the Art of Hygge: Living Well in Fall
I’ve always been into Nordic culture and style. It can’t be a coincidence that these countries consistently report the highest well-being and happiness around the world. About five years ago, I wanted to see it for myself, so I went to Copenhagen. Denmark reminded me a lot of Newfoundland – vibrant, brightly colored, good food, friendly people. However, there was one noticeable difference. Everyone in Denmark seemed active, happy, and healthy. Bicycles everywhere. There was a particular vibe to the people of Copenhagen and “cool” doesn’t begin to cover it. When I got back home, I began reading about their culture. A recurring theme of slow living and coziness was appearing. Hygge.
I suddenly remembered that someone gave me a book about hygge as a gift one year. I dug it out from under a pile of books on the table. Until this moment, the book was used as more of a decorative table piece than something I ever actually read. I filled a bath, cracked the book and dove in.
Turns out that most things I liked about Denmark could be summed up by that one word. Hygge. First, let’s clear up the pronunciation. I was mispronouncing it for a couple of years before realizing it is “Hyooo-guh”. Although it isn’t important that you know how to say it or even spell it. It’s something that you feel. Over the last few years, my life has changed direction slightly. The pandemic forced many of us to revaluate how we were doing things. Staying home, reading, candles, baking, sewing, good smells, cozy textures, nature, …all thing I loved, all things HYGGE, became my norm.
But what exactly is HYGGE?
Here in Canada, we use the word “hominess” or “cozy” to describe a state of warmth, while shutting off the outside world. It’s that one pair of pants that you would never wear in public but can’t wait to put on after a long day. It’s the first sip of hot coffee sitting at your window in the morning. Hygge is a Danish concept that refers to a relaxed thoughtfulness.
In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Cosying up with a loved one for a movie – that’s hygge, too. And there's nothing more hygge than sitting around with friends and family, discussing the big and small things in life. Perhaps this cozy concept explains why the Danes are some of the happiest people in the world!
The weather in Denmark, like the weather here in NL, can be described as dark, windy and damp. With this kind of weather, it comes as no surprise that many people spend a lot of time indoors. Since thick, wool socks and steaming tea by the fire embody hygge, it’s easy to assume that it’s a seasonal concept meant for winter only. The truth is that hygge can be enjoyed year-round. This got me thinking… what if intentionally created seasonal rituals based on principles of hygge and nordic culture, tied in with mindfulness and well-being to set ourselves up for success as the seasons shift? I’m not sure about the rest of you but as summer winds down I am always left with a mixed sense of excitement for Fall, with an equal amount of sadness and nostalgia that time is passing so quickly.
The Art of Hygge: Living Well in Fall is inspired from my travels through Iceland, Denmark and Finland. It’s designed to invigorate the senses, coupling evidence-based mindfulness practices with elements of Nordic culture. Let’s embrace the shift into fall and get cozy by cultivating community, warmth, and connection.
What’s included?
Candle Making Workshop with Yorabode
Scent Design Workshop with Yorabode
3 Nordic cooking classes with the Alder Cottage
Weekly mindfulness classes
Guided foraging hike + optional cold dip
