Book Review: “Hygge: Discovering the Danish Art of Happiness” by Olivia Telford

Long ago, I read somewhere that Denmark was considered one of the happiest countries on the globe, but I took that as merely good marketing. However, the Danish do have a lifestyle whereby they can make this very claim.

I became curious about hygge after hearing about it from a blogger-friend, so I borrowed Hygge: Discovering The Danish Art of Happiness by Olivia Telford from Prime Reading.

According to the author, hygge is a word that derives itself from a Norwegian word meaning well-being Accurately pronounced “hoo-gah,” hygge “embraces the idea of positivity and enjoyment that comes from everyday experiences.” (author) Hygge is cultivating a certain mindset that closely pays attention to one’s mind and surroundings.

While hygge has started to become popular in the Western part of the world, Telford focuses on the fundamentals of hygge in how the Danes experience it.

How is hygge a lifestyle in Denmark? There are many factors why hygge is popular and a way of life that Danes strive for every day. Considering that Denmark is known for its long, cold, and dark winters, hygge helps maintain a positive mindset when Danes must often be inside. They focus on the enjoyment of the simple things of life, those little moments of comfort that help “brighten up even the darkest of days, making hygge an indispensable tool to facilitate overall well-being.” 

What is different about the Danish culture is that they don’t accept that anxiety, worry, or stress are just a part of everyday life. They engage in purposeful activities to habitually eliminate it. Implementing hygge creates experiences that are felt and enjoyed, filling a present need for emotional and mental well-being.

Having a hygge lifestyle is “indulging in something that truly allows you to settle down, quit rushing around your day stressed and anxious, and enjoy what life offers you in a more comfortable moments.” Examples of hygge could be sharing a glass of wine with a friend after work, having tea, and snuggling in a cozy throw while reading a good book, or having friends over for a night of pasta and board games.

Hygge can mean different things to different people and be tailored to suit personal preferences. It can describe a scenario, emotion, and a way of life that centers around the idea of “being cozy.” Another description from the author is that hygge to a Westerner is like practicing and having Zen moments.

One rule that is synonymous with hygge is unplugging. Whether you prefer to relax alone and watch a movie, or going to the lake with your family, hygge is about experiences and cultivating memories. The goal is to create “an intentional, intimate surrounding that induces specific chemical reactions within the brain that promote stress relief, contentment, and relaxation.”

There is so much about a hygge lifestyle that is fascinating. The author describes many benefits of hygge that I can try in my own life. For instance: Sleep. I need to grant myself the amount of sleep that my body needs. I can create a different, relaxing bedtime routine, going to sleep a little earlier than usual. The peace I will get when waking up after nine hours versus seven will set the tone for a less stressful day.

Telford does a respectable job explaining the fundamentals of hygge, benefits, and the incorporation of a hygge lifestyle as a Westerner. The author covers other topics: how hygge can differ with the seasons, as a new perspective, as a creative outlet, and how you can incorporate hygge in all areas of life.

This book is not long, easily a weekend read, and it covers a great deal of helpful information for a healthier, hygge lifestyle.

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