"The little book of Hygge, the Danish way to live well" by Meik Wiking.
I got this book a few years ago from my husband's colleague. I've read it immediately. It was so well written, humorous, witty, and sharp.
Now it's one of my coffee table books, and by the way, I am rereading it. Not because I didn't pay attention the first time, but because it's brilliant and totally worth it!
Who is Meik Wiking?
Meik Wiking founded the world's first Happiness Research Institute in 2011, in Copenhagen, Denmark. Basically, his job is to find out what makes people happy. He explores the causes and effects of happiness and works towards improving all people's quality of life worldwide.
His job can only be compared to Santa's. It's magical.
What is «hygge»?…
Well, this is a tricky part. Hygge is a word of Norwegian origin, which means «well-being.»
In the early 1800s, the word appeared in written Danish.
According to M.Wiking, «Hygge» is "the art of creating intimacy," "coziness of the soul," "absence of annoyance," "taking pleasure from the presence of soothing things," and author's favorite (also mine, btw) "cocoa by candlelight."
The link between coziness, well-being, homeyness, and happiness couldn't be a coincidence. Hygge is a Danish way of life; it's in their DNA.
What are the statistics?
Did you know that Denmark consistently ranks among the happiest nation in the world? And by no means, DK is a perfect utopia with no issues. Denmark, like any other country, faces many challenges every day. For me, just the thought of the weather and their high taxes give me chills.
However, the Danish approach to life is incredibly motivating and inspiring! "The more stormy is outside - the more "hygge" is inside."
"The high taxes are nothing more than an investment in society and overall well-being."
Well, that makes sense, due to the high taxes, people don't have to stress out about all uncertainties in life that give anxiety to most of us; Denmark has free education, free healthcare, retirement benefits... For these Danes, the glass is always half full. I love that, so positive, and always looking at the bright side.
Hygge plays a significant part in Danish culture, and it might be that "secret ingredient" for a happy life.
Hygge is everything you want it to be. When you feel very cozy, comfy, homey, and safe, when you are so relaxed and warm, you finally allow yourself to let your guard down. That what hygge is.
This book inspired me to make my own list.
For me, "hygge" is spending time with my husband and our doggy, hot cocoa, candles/candlelight, the heat from the fireplace, board games, the smell of roasted potatoes, Christmas, and everything that comes with it: snow, carols, market, ornaments, tree;
the cell phones are off- obligatory, woolen socks, loungewear, book or fashion magazine, /weekend, stormy weather, freshly baked pastry, treats, hot chestnuts, autumn, mulled wine, and the most important, my home and the atmosphere in it.
This book is a guide to incorporating "hygge" in your life, enjoying it, and getting happier.
If you want to be happier, just read it and try to follow easy steps. Few changes can make a huge difference.
Happy reading, everyone.
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