Hygge was the word of the day last Monday. It is a Danish word that came about in the 1960s, and it makes me smile. Have you ever used this word, or have you heard somebody else use it?
Merriem-Webster’s definition of hygge is, “a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable
During the long, dark winters when Danes retreat inside their homes, hygge is what brings them a great sense of comfort and joy.—Mary Holland”
According to Worddaily.com, “Elements of hygge include sweaters, couches piled with blankets, candlelight, a warm pastry — basically anything involved with a cozy winter day. This holiday season, light a fire, grab a cup of cocoa, and settle in for a night of hygge. Hygge started out as a Scandinavian way of life, embracing comfort and small pleasures. The word “hygge” then entered English through Danish.”
It’s springtime, and I bet most of us are not thinking about snuggling in blankets on a comfy couch in front of a roaring fire. But there are ways to create hygge in our lives this season.
For starters, I’d like to suggest flowers. Cut flowers from your garden and make big or small arrangements. If you don’t have a garden, buy a small bouquet.
Go for a walk and observe your surroundings. I don’t live in a big city, and it’s easy to connect with nature. That gives me a feeling of coziness.
What about puppies? Do they fit the definition of hygge?
As a cozy mystery author, I’ve got to mention books. What about the term hygge mystery?
Hygge mystery probably won’t catch on, but it’s fun to think about. I hope you all have a warm and hygge spring day, and I hope you find time to read a fun hygge mystery.
Jackie Layton 