#Hygge
The Danish word that’s taken the world by storm and once again helped us understand why Denmark is known as the happiest country in the world. Pronounced hue-gah and roughly translated into English as feelings of warmth and coziness. It’s about enjoying life’s simple pleasures like sipping coffee in bed, reading by a fire, or baking homemade cinnamon buns. About indulging in the simple things, intentionally celebrating routine, and seeing beauty in the items you already own.
Wait, what? Being okay with what you have? Contentment? Recycling? Repurposing? Not something I’m especially good at.
It seems like last winter #hygge was trending all over Europe but I must admit that I missed the boat over in the PWN. Not to worry, who says this trend is going anywhere? If you ask me the US can take a lesson from their friends in the north and exercise some serious hygge throughout the holiday season.
One of the things I love most about this word is that it sits outside of things- it’s an emotion- a feeling of peace and rest. So instead of browsing the web for that new wool sweater to help you embrace the colder months why don’t you head back to your closet and see what items can be put to new use or reworn in an effort to live more simply.
I’ve been eyeing more than one pair of wool socks here in London but am going to trade in my key strokes for some crochet needs and try my hand at an actual pattern. We also picked up a few cheap candles that I plan to eat more dinners with, as well as do some evening reading next to. Once the holiday season ramps up it’s all too easy to think we need to spend loads of money to enjoy it when in reality it’s the opposite. Drinking mulled wine by the fire might be just the trick to unplugging this holiday season and actually connecting with those you love most.
What are your thoughts on hygge? Is it old news? If so, are there any rituals you’ve adopted that you want to share? I’d love to know how you plan to slow down, live simply, and with more intention in these upcoming crazy months. Leave a comment below or tag yourself practicing hygge with #rootandroam to join the conversation.
