just designed to give us warmth and a sense of security and comfort.

What, no huge cozy wool socksthat will warm you on chilly evenings?

Warm and soft sleepwear is also an important element of hygge.

For example, in South Korea and Japan is not the first fashion pair of animal pajamas, called kigurumi. Plush, warm and very nice.

In General, any suitable garment that will provide comfort and good mood. But do not forget that excessive decoration in the form of crystals, stones and other shiny things, hygge does not help. Let it be soft tissue, touching which causes the most pleasant feelings.

Summary

In the cold season we are, as ever, not enough joy and positive emotions. We miss the warm summer, Sunny days and light clothing. For sleepless nights and ripe berries, plucked straight from the Bush or tree. The starry sky and the warm sea.

Fall is the time of a few sad and depressing, so why not take note of such simple and such a soulful Danish tricks how to beat those seasonal Blues and keep your “scale of happiness”? The philosophy of hygge seems so conventional and seemingly self-evident, but how often do we resort to such simple pleasures of life?

We wish You to often pamper yourself, enjoy every (even the most gloomy) day and be happy regardless of the weather, time of year, political situation in the world or avalanches on the new York stock exchange. Cozy and “juggernog” You fall and winter!

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