Hygge is a Danish concept encompassing a cozy and contented mood that prioritizes simplicity, comfort, warmth, and meaningful connections.
As both philosophy and lifestyle, hygge is celebrated for several mental health benefits in several cultures across the world, particularly during winters.
The Dutch version of hygge, this lifestyle philosophy espouses cosiness and comfort in social interaction and positively vibing together.
Gemütlichkeit stands for a mental state of cosiness and peace, as well as a sense of belonging-ness.
The Norwegian adjective is used to describe a feeling of everyday togetherness, warmth, and intimacy in an agreeable environment.
The Swedish adjective (and its associated philosophy of lagom or "just enough") noun mys) describes a pleasant and warm atmosphere of togetherness in a pleasant setting.
The Japanese adjective/verb suggests a feeling of calm, relaxation, and mindfulness.
The adjective conveys the sense of a familiar, homey, and informal domestic setting.
Interestingly, every cultural equivalent of hygge is proven to reduce risks of mental health conditions like seasonal depression, social isolation, or PTSD that manifest during the festive season.