Hygge and Danish Culture

Over the years, Denmark has been ranked as one of the, if not the happiest, countries on earth. This is not only due to a political and economic support of its citizens or its strong identity in family or humble living, but is largely due to the Danish concept of Hygge.

Hygge doesn't have a direct English translation (go figure), but is often described as a feeling of cosiness, intimacy, or finding pleasure in simplicity. Danes use hygge in not just an incidental sense, but incorporate it into their daily lives in a variety of ways like lighting candles (a pretty important aspect of Danish culture), buying flowers, or even eating chocolate. Essentially, any little thing that brings you a feeling of warm happiness is bringing hygge. Hygge is also considered an important method of making through Danish winters.

I think concepts like hygge are really important in understanding Danish life, especially because it is something that doesn't have a direct translation into our culture. Other countries similarly have these untranslatable words that stand as a cornerstone in their identity. In the Netherlands, for instance, the word "gezelligheid" is used to describe a distinct sense of belonging or something that's inspirited. In German, "gemütlichkeit," describes a similar feeling, but I've more often heard it used with an emphasis of mindfulness and peace.