A few years ago, a friend gave me a book about the Dutch practice of hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”). It is basically about creating atmosphere – having a cozy, warm home or room, wearing comfortable clothing, and celebrating life with good friends and good food. Candles, blankets, sweaters, and soups top the list of ways to create this feeling. It’s more than a practice, it’s a lifestyle.
I have purchased two additional books about hygge and try to incorporate some of its aspects into my own life, as well. Getting together in small groups to read or play games, with no stress about time frames, food presentation, or dress code is key to enjoying this lifestyle. For me, it means a basket of blankets near my reading chair and candles flickering on the counter.
Last year, I learned about the Icelandic practice of “jolabokafloo” (pronounced “yo-lah-boh-kah-flawd”), which roughly translates to “Yule book flood.” Every year on Christmas Eve, the folks in Iceland buy a new book and take it to someone’s home as a gift to trade. Then, everyone settles in to read and drink a beverage. The quintessential choice there is warm and rich cocoa paired with chocolates. This practice is part of why Iceland is rated as one of the most literate countries in the world, as well as happiest, I suspect. Iceland published more books per capita than any other country, with around 80% of annual book sales happening during the Jolabokafloo period (which lasts into January). Icelanders read an average of 2.3 books per month and Icelandic youth frequently read in languages other than Icelandic. This literary bent really calls to me, as I read several books monthly. Though I’ve yet to read a book in another language, sometimes I feel like old-world British is a bit foreign!
This year, I read about the Danish practice of “dusking.” Dusking means going outside (to a place with a view, so not as helpful to those folks who live in the big cities) and silently watching as the last of the sun goes away. It’s helpful to have a horizon line – farm land or trees are excellent choices. Then, as the sun dips down, allow yourself to watch the light and enjoy being surrounded by darkness.
Dusking creates a short period of mindfulness and appreciation of God’s creation. This consistent practice affords a time to reflect, to be immersed in the changing of the day, and to be totally present in the world. It’s a huge counter to the busy-ness of everyday life and to the constant demands of technology.
It’s no surprise that, according to the World Happiness Report, the five happiest countries in the world consistently include Denmark, Netherlands, Iceland, Finland and Sweden. These are areas of the world that focus on family, comfort, sharing, and appreciating our world. As I’m writing this, we (in the Midwest) are preparing to “spring forward” tonight. I plan to enjoy the last of the daylight today dusking, and see if it helps my mood. If nothing else, it will add to my enjoyment of the many wonders of my world.
life, to me, is ALL about family and always hs been! Especially since my family expanded a lot- since i became a child of Jesus and gained a whwole bunch of new family!!