Why We're Obsessed With Hygge

April 19, 2023

Unsplash - CC0 License


Go on any modern home design blog or website and you’ll find references to hygge. It’s like a modern philosophy all of its own, possibly originating from the ancient Chinese art of feng shui. 


Fifty years ago, nobody (except people in Scandinavia and the Far East) had heard of the concept. We were all decorating our homes with outrageous wallpaper and putting down strange carpets. 


Now though, the situation is different. Everyone wants to explore hygge, even if it means using a carpet cleaning service to maintain plushness. 


But why are we so obsessed with hygge? What makes it so appealing and satisfying? And how can we incorporate more hygge into our lives?


Good questions. 


One reason for our collective fascination with hygge is that it offers a counterbalance to the stress and chaos of modern life. When you go into a cozy room, it feels like the complete opposite of our harsh, competitive society. Everyone spends most of their time working against other people, trying to get more from the economic system. But hygge reminds you that there’s something comfortable in the world (and it’s in your own home). 


It can also help psychologically. The world is constantly bombarding us with information, expectations, and distractions. This, in turn, can make us feel overwhelmed, anxious, and disconnected from ourselves and others. 


Hygge is a way of slowing down, stopping, and appreciating the things we have. It forces us to focus on the quality of our experiences rather than the quantity. 


It’s also a big driver of gratitude. Hygge reminds people that there’s still some comfort to be had, even if the rest of life is harsh and unrelenting. 


But it’s not all about that. Another possible reason for our obsession with hygge is that it taps into our innate need for belonging and connection. Humans are social animals who thrive on meaningful relationships and interactions. The entire hygge movement thrives on its ability to create warm, communal atmospheres. These tap into our fundamental nature as human beings. It prompts a sense of harmony and balance by respecting individual preferences. When you walk into a hygge room, you feel like it’s looking after you. You can also be yourself. 


How To Bring More Hygge Into Your Life

Bringing more hygge into your life is actually easier than you might think. It just requires following some tried and tested methods. 


Here’s what to do: 


  1. Make your home more hygge-friendly by adding soft lighting, candles, plants, cushions, rugs, blankets, and other cozy elements.

  2. Put down carpets in your living rooms. 

  3. Practice mindfulness and gratitude by paying attention to the small details that make you happy and expressing your appreciation for them.

  4. Treat yourself to something that makes you feel good, like a massage, a bath, a chocolate cake, or a new outfit.

  5. Spend time in nature and appreciate its beauty and tranquility.

  6. Be kind and generous to yourself and others by offering compliments, support, help, or gifts.


All of this should help. 


*contributed post*


Post a Comment