What is Hygge?
Type ‘hygge’ in a search engine and the Oxford Language definition is as follows:
”A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.”
Pronounced “hoo-ga” this concept is a very integral part of Danish culture.
You may not have heard of hygge but I can say with some certainty that you have experienced it.
Slippers on, warm crackling fire, cup of tea and a good book.............mmmmmmm hygge!
Pyjamas, snuggly duvet and a movie..............mmmmmmm hygge!
Warm, bubbling, soothing hot tub. A spa day with friends..........mmmmmm hygge!
A walk in the countryside, fresh air, the sound of birds and beautiful scenery..........mmmmmm hygge!
You get the idea! The list could go on and on. Hygge is something that is very individual to each of us and typically draws on the very simple things in life. If you take a second to consider what makes you feel cosy, safe and contented. That’s probably hygge for you.
The Danes are consistently noted as being some of the happiest people in the world. Along with some of the other Nordic countries it is always at the top of the ranks. Hygge can’t be the only reason for this but I’m pretty sure that it’s important.
So why do these simple moments and interactions make us feel good? Let’s take a look at the hormonal response to hygge.
The body comprises of four happy hormones. Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin and Endorphins. Each of these hormones are unique, act slightly differently and are released in response to different stimulus. When we take time to indulge in activities that make us feel happy, relaxed, loved and secure these chemicals are released. These hormones make us feel great in the moment and when released regularly they have a profoundly positive effect on our mental health.
Do you feel you need more of these moments in your life? Do you feel that you need to dedicate more time to consider your own mental health and well-being? In a fast paced and demanding world, sometimes we just need to stop. We need to breathe, we need to be present and we need to care about ourselves.
Hygge is a feeling. It isn’t something that can be purchased, despite an array of ‘hygge’ products being available. I would imagine that perhaps some Danes are a little resentful that an element of their culture has become a bit of a fad, a buzz word, something that some companies are cashing in on. I can understand that in many respects, but I am also very glad that others are feeling inspired to strive for happiness and are beginning to take more pleasure in the simple things. We have rapidly become very materialistic, dependent on technology and sadly many of us seek our oxytocin release from social media.
Let’s start dedicating more time away from screens. Time alone, time with friends and time with loved ones.
There could be several things that provoke feelings of effortless peace, calm and soulful happiness in you.
If you want to explore what’s hygge for you here are some ideas:
Getting back to nature:
Hygge moments are not moments you have to experience alone. In fact the company of friends and loved ones often make the feeling of wellness all the more tangible. No matter where you live, getting outside and walking has a whole host of benefits. Take time to be mindful. Notice your surroundings, the sights, the sounds, the smells. A walk with friends with our phones safely stowed away can give the mind a chance to rest and recharge.
We walk a lot as a family and have been spending more time recently exploring new tracks and trails. The children love to spot bugs, birds and wild flowers. Occasionally the girls play together so well that my husband and I actually have a chance to talk! Actual grown up conversation! These conversations are often a much needed boost for my confidence and self esteem and give me a nudge to keep on plugging away at my much loved business.
Create a nest:
Home is where the heart is. The vast majority of us feel safe and secure in our homes. We can take these feelings further by creating a really comfy and cosy environment. When the girls have finally stopped depositing crumbs and spilling drinks everywhere (and potty training is done and dusted!),I will be dangerous in a soft furnishings shop. I adore cushions, blankets and soft throws. I have recently discovered weighted blankets. Some evidence shows how they can improve sleep, reduce anxiety and induce feelings of safety. We have one for our eldest daughter and she seems to love it.
Soft lighting is also really beneficial in promoting a surge of oxytocin in the body. This shy hormone doesn’t like being observed or stark bright lights. Fairy lights are awesome at creating an instant smile. Lamps allow us to switch off our overhead lighting. My favourite though..........candles. Tea lights, pillar candles and gorgeous scented candles. I love them all. My cousin in London has recently launched a business producing candles. A fellow mama of 2 little girls. I am so impressed with the quality of the products she is producing. There is consideration for the environment, the ingredients are 100% natural and vegan friendly. These are luxury soy wax candles, beautifully fragranced with scents that aren’t typical. They are certainly a treat in the evening when the girls are sleeping. www.olivineandruby.com
Take time for a hug:
So simple!
I know in recent times with COVID-19 intruding in our lives it perhaps isn’t that simple but we can find ways to get the positive effects that a cuddle provides. When we hug and kiss we experience a release of oxytocin. This boosts not only our mental well-being but also has effects on our physical health. Evidence has shown that hugging can also boost our immune system.
Yoga teaches us that it is possible to give yourself a hug. Wrapping your own arms around yourself has been shown to induce the same oxytocin release. I have mentioned weighted blankets, a lot of us have pets to cuddle and dare I say, you could hug a tree.
Yoga, mindfulness and meditation:
With 2 busy young daughters, life as a parent is noisy, full on and intense at times. I enjoy family life but I look forward immensely to practicing yoga for half an hour or so each day. I find it grounding and a focus on deep breathing not only promotes oxytocin release but seems hugely effective in clearing my busy mind. Yoga can seem a little intimidating. You may feel you are not spiritual enough, not flexible enough and that it is something not suited to you. Yoga is so varied, there really is something for everyone. I encourage you to give it a go if you haven’t tried it. If you are seeking pregnancy specific yoga, Aimee at Glow Yoga is lovely. Aimee is a Dorset mama like me. She is really in tune with positive birth and positive motherhood. https://www.glowyoga.co.uk/ I can also recommend Abi at ATO Life. Abi is a physiotherapist with a passion for both physical and mental well-being. https://www.atolife.co.uk/
Meditation and mindfulness can also seem a daunting prospect but again there is an abundance of choice out there and something to suit everyone. There are apps and plenty of really lovely Youtube videos. Again, I’d really encourage you to give it a try.
Finally.......Food!
Taking time to enjoy a meal with our family or our friends can be hygge at it’s best. Nothing more needs to be said on that!
You may have noticed that I haven’t mentioned pregnancy or birth yet. So how can hygge support you during your pregnancy? When I teach hypnobirthing I really put emphasis on encouraging couples to dedicate time to relaxation. Not just to practice hypnobirthing techniques, but to ensure they are allowing time for self care at such a life changing time. I encourage mums to indulge in the joy of being pregnant. Take time to focus on the little person growing inside them and to let go of any anxiety or stress that they may be experiencing. When you become a parent things are never quite the same again. There is far less time for hygge or hygge as you currently know it. What makes you relaxed and cosy will likely evolve and change as your family grows.
If you become a pro at relaxation this will stand you in great stead for birth. Our uterine contractions are literally fuelled by oxytocin. Knowing what works to make you relaxed will be hugely supportive in helping your labour to progress efficiently and effectively. Many will say that birth and relaxation are two things that can never go hand in hand. As a hypnobirthing teacher and a mother who looks back fondly at birth, I beg to differ. Practicing hypnobirthing will give you wonderful tool bag of oxytocin and endorphin releasing ideas. Overcome any fears, develop an understanding of the physiology of birth and with the help of a little hygge you will become excited about birth.
I currently offer hypnobirthing courses online. I work with couples privately or in groups via Zoom. My next group course begins on the 19th July. If you are a little unsure if an antenatal course with EB Fitness and Well-Being is for you, I am running a free taster session on 3rd July. Click here for more details.
Happy hygge. Xx
