The concept of Hygge, the Danish way of living that gives comfort, coziness, relationships and leisure the spotlight, is something that we, in Write.Your headquarters love to take inspiration from. Our staff member Gal, for instance, sees lighting candles before she sits quietly to read a book as a way of helping herself get in this “absorbing creative mood”. Meaning, she thinks about becoming at ease before she reads and gets inspired.
In our offices, which are located in this beautiful hub, next to an outdoor cafe and a lovely quiet garden, we have the book sitting on the shelf and it’s being taken out and read by our visitors and staff.
In recent years, the concept of hygge has gained popularity beyond Denmark’s borders, captivating people around the world with its emphasis on coziness, contentment, and connection. Meik Wiking’s *The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living* offers profound insights into this unique cultural phenomenon, revealing how hygge is not just a fleeting trend but a way of life that fosters well-being and creativity.
Understanding Hygge
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) embodies a feeling of comfort and coziness, often associated with warm spaces, shared moments, quiet and profound talks and relationships and simple pleasures, such as lighting a scented candle before you read a new book.
Wiking describes it as an atmosphere that invites mindfulness and joy, encouraging us to appreciate the little things in life—whether it’s curling up with a good book, sharing a meal with friends, going for a walk in the woods with good music in our ears or enjoying the warmth of candlelight on a chilly evening. It’s about creating a sanctuary where we can feel safe and connected, to ourselves and others.
The Elements of Hygge
According to Wiking, several elements contribute to the experience of hygge. We feel they are a part of not just this experience but they can support creative living, which is one of our main values in Write.Your.
Comfort around the house
Soft textiles, warm lighting, and inviting spaces create an environment where people feel at ease. It’s not just in our bedrooms or living rooms, but also wherever we feel comfortable to be us.
In our office/studio we have different corners with books, flowers, sofas and workstations. Our outdoor space is a garden with herbs and we always have our acoustic playlist play quietly when we sit and work.
Connection with others who makes us feel safe
Sharing moments with loved ones fosters a sense of belonging and enhances emotional well-being. This is one of the most important values of Hygge. Being connected to people that are all about “good vibes”, good conversations, interesting and with different points of view and perspectives.
Talking to people that are open-minded and easygoing makes us feel “at ease”. One can feel really amazing, especially when you’re someone whose ideas are unique and non-conventional.
Mindfulness – just being in the moment
Engaging fully in the present moment, whether through savoring food or enjoying nature, cultivates gratitude and happiness.
Wow, this is our life calling, but we don’t teach mindfulness, we want to show how writing can be a tool to be in the moment and make it more meaningful and clear.
Simplicity – it’s in the little things
Finding joy in simplicity encourages us to focus on what truly matters, reducing stress and distractions. This is why we write content about simple things like sitting in a cafe and writing in our simple journals, enjoying a poetry book or just talking to a new person you have never met before about all the things you love.
Hygge and Creativity go hand by hand
One of the most fascinating aspects of hygge is its profound connection to creativity. When we create a hygge environment, we establish a space conducive to inspiration and innovation. Here’s how hygge enhances creativity:
- Reduced Stress: A cozy atmosphere encourages relaxation, which is essential for creative thinking. When stress levels decrease, the mind is free to explore new ideas and possibilities.
- Encouraging Collaboration: Hygge promotes social interaction, making it an excellent backdrop for brainstorming sessions or collaborative projects. Sharing ideas in a comfortable setting can spark inspiration and lead to innovative solutions.
- Mindful Reflection: The mindfulness associated with hygge allows individuals to engage deeply with their thoughts. This reflective state is crucial for creativity, as it enables the synthesis of ideas and exploration of different perspectives.
- Nurturing Passion Projects: Hygge invites us to invest time in activities we love, whether it’s painting, writing, or crafting. This focus on personal passions nurtures creativity and encourages us to explore our talents without pressure.
Incorporating hygge into your life doesn’t require a complete change. As a creative, you probably see the “micro-moments” when you need quiet, warm and cozy feelings, we know how it feels. Creating a space and collecting those things that help you support these needs is actually creating Hygge.
Use candles when you write, cover your favorite reading nook with pillows, make quiet and calm playlists on spotify (Here’s ours) or order your favorite tea bags collection.
It’s a whole new way to support your creativity
Hygge is more than just a lifestyle; it’s a philosophy that invites us to savor life’s simple pleasures while nurturing our creativity.
By embracing the principles laid out in Meik Wiking’s *The Little Book of Hygge*, we can cultivate a sense of comfort, connection, and inspiration.
As we integrate hygge into our daily creative lives, we unlock the potential for greater happiness and creativity, enriching our personal and professional development in meaningful ways.
