You know that feeling you get when you’re cuddled up on the couch with a good book, sipping a warm cup of coffee or tea? You’re cozy and content—that’s hygge. What about that feeling you get when you put on your favorite pair of sweatpants or when you light your favorite candle? Yep, that’s hygge, too.
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a Danish noun (and sometimes adjective) used to describe a feeling. Hygge is so important in Denmark that it’s considered a defining part of being Danish—it’s part of their cultural DNA. But what exactly is hygge and how can you get it? We’re sharing our favorite tips and tricks so you can live your most hygge life.
What is hygge?
Hygge is a feeling of cozy, intimate contentment; of connection and warmth. Hygge is creating a feeling of well-being and celebrating the everyday—it's the art of building a sanctuary. Anything that brings you these feelings is hygge.
Hygge originated in Denmark in the early 1800s and quickly became a Danish way of life. As it spread across Europe and over to America, more and more people wanted to add a little hygge to their lives. Hygge is so much a part of Danish culture, they even have words to describe certain cozy things as being hygge-like. For example, you know, that pair of pants you’d never wear in public but are so comfy that you won't get rid of them? The Danish call them hyggebukser (bukser: pants) because they bring you hygge.
Get Hygge
While hygge can be felt year round, cold weather especially makes us crave it. There’s nothing like cozying up in bed or by the fireplace with a fuzzy, soft blanket, watching a storm or the snow fall outside. Try some of these tips and tricks to hygge-up your life.
Heat
When you light candles or turn on the fireplace, you instantly bring hygge to the room. Big or small, a flickering fire makes a space feel intimate. Warm candle scents like cinnamon, vanilla and Birchwood are great choices to turn up the hygge (and the heat).
Nature
Bring the outdoors into your space. House plants are a great way to introduce hygge—they help create a relaxing atmosphere. Some even have other benefits like air purification. If you don’t have the greenest thumb, try a succulent or fake greenery (just be sure to dust it every now and then). You can also incorporate other outdoor elements into your space, including leather, wood and natural stones.
Dim and Natural Light
Overhead lights are often harsh and bright. Get hygge lighting in your space by using table lamps instead. This will help you create a cozy, homey feeling.
Soft Textures
When it comes to hygge, the right textures make a big difference. After all, when you think of coziness and cuddling, a scratchy blanket probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Surround yourself with soft, fuzzy blankets, fluffy throw pillows and comfortable furniture. A couch that looks good but isn’t comfortable, isn’t practical—everything in the room should have a purpose. The same goes for your lounge clothes and pajamas. For the ultimate hygge experience, keep everything soft and cozy.
Find Your Hygge
Everyone is different, so what brings you hygge may be unique. Something that brings your best friend or partner hygge may not necessarily make you happy, too. If cozying up by the fire with your favorite book brings you hygge, great. If a relaxing bubble bath brings you hygge, awesome. Maybe you get your hygge from sipping hot tea and listening to your favorite music. Whatever it is, find it and enjoy.
The right mattress will help you hygge-up your bedroom. A squeaky, lumpy mattress is the opposite of hygge (and definitely won’t give you your best rest, either). You want a cozy bed that you can’t wait to crawl into at the end of the day. Meet Leesa. We have everything you need to create a hygge bedroom, from bottom to top: mattress bases, mattresses, pillows, a blanket and sheets. Bring hygge to your bedroom and start getting better rest.