The soft glow of Christmas lights during winter in Copenhagen is a simple expression of hygge. Learn more about the traditional Danish philosophy during Grand Baltic Sea Voyage.
Scandinavia is known for its vast forests, picturesque archipelagos, and breathtaking Norwegian fjords. The beauty at every turn has shaped this region’s unique cultural traditions, and created a people famed for kindness, happiness, and warmth. This results from an obsession with coziness and balance, which helps to bring joy, even through harsh winters. From ambient lighting to sustainable well-being, the Scandinavians could teach a masterclass in happy living.
Hygge
As Western awareness of the term rises, more people ask the question: “what is hygge?” This Danish word, pronounced “hoo-gah,” has no direct English translation, and is a new concept for the Western world. Hygge is a feeling of contentment and well-being facilitated by the enjoyment of life’s simple experiences. Encompassing both experiences and feelings brought about by them, hygge is an everyday philosophy.
Multiple sensory stimuli come together to create hygge. Visual aesthetics certainly contribute to feelings of coziness and can be considered central to achieving hygge. Soft blankets, ambient lighting provided by candles or string lights, pillows, cozy nooks, and steaming cups of tea are commonly found in these comforting atmospheres, and, paired with either quiet music or silence, make for ultimate relaxation. Many Danish people see candles as the most important part of hygge. Studies show that Danes burn more candles than any other country in the world—each year, about 13 pounds of candle wax is burned per person!
Ambience is the foundation for hygge, but just as important are the ideas of togetherness and simplicity. Hygge can be achieved alone, but it is commonly an experience enjoyed with loved ones. From watching a movie together to indulging in quiet company, quality time with others facilitates connection, one of the simplest forms of comfort. Similarly, allowing yourself to enjoy the little things in life is a key to hygge. Enjoying a walk in nature, savoring a home-cooked meal, or being mindful in small moments opens new opportunities for coziness.
Though there are common experiences in which people feel hygge, there are no strict guidelines. In the winter, it is typically found indoors, while in warmer months, comfort can be more accessible outside. Some people prefer the company of others, while others prefer the comfort found in solitude; what is hygge to one person, may not be the case for another. As long as you’re present in the peace and self-care you prefer, you’ve found your hygge!
Lagom
Just as the Danish value comfort, the Swedish value balance. The idea of balanced living is a quintessential part of Swedish culture, and can be found in the home, the workplace, and all over the country. There’s no direct translation of “lagom,” but roughly, it means “just the right amount.” Like hygge, lagom is a philosophy that subtly guides everyday life. There are no strict rules to this concept of balance, but it is a guiding force for daily decisions.
Moderation is at the heart of lagom. Not only does moderation facilitate contentment, but it enforces equality and sustainability. Daily occurrences of lagom, such as splitting the last remaining cookie with a friend, ensure that individuals meet their own needs while considering the needs of those around them. Other moments of balance, such as working hard at your job but not so hard that you burn out, promote sustainability of the self. Instead of constantly chasing something more, lagom urges people to find joy in the “just enough.”
The way Swedish people interact with nature is entwined with lagom. Just as sustainability of the self is promoted, so is sustainability of the world we live in. Being in nature invites a sense of clarity and renewal; it can be a welcome reprieve from the stress of daily life. This is why many believe that practicing lagom includes taking time to be in nature. Because of this, green spaces are just as important as buildings in Swedish cities, and thus lagom’s balance is found even in architecture!
Lagom seems to bleed into every nook and cranny of Swedish life. This conscious living is evident in the home, seen in the sense of warm minimalism many keep in mind while decorating. Lagom doesn’t necessarily require strict minimalism, rather it encourages a mindful selection of what really matters—if a piece of furniture doesn’t bring you joy or serve a purpose, why buy it? Daily rituals are similarly impacted by lagom. Taking time with loved ones, slowly enjoying your morning coffee, or even folding your laundry with extra care are all ways to promote a balanced daily routine that feels “just right” to you.
We could all use a little reprieve from our busy everyday lives, and the Scandinavians have it down. Whether you find yourself lighting candles and spending time with loved ones to practice hygge or decorating intentionally to engage with the balance of lagom, do something for your happiness … the Scandinavian way!
Embrace both hygge in Denmark and lagom in Sweden during our Grand Baltic Sea Voyage Small Ship Adventure.
