Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.66 AVERAGE
3.66 AVERAGE
This was a perfect listen in January, as we have months of cold and dark ahead. How do I not waste my time in dissatisfaction but instead savor the day before me?
Danes are often described as the happiest people, and Meik Wiking wants to explore why that might be so, and how others can achieve equal footing. Wiking attempts to define features of the Danish idea of hygge, but it is complex. It's relaxed thoughtfulness. Equality. Comfort. Clothing that is comfortable and stylish (and, as a knitter, I was tickled to hear of their love of giant scarves -- YES!). Lighting (the annual candle consumption for Danes is astonishing). A healthy balance between work and home.
A provided hygge manifesto elaborates on the key features. It is a well suited lifestyle for introverts, as hygge is most often found in smaller groups, but that can be a detraction, as well for some -- as an outsider, it can be lonely and hard to break in, as it's not conducive to expansion.
There is humor throughout the slim book; in the chapter discussing how one might decorate a home to achieve this principle, we read, "Basically you want to think, 'How would a Viking squirrel furnish a living room?'"
I was drawn to this mentality, as it helps me define my current values. How do I create an environment, a schedule, a lifestyle that isn't rushed but prioritizes experiences and mental well being?
My oldest caught a couple minutes of the audiobook in the chapter discussing the important of light. She's all about acquiring and lighting candles at the moment, and I've gotten some traction from her regarding tidiness ("This cluttered coffee table isn't hygge - can you clean it?"). It's also given her ammunition of sorts: "Mom, we need a new lamp in the playroom. It's too glaring and NOT hygge! It hurts my spirit."
As an aside, while listening to this I spotted our cat on our new chair, squirreled between a pillow and my plush blanket, blissed out and napping, and I realized she just exudes hygge. Perhaps one way to understand the essence of hygge (only partly tongue in cheek) -- how would my cat feel about this?
Danes are often described as the happiest people, and Meik Wiking wants to explore why that might be so, and how others can achieve equal footing. Wiking attempts to define features of the Danish idea of hygge, but it is complex. It's relaxed thoughtfulness. Equality. Comfort. Clothing that is comfortable and stylish (and, as a knitter, I was tickled to hear of their love of giant scarves -- YES!). Lighting (the annual candle consumption for Danes is astonishing). A healthy balance between work and home.
A provided hygge manifesto elaborates on the key features. It is a well suited lifestyle for introverts, as hygge is most often found in smaller groups, but that can be a detraction, as well for some -- as an outsider, it can be lonely and hard to break in, as it's not conducive to expansion.
There is humor throughout the slim book; in the chapter discussing how one might decorate a home to achieve this principle, we read, "Basically you want to think, 'How would a Viking squirrel furnish a living room?'"
I was drawn to this mentality, as it helps me define my current values. How do I create an environment, a schedule, a lifestyle that isn't rushed but prioritizes experiences and mental well being?
My oldest caught a couple minutes of the audiobook in the chapter discussing the important of light. She's all about acquiring and lighting candles at the moment, and I've gotten some traction from her regarding tidiness ("This cluttered coffee table isn't hygge - can you clean it?"). It's also given her ammunition of sorts: "Mom, we need a new lamp in the playroom. It's too glaring and NOT hygge! It hurts my spirit."
As an aside, while listening to this I spotted our cat on our new chair, squirreled between a pillow and my plush blanket, blissed out and napping, and I realized she just exudes hygge. Perhaps one way to understand the essence of hygge (only partly tongue in cheek) -- how would my cat feel about this?
As someone of Danish heritage there is a lot of lovely truths in this little book- which is quite fun and easy to read. Is it oversimplified? Yes , probably. But there are words of wisdom about simplicity and gratitude and the value of relationships, that are worth the reminder. Light and fun- if you like danish culture or the idea of hygge you will probably enjoy the book!
I had been avoiding the hype around hygge for a long time, but something (a few things?) about 2020 made me want to get into a hygge mood. This was a nice intro to Danish culture and a source of inspiration as well. Short and sweet. I'm looking forward to making vegan versions of a few of the recipes!
Also, please read this and thank me later:
“I Tried To Spice Up My Sex Life With Hygge and Fell Asleep” by OkCupid https://link.medium.com/20XLzUK8gbb
Also, please read this and thank me later:
“I Tried To Spice Up My Sex Life With Hygge and Fell Asleep” by OkCupid https://link.medium.com/20XLzUK8gbb
So wonderful and comforting, I think I'll have to get a copy for myself to look at from time to time!
Quaint book explaining the reasons why Denmark is the happiest country. He explains the importance of gratitude, social company, and a calming environment.
Since moving abroad, I'd heard of this word but didn't really understand what it meant. I came across it while looking for books on Danish and Scandi interior design, and even though that's only a very small portion of this book, it was well worth the read. The insights it contains about the keys to Danish ideals of emotional well-being and happiness are so starkly contrasted with the life I've known in America and to some degree, even here in the U.K. After reading this I feel inspired once more to pick up a craft, to indulge in quiet moments, to appreciate simplicity and to further let go of the "rat race" mentality that was so exhausting. It's a beautiful book, full of many ideas and ways to incorporate hygge into your life - in fact, even taking the time to read this book was in and of itself hyggeligt. I think I've got go to get myself some coffee and cake now...
First of all, the Danes sound like the most chill group of people ever and I wish I could spend some hygge time over in Denmark. Right now, I can't think of anything more hyggeligt than having universal healthcare and free higher education, which the Danes (happiest country on the globe) have. All that other stuff is just the icing on the cake. Speaking of which, one popular Danish pastime, which is having a small group of pals to cook new recipes together and enjoy some casual hang time with each week sounds way more fun and hyggeligt than going to a packed bar or concert. Sign me up!
hopeful
inspiring
relaxing
fast-paced
Hygge is a great concept. There is the obvious caveat that if you’re poor, in a war torn area or suffering from chronic abuse or trauma, this is not for you. Hygge is for middle class and above. People ( preferably living in a welfare state) who are generally living comfortably;not existing or fighting to survive.
If you fall in to the right category, hygge is a great way to improve your life. If you have a delusional brain like mine which reacts with a flight-or-fight response to the most mundane of tasks, this book provides a delightful counter-delusion. Life is beautiful if you just slow down and take it in. Focusing on small everyday pleasures, building up close relationships with friends and family is a great way to live.
It takes the best of hedonism and combines it with sensible minimalism.
Humility is essential so as not to fall into the trap of selfish narcissism.
In short, hygge is a great way to keep the privileged happy and content and not disrupt the world in trying to find non-existent purpose nor have delusions of grandeur.
I’m off to curl up with a good cup of tea and a book! Happy hygge-ing!
I’m off to curl up with a good cup of tea and a book! Happy hygge-ing!
informative
inspiring
relaxing
fast-paced
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced