Hygee, etymologically speaking, originates from the Old Norse word "hugr," meaning "soul, mind, consciousness." It reflects the ancient Scandinavian custom of seeking comfort and security in harsh natural environments through firelight, community bonds, and introspection. In contemporary Danish culture, Hygee transcends the word itself; it's a way of life. It's not just about feeling warm and cozy physically, but also about the psychological states of security, self-integrity, and social connection. Considered as a cultural pillar behind Denmark's reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world, Hygee helps people cultivate inner peace during the long winters.

Creating Your Own "Restoration Niches"

  • Soft Lighting Ambiance
  • Soft Textures
  • Familiar Objects
Psychology has a down-to-earth concept called "Restoration Niches." Basically, it’s your very own private space—somewhere that feels totally safe and relaxing. Being there helps you calm your mind, recharge your batteries, and just be your true self, no pretense needed.

In this fast-paced society, we sometimes have to "play roles" to make a living. At work, we must be reliable partners; at home, we must be understanding children and gentle parents. These identities are like layers of masks, draining our psychological energy in the daily "playing." A "Restoration Niches" is like a "sanctuary for the soul," allowing you to temporarily remove your mask, shed your pretense, detach yourself from the various social identities imposed upon you by life, and reconnect with your true self.

This corner doesn't need to be elaborate: it could be a small area by the window in your bedroom, a lounge chair on the balcony, or even a regular seat in your favorite café. If you choose to do it at home, you can lay out a soft blanket, add warm lighting, and surround it with familiar and beloved items: plush toys, books, flowers, aromatherapy, etc. Soft lighting dispels anxiety, soft touches soothe fatigue, and familiar objects enhance a sense of belonging, allowing you to completely relax in this corner and helping you rebuild your inner balance.

Easy and Simple Physical Activities

  • Light Exercise
  • No Purposeful Intent
  • Home Stretching
Have you ever noticed that when you're feeling down or lacking energy, a little movement can make you feel much better? This isn't an illusion. The "Endorphin Hypothesis" in psychology has long provided an explanation: exercise stimulates the brain to release endorphins—natural substances known as "happy hormones"—which can relieve physical fatigue and combat low moods. Even low-intensity activity can trigger their release.

You don't need to pursue high-intensity fitness goals, nor do you need to pressure yourself to "exercise for half an hour." Easy and simple physical activities are enough: do a set of shoulder and neck stretches during work breaks to relieve stiffness from prolonged sitting; spend 10 minutes on a facial massage before bed to relax tense nerves; take a walk after dinner and feel the pleasant evening breeze on your cheeks; or do a simple yoga session in the morning to slowly stretch your body. These exercises don't require a specific purpose, and you don't need to worry about "whether they're effective." Just focus on how your body feels—the stretching of muscles, the evenness of your breathing, the steadyness of your heartbeat. In this process, daily worries will gradually dissipate, and your mood will become lighter.

Prepare and Enjoy Warm Food

  • Steaming Hot Dishes
  • Enjoy the Aroma
  • Share the Deliciousness
A classic scene from Marcel Proust's Remembrance of Things Past shows the protagonist dipping his madeleine cake in tea, a flood of childhood memories washing over him. This phenomenon, where "the smell of a particular aroma evokes strong memories and emotions," is known as the "Proust Effect."

We can also actively create such happy connections: on a cold winter's day, prepare a steaming hot meal for yourself or loved ones. For example, stewing a pot of tender, flavorful tomato beef brisket, watching the bright red tomatoes and succulent beef slowly meld in the pot, and smelling the rich aroma filling the air—the waiting itself is a form of healing. Or baking a plate of sweet cookies, the aroma of butter filling the entire house. Invite family and friends to share this delicious treat, seeing their satisfied smiles, and hearing each other's laughter—this warm memory will be inextricably linked to the aroma of the food. When you smell a similar aroma again in the future, the happiness and emotion of that time will instantly well up in your heart, becoming a healing force for your weariness.

Enjoy time with family and friends

  • Casual Chats
  • Board Games & Handicrafts
  • Karaoke Together
As social animals, humans naturally have a need to regularly connect and meet with friends and family. Psychological research indicates that intermittent social interaction can maintain relationship quality, relieve stress, and improve overall well-being. Good relationships require mutual effort and maintenance. Intermittent contact and meetings not only effectively maintain relationships but also give each other space, further promoting the long-term development of the relationship.
You probably also have friends like that; being with them isn't draining but recharging. You don't need to deliberately find topics to talk about, you don't need to fake happiness, even just casual conversation can help you unwind. If you have free time on the weekend, why not invite friends over for a nice meal, sharing updates while enjoying delicious food? Or play board games or do crafts – these interactive activities are better for strengthening your relationships. If you want to release stress, go to a karaoke bar and sing your heart out, letting all your unhappiness melt away with the music.

Cherish Quiet Time Alone

  • Pursue Hobbies
  • Allow Idleness
  • Be Present with Yourself
We are always busy chasing after things, busy socializing, busy meeting the expectations of others, but rarely have time to stop and be with ourselves. But solitude is actually the best way to have a dialogue with yourself; it allows us to calm down in the midst of noise, organize our thoughts, and rediscover the rhythm of life.
Solitude doesn't have to be about "achieving something": You can do nothing, curl up on the sofa and let your mind "shut down"; or you can do something immersive—read a book you've always wanted to read, or paint a picture that doesn't need to be perfect; you can also refer to the 6 Simple Solo Home Tasks to Reclaim Life Control. Control shared previously, and find order in your life through simple home activities.

Sometimes, slowing down helps you go further. During these quiet moments, organize your thoughts, gently accompany yourself like a close friend, be more forgiving of yourself, listen to your inner voice, and enjoy the time spent with yourself.
Hygee is never about complicated life skills, but rather an attitude of "feeling life with your heart"—finding small moments of comfort and peace in the ordinary, nurturing inner strength in warmth and companionship. May we all practice Hygee in our lives and live each day with gentleness.