Hygge

Hygge (pronounced “hyoo-gah”) is a Norwegian and Danish term that many have adopted as slang to describe a cozy, comforting, and warm atmosphere, especially during colder seasons like fall and winter (similar to cozy vibes and sweater weather). Beyond physical comforts, hygge embodies a mindful, balanced lifestyle where one savors the present and finds joy in life’s small, comforting moments, which is especially pertinent during fall and winter as people seek warmth and coziness in their daily routines.

Origin of hygge

In Danish and Norwegian cultures, hygge is the cultivation of a sense of contentment in a person's life by embracing simple pleasures and creating a peaceful, inviting environment (examples include soft blankets, candlelight, and spending time with loved ones). It became a lifestyle trend in the U.S. and the U.K. in the mid-2010s due to the popularity of several books, including The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking, published in 2016.

Hygge then morphed into a social media trend in 2017, where people shared photos and ideas inspired by the concept, using the term to describe warm, cozy scenes and activities. For example, a hygge social post may involve a person reading a book while wearing cozy pajamas under a pile of blankets on a couch next to a warm fire and sipping hot chocolate.