I was recently asked “What is hygge?” the Danish and Scandinavian lifestyle ethos that is gaining attention worldwide.

The word hygge is derived from the Old English hycgan or “to hug”, which gives a hint as to what hygge is all about. Hygge is about creating a cosy and safe environment, with a sense of security. Although it is practised throughout the year, hygge is especially present in autumn and winter.

Roughly 75% of Danes have an open fire or a hotbox at home, which I guess is similar to here in Trentham. Everyone appreciates the comfort of a flickering fire. In addition to the warm visual, we have the smells and sounds. While it is cosy to sit around an open fire, hygge has further contributing factors.

It’s about cocooning yourself and your family from the cold, wind and rain outside. Pull out your winter woollen and faux fur throws, and your plump textured cushions.

It’s hygge when you stand in the window protected from the elements, looking out at the snowfall, feeling safe and warm. Hygge is a relaxed thoughtfulness: enjoying the simple pleasures in life, without extravagance.

It’s hygge to sit around your table with family and friends, with a couple of candles burning to add to the ambience, eating and drinking. Conversation is light and joyful: nothing controversial, nothing confronting.

The Swedes have a similar concept called lagom, which can refer to any aspect of your life. It means “nothing too much, or too little, but just right”. You had a lagom sleep. You have a lagom job.

The fika is entrenched in Sweden. Daily you gather with friends, family or work colleagues, and sit down to share pastries or cake and to drink freshly-brewed coffee. It’s a social event, not a work meeting. In addition to plentiful coffee, a lagom quantity of sweet treats is served: biscuits, cinnamon rolls or spicy baked goods.

Try to slow down and enjoy some “hygge time”: be cosy, and look forward to gathering with family and friends to enjoy your fika time together.

Published in the July 2021 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet