"Hygge" is a Danish concept that refers to a sense of cosiness, comfort, and contentment. It's a fundamental aspect of Danish culture and involves creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is often associated with hygge, and it's frequently seen as an antidote to the cold, dark Scandinavian winters.
The Danes have hygge (embracing ambience and wellbeing), the Dutch have gezellig (a connection to the place and the people in it), the Swedes have lagom (in perfect balance), and the Finns have kalsarikanni (getting drunk at home with your pants off – google it, it’s true!). All fabulous words and their definitions so wonderfully apt, yet we sadly don't have anything like them in our own language.
For Livskraft founder Kristie, hygge has been an important concept since she can remember! The Danish influence of Kristie’s mother gifted Kristie a warm and loving connection with cooking, friendship and self care which influence her life and business every day.
Hygge is more than just a physical sensation; it's a philosophy that encompasses a feeling of comfort, peace, and well-being. It's about finding joy in the simple things and prioritising time with friends and family (or, our favourite, framily!). It's also about creating a cosy environment, whether it's through soft lighting, warm blankets, or comfortable clothing.
Integrating the practice of hygge into a mindful approach to life in Australia can be quite enriching. Here are some ways to apply hygge principles to foster mindfulness and enhance overall well-being:
Create a Cosy Environment
Embrace the hygge principle of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. This could involve soft lighting, comfortable seating, plants and the use of warm colours and textures. Australians might enjoy adding local touches, like wool throws or artwork inspired by the natural landscape.
Enjoy the Outdoors Mindfully
While hygge is often associated with indoor comfort, it can also be about appreciating the outdoors. Australia's diverse and beautiful landscapes provide ample opportunity for mindful activities like beach walks, bushwalking, or simply enjoying a sunset.
Foster Community and Connection
Hygge emphasises spending quality time with friends and family. In Australia, this could mean regular gatherings like barbeques, beach days, or community events, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness.
Savour Simple Pleasures
Embrace the hygge ethos of finding joy in the little things. This could be enjoying a morning coffee in the sun, reading a book under a tree, or listening to the sounds of nature.
Cultivate Mindfulness in Daily Activities
Hygge encourages being present and fully engaging in the moment. In the Australian context, this could mean practising mindfulness during everyday activities, whether it's cooking, gardening, or even during work.
Seasonal Adaptation
While hygge is often associated with winter, in Australia’s varied climate, it can be adapted to different seasons. In the hotter months, hygge could involve creating a cool, shaded outdoor space with comfortable seating and greenery.
We love the Chinese Medicine approach to seasonal wellness too, which associates diet, affirmations and attitudes that best take care of certain organs throughout the changing seasons.
Balance Indoor and Outdoor Living
Australians are known for their love of outdoor living. Integrating hygge could mean creating seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring comfort and cosiness in both.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choices
Given Australia's strong awareness of environmental issues, integrating sustainability into the hygge lifestyle aligns well with both Danish and Australian values.
Love living with hygge
By adopting these aspects of hygge, Australians can enjoy a more balanced, content, and mindful way of life, enhancing their connection with themselves, others, and their environment.
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