When you hear or read about 'Hygge', you might quickly think of dark autumn and winter evenings, when you make things cozy indoors with candles and soft blankets. Or of a forest walk in the crisp cold, after which you warm up by the fireplace with a hot cup of tea and a book or a good conversation.
But 'hygge' is something Danes pay attention to all year round. Unconsciously, because it's simply their way of life. So even in spring and summer, there are ways to feel 'hygge'.
The origin of the contemporary word hygge comes from Old Norse and meant something like 'to comfort' and 'to feel content'. And that doesn't change the essence of hygge in summer compared to winter, of course.
Hygge in summer
A blanket and a fire for when it gets chilly outside in the evening, outdoor candles for a cozy atmosphere, and an iced coffee are a few simple translations from winter to summer hygge. And if you think a little further, there are more things you can bring from the cold short days to the long balmy days and evenings.
Below are five simple tips to make this summer 'hyggelig'.
1. Make it cozy outdoors
In summer, the garden becomes an extension of your living room, so why not make it just as beautiful and cozy as indoors? In my case, there are many green plants and flowers, so I like to keep the outdoor decor somewhat neutral. With a beautiful outdoor sofa, nice cozy cushions, lace tablecloths, and a lovely throw for when it gets cold in the evening. To top it off, I hang some solar lanterns that cheerfully light up when it gets dark.
2. Eat outside
Whether you spread a blanket in a park and have a juice with a simple snack, have an elaborate dinner in your own backyard, or light the BBQ: eating outdoors is part of it. Especially if your garden is cozily decorated according to tip 1. After dinner, you can then relax by a fire and stare at the stars. And an extra tip for when you're picnicking: lie on your back and see if you can spot figures in the clouds. Also fun with kids.
3. Hit the road
Experience nature with all your senses by taking a lovely bike ride or walk among the trees and meadows. Or maybe you can go swimming somewhere outdoors, in the sea, a lake, or a natural swimming pool.
4. Fresh flowers everywhere
Nothing beats fresh flowers on the table, I think. From your own garden, from a pick-your-own flower garden, or from the supermarket. If it were up to me, there would be a beautiful vase not only on the dining table but also in the kitchen on the windowsill, on my desk, next to the TV, and outside on the table. With flowers, you bring nature, summer, and color into your home!
5. Make something delicious
Blackcurrant syrup, limoncello, strawberry ice cream. Summer is the season for fresh fruit. You can grow it yourself in the garden or on your balcony, and if you don't have space/time/desire for that, there's an abundance of choice at the farm shop or supermarket. My grandfather used to have a large vegetable garden where my grandmother made the most delicious berry sauce. And the internet is full of books and recipes to get started yourself. I also really enjoy drawing a nice label for it :)
With these five tips, your summer will be completely hyggelig! Now let's just hope the weather cooperates a bit so you'll actually want to go outside ;) Enjoy!