As a true Dane would tell you, hygge is a word that cannot be translated.
Everyone seems to have their own understanding of what it means. Some would call it a created atmosphere, some would say it is “something that you have together”, and others would say it is something you feel.
The best and perhaps the only way to understand what hygge is, is to simply live it.
And with autumn already in full swing, here are some things you can do to come to your own definition of hygge:
1. Candlemaxxing
As the sun starts to slip away just a tad bit faster each day, this is the time where Danes really start getting crazy with their candles.
Overhead lights are a big no, and harsh white LEDs are instruments of torture. Whether it’s houses or cafes, most places are softly lit, featuring warm lighting.
The downside is, this can result in some glaring squint lines if you read too much; the upside is it would be too dark for anyone to notice.
Pro tip: Go all in and have a bonfire
2. Figure out your too-hot-to-handle drink ASAP
An absolute essential against the cold is a warm drink in your hand, preferably at all times.
Once you spend enough time here, you realise caffeine is the secret to success. This is the best season to figure out if you prefer a Danish black coffee, herbal tea, chai, matcha, pumpkin-spice latte, or a good old hot chocolate.
Mix it up: Pick one for the day and another for the night
3. Crawl into your hyggekrog
Literally translated to “cosy corner”, this is a staple you must have in your home. Preferably next to a window.
When left to your own devices, you can retreat to this personalised nook filled with everything you require to feel hygge.
This could be a big old armchair where you sit to read or watch a comfort show wrapped up in a snuggly knitted sweater and surrounded by fleece blankets.
Bonus points: Have your go-to hot drink and a candle going alongside
4. Try out a Tivoli
If you’re absolutely crushing the hygge game at home, you can challenge yourself by braving the winds.
As the saying goes, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes”. Put on your sturdiest boots and your wind-rain-cold-proof winter jacket and head on to your nearest theme park.
While they are charming throughout the year, in autumn you’ll find them covered in pumpkins and perhaps even some skeletons if you’re lucky.
Reminder: Do not underestimate the cold. Bedeck yourself in a hat, scarves, and gloves
5. Food, food, and more food
Get together with friends and family. Big dinners are an absolute survival hack in the winter.
The return on investment is truly mind-boggling; show up with one dish, try a dozen others, curse the weather together, play some games, maybe dance around a bit, and go back with some leftovers. It’s a win-win situation.
Survival hack 2: If cooking isn’t your thing, you can always be in charge of the drinks
6. Sugar, spice, and everything nice
The greatest gift this country has to offer: bakeries (free healthcare is a close second). Now is a time for all things apple: pies, cakes, sauce, pancakes – whatever suits your heart’s desire.
Once a week, you’ll find onsdagssnegl (literally: a Wednesday snail), which is basically an oversized cinnamon roll that you get for a bargain in most bakeries. Or you can have a tirsdagstrøffler on Tuesdays. It is also immensely fun to try and bake with your friends.
Thank me later: Try the no-bake æblekage; it’s a Danish secret
7. Chill out
Learn to breathe. This is your time away from all the noise and problems of the big, bad world.
Work can wait and so can texts. A crucial part of experiencing hygge lies in enjoying the small things that surround you.
Necessity: Put that phone away. Not down, away
If, after all this, the secret of hygge still eludes you, perhaps you can head to the library and get yourself a copy of The Little Book of Hygge. It’s the perfect read for your hyggekrog.
