How to Practice Hygge in the Summer

Text by  Katie Dohman

The Danish concept of coziness isn’t just for winter months. Here's how to practice hygge when it's hot.

By now, you might be familiar with the art of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah), which hails from one of the world’s most consistently happy countries: Denmark. The word has no direct translation in English, but according to Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen and author of The Little Book of Hygge, it may have roots in the Norwegian hugge, from which “hug” derives. Essentially, it means coziness, comfort, and to be enveloped in a sense of well-being.

While many Americans may practice hygge by adding fluffy down blankets, roaring fires, and candles to their homes to comfort them during the days with the least daylight — an approach Wiking calls a “survival strategy” for “the duvet of darkness” — the concept permeates all aspects of Danish culture. That means hygge has its place in the warmer months, too. Plus, if you experience warm weather year-round, you needn’t miss out on hygge’s happifying benefits.

With that in mind, consider these ideas for hygge in hot(ter) weather.

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