This Magic Monday, we cozy up with the word “Hygge.” We look at how the feeling of comfort and wellness contributes to creativity.
As leaves continue to fall and temperatures begin to drop, we are reminded that, no matter what’s happening in our world, time and seasons continue. While many things are different this year, we can still take comfort and contentment in things that make us feel cozy — sitting with a warm cup of cocoa by the fireplace or wrapped in a warm blanket, spending time with our close loved ones, enjoying the brilliant colors of the season, or taking time to read a chapter from a favorite classic or a new page-turner.
In Danish and Norwegian, there’s a word for this feeling of taking comfort and contentment and adopting a mood of coziness and wellness. It’s known as hygge (pronounced “HUE-geh”), and for many Danish, it applies beyond comfort items like blankets, candles, warm beverages and books. It’s considered by many as a way of life, more focused on an atmosphere or experience of creating a comforting social and emotional environment.
This article from Everyday Health goes into further detail surrounding the origin and benefits of hygge. It includes insight about how, when we’re in a more positive or relaxed mood, we get better at problem-solving and tend to think more creatively. It’s a fascinating read!
Hygge is an apropos reminder, especially this year, to promote feelings of contentment and ease of mind. This month, as you enter your time of Thanksgiving, be encouraged to create moments of comfort, coziness and well-being – of hygge. Consider how you might create those moments for others, whether it’s recommending a favorite book, sharing a piece of music you found moving or meaningful, offering an electronic gift card to a local coffee shop or other such gestures. It might be just what someone needs right now.