Practicing Hygge: What We Can Learn from the Danish Culture on Mental Health

Do you enjoy making your environment around you cozy? You might already be practicing hygge more than you think. hygge is a concept originated in Danish culture that focuses on living with a sense of comfort, coziness, and peace. It has often been described as creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things that life has to offer with positive energy surrounding you. What is so intriguing about practicing hygge, pronounced either “hue-guh” or “hoo-gah,  is that there are actual health benefits to living a hygge-focused lifestyle. Happiness researchers continually find Denmark to have some of the happiest people on Earth, which Danes attribute it to the practice of hygge. Feeling increased happiness could certainly be a perk of practicing hygge, but there may be other emotional, physical and relationship benefits as well. Emotional Benefits Hygge decor is intended to promote a sense of calm and peace in the living space. Since we make sense of our experiences and environment through the use of sight, sound, touch, taste and smell, it may come as no surprise that creating a cozy living space would help us feel less anxious and promote a sense of emotional well-being and safety. These feelings of comfort and safety can better allow us, and those sharing the space with us, to let down our guards and be more present and open to connecting with one another. Examples of possible emotional benefits may include: Less depression and anxiety Increased feeling...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Habits Self-Help coziness hygge stress reduction Source Type: blogs