Has anyone read The Little Book of Hygge? Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a Danish way of life, and is described in the book as “a sense of comfort, togetherness, and well-being.” It can be an atmosphere, a feeling, or an experience. The Danes are famously the happiest people in the world, and the author of the book, Meik Wiking, is the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen. He believes that a hygge environment and hygge activities make people feel calm, peaceful, and happy. I love how he gives tangible items and specific experiences that can help create a hygge home. Here are some hygge items and concepts:
- Candles and soft lighting
- Fires in the fireplace
- Togetherness/the gathering of family and friends
- Pleasurable sweets like cookies, cakes, and candy
- Gratitude and harmony
- Hot drinks and soups on the stove
- Sweaters, woolen socks, and comfy clothing
- Books
- Nature
- Blankets and cushions
Sounds lovely, doesn’t it?
My family has been all about hygge lately. It was the theme of our Christmas, and my mom gave us hygge-themed gifts. She even had a hygge party with her book club and has another one scheduled with my parents’ wine group as well! It kind of makes me want to have one too…
As I read about hygge, it got me thinking how hygge parenting might have a positive effect on a child. A hygge parent would be happy and relaxed. They would be present in the moments with their child, not distracted or on their phone. They would read to their child, and would cultivate a calm, quiet, casual atmosphere in their home. They would explore nature with their child. They would let their child indulge on sweets, but in moderation of course. They would play games and do crafts with their child. They would host gatherings for friends for friends and family. They would ride bikes and go on walks with their child. They would cook, play, and rest together as a family.
It’s a lot easier said than done, of course, but it sounds very much like a parent I would want to be someday. We can have goals, right? What are your thoughts on hygge parenting? Do you have any ideas or activities that you find to be very hygge in your own family?
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