Have you ever heard of hygge? This unpronounceable Danish word actually contains a world of meanings: today we want to get specific and find out everything there is to know about this philosophy made in Denmark. To try and explain it, many people have compared it to a cozy and intimate atmosphere while savoring the pleasures of life surrounded by the affection of loved ones. But not only this: the warm light of a candle is hygge, a fresh slice of cake is hygge, but also friends and family are hygge. Is it precisely because of this hygge that the Danish are always crowned as the happiest people in the world?

Hygge: 7 rules for applying it to your life

For over 40 years, Denmark has been considered one of the happiest countries in the world: what is the reason? The answer is all in the word "hygge": this term dates back to about the nineteenth century and derives from the Germanic word “hyggja” which means “to feel satisfied”. For those who want a more specific literal translation, we're sorry, but it doesn't exist, however, we can follow the 7 Danish rules that allow you to live your life peacefully and happily:

1. the first thing to do is be yourself in every situation, not being afraid to show your essence;
2. another very important aspect involves distancing as much as possible everything that has a negative halo: it is important to try to focus on beauty, seeking it in all its forms;
3. equally significant is to work on feeling part of a community: actively participating in your family, contributing to animate small moments of daily sharing. Even in the workplace, it is required to devote yourself to the team, trying to enhance it, always giving the best of yourself;
4. consider the hygge factor as a refuge from the outside world and from the unpredictability of everyday life: here each person can come into contact with themselves, finding their balance and their dimension;
5. turn off your mobile phone more often: hygge is also about depriving oneself of distractions and focusing on the really important things. In many countries, the idea of banning work emails outside office hours is increasingly being talked about and for this reason, it is advisable to start by keeping the phone turned off for an evening, dedicating yourself only to the intimacy of your own domestic hearth;
6. do not neglect the importance of sleep: if there is a hygge activity that is too often underestimated, it is precisely sleeping. But not just normal night sleep: also a weekend afternoon nap can give a lot of satisfaction;
7. rediscover your most authentic contact with nature: going out for a bike ride is the ideal way to focus on the beauty that surrounds us, especially in a naturally fascinating country like Denmark.

If you're still not fully satisfied and are eager to live the scent of this incredible hygge firsthand, no fear: you can join us in discovering Denmark by bike. An authentic concentration of nature, beauty and art: once you've discovered true hygge, you won't be able to do without it!