Hygge and Hearth

A Very Hygge Day

Why is today Hygge?

That is a good question and one that will be answered in this blog post, but first and foremost, what is hygge?

What is Hygge?

Hygge is a concept that is mainly associated with Scandinavian countries, especially Denmark, that has been gathering interest across the globe. Hygge has no literal translation to English, though most interpret it to mean ‘cosy’. Many people will be aware of the underpinnings of hygge, such as candlelight, open fires, storms raging outside whilst being protected in a warm home, friends, family etc. Hygge can also be a home decor style, think Scandinavian minimalism, light airy spaces, light furniture interspersed with contrasting textures, a calm space. A third interpretation of hygge can be seen to be more philosophical or a lifestyle. Taking time to notice and appreciate the small things in life, the quiet reflections and living in the moment. It is this third description of hygge which forms this blog post.

So go on…

So a while ago, a tweet became popular, posted by @michaelglasper and then featured by thepoke.co.uk. The subject of this was Michael Palin’s Diaries, specifically a diary entry written on a Sunday, November 13th. Whilst Michael Palin was actively writing about hygge is doubtful, but what he does do is capture the essence of hygge. A quiet wellbeing, when all is well, for those fleeting second or minutes, a reflection and an acknowledgement that while this feeling cannot cure everything – personal dramas, catastrophes, even tragedies, by living in this specific moment, everything on a personal level seems that little bit better. Michael Glasper (@michaelglasper) described it as the ‘finest diary entry ever written’ and he may be right.

Michael Palin’s Diary

Sunday November 13th

 ‘Today, helped no doubt by the hard, bright freshness of a cool, sunny November morning, I have a feeling of completeness. The world makes sense this Sunday morning. Even the weather seems to be resting, peaceful and mellowed after the angry squalls of the last two days.

There’s a smell of beef and Yorkshire pudding and from where I write I can see the chimney letting out wisps of smoke from the fire in the sitting room.

Yesterday I read through the novel so far and was greatly heartened. I saw much that worked and I also saw clearly what didn’t work. I can see the way head and I can’t wait to get going again tomorrow. 

I just feel very happy and very content at this moment. Nothing is expected of me today except to be here at home. I am perfectly well aware that around the borders of my life are problems, difficulties, painful decisions, even human tragedies demanding my involvement. I know I cannot live in a continual vacuum of happiness – but a day like today restores energies, tops up batteries, rebuilds whatever faith one has.

Today there is nothing more I want then what I have.’

Dr Erica @Hygge and Hearth

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