Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is characteristic of Danish culture, described as ‘a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being’. In essence, it is about being and soaking in the moments of life – whether at work, home, play, anywhere or with anyone.
The Art Of Contentment
Hygge is akin to the practice of mindfulness and an attitude of gratefulness. It is the feeling of appreciating the little things in life and feeling thankful for our life and the moment that we are living in. And because we feel grateful in this conscious act of appreciation, we are able to relax and be be at ease with ourself and others.
Manifestation Of Hygge: 3 Simple Tips
So how can we manifest this feeling of ‘comfortable conviviality’ in our everyday life and surroundings? It starts with being mindful. This is not an easy or quick step to master, but the more we do it (wherever, whenever and however), the easier and more active hygge develops in our lives. We can practice this in the shower, while driving, or at home while doing our work.
1. Take a moment to breathe
- We would know that our bodies and mind move in such a way that we can feel the tension – Don’t fight it.
- Yes you heard right…Feel the tension, don’t fight it, and slowly release it with every breath.
2. Leave an open mind
- Free ourself to be thankful and joyful
- More importantly, allow ourselves to be not ok if we need to, it is not all rosy all the time either.
3. Anchor yourself in the moment
- Start to think of experiences and relationships we can be grateful for and appreciate them – enjoy the little things/moments/events/people, no matter how simple.
- Engage the beauty of our surroundings and moment with our senses – sight, touch, smell, taste, listen, feel.
As we practice this active act of serenity, we acknowledge that stress is never-ending. It’s something that’s omni present, but when we allow ourself to ‘hygge out’, there is this moment of clarity and comfort. We would be able to see the good and positives while acknowledging the bad and negatives. We are increasingly able to feel that we are a part of the positive happenings and enjoy being comfortably present in life’s moments.