Houghton & Mackay, 27 October 2024
The clocks are going back, the nights are drawing in, and the temperature is dropping. Autumn has officially arrived, and with it, has brought the temptation to curl up by a roaring fire with a hot drink and a good book. The feeling of warmth, and well-being that cold, autumn nights evoque is best encapsulated in the Danish and Norwegian word hygge, which translates as a convivial atmosphere created by cosiness, comfort, and the appreciation of everyday moments.
In Scandinavian countries where winters are long and dark, and daylight can be scarce for months on end, hygge has become a cultural cornerstone. The appeal of home as a snug haven of comfort has since caught on around the world, and the concept of hygge as a lifestyle trend has been growing in the UK since the mid 2010s.
Its popularity is perhaps a reaction to a fast-paced world that is becoming increasingly more chaotic, and there are now books, blogs, and cafés dedicated to the concept. The best hygge, however, is the kind you create yourself with your loved ones, in true Nordic style, and transforms the winter months into a time of warmth, comfort, and indulgence. This is the heart of hygge. Continue Reading >>
