What Is Hygge? 

Hygge is a Danish word (it’s tough to pronounce) that describes the feeling of peaceful quiet contentment. It’s an integral part of Danish culture that other parts of the world have embraced, particularly during the long dark evenings of winter.

No matter where you are in the world – bundled up by the fire while the snow comes down or donning a sweater or light jacket in a place with milder weather - understanding hygge can help make your home more comfortable—and winters more enjoyable—by taking a page out of the Danish hygge lifestyle.

What Does Hygge Mean? 

There’s no perfect translation into English, but the Danish definition is “to give courage, comfort, or joy.” That meaning has slowly shifted to represent a feeling of coziness and warmth; two sensations that are especially important in the winter.

Hygge is anything that elicits feelings of peace, calm, and contentment. The Danes use the word as a noun, verb, and adjective, ascribing hygge to places, actions, and enjoyable situations. Your grandmother’s living room, with low lights and a roaring fire in the hearth; that’s hygge. Reading by candlelight while a winter storm rages outside; that’s hygge. It could also mean curling up with a good book and a comfy chair as the sun sets over the water. Or enjoying a cup of tea while watching Netflix with the family.

Here are a few more examples that might help define the feeling:

  • Playing board games with friends
  • Watching a movie with your family
  • Drinking hot cocoa after a fun day sledding or skiing

How to Get Cozy (or, How to Hygge) 

First, let’s keep in mind what hygge is not: for example, scrolling your cell phone or crossing something off a to-do list.

Rather, hygge is about enjoying simple, comforting pleasures.

Light a candle. Pumpkin spice, gingerbread cookie, or maybe good ol’ fashioned cinnamon-scented candles elicit strong emotions that can help you switch gears from on-the-go to moving slow.

Flick off your lamps and read by candlelight whenever the mood suits you. Don’t forget about indoor air quality, though. Keep your home ventilated by using a hood fan to remove any lingering smoke when you’re done!

Cook something memorable. Enjoy a homemade potpie, fresh bread, or a meal that means something to you personally. Preparing and enjoying your favorite recipes is hygge if you take the time to enjoy the process.

Take cozy to the next level with a blanket, a heavy throw or a lightweight wrap depending on the temperature. Having a blanket that’s always handy in the cooler months makes curling up with a good book and a mug of hot cocoa even more enjoyable. (It can also help you save money on your heating bill by letting you keep the thermostat a few degrees cooler.)

Related Content: What Is More Expensive, Heating or Cooling?

Make Winter Cozy and Stress-free 

You focus on being comfortable and we’ll make it happen. Trust One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning to prepare your home heating system for whatever your winter looks like! Our experienced, friendly, and punctual Comfort Specialists take the stress out of HVAC maintenance and repair. Request an appointment online or call (800) 893-3523 today.