O.K., let's hygge.

Cabin tucked deep in the Appalachians in the winter; photo by KAnniePowell

O.K...so let's hygge.

The Danish art of 'Hygge' is all the rage in circles of those convivial souls trying to cultivate a (home) life that nourishes the soul. In fact, I ordered a book about it. :)

Here is a blurb that might (?) be helpful from wikipedia on the subject. (I had to correct their misspelled words. Does anybody else ever notice that?) :)

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"Hygge is a Norwegian word with a unique definition[1] (although very similar to the Dutch word Gezelligheid). "Hygge" as a noun includes a feeling, a social atmosphere, and an action. The word is also used in compositions as "Julehygge" (Christmas-hygge). "Hygge" is also a verb e.g. "Let's hygge" and as an adjective e.g. "A small, hyggeligt house with grass on the roof".

The noun "Hygge" includes something nice, cozy, safe and known, referring to a psychological state.[2] "Hygge" is a state where all psychological needs are in balance. The antonym of hygge is uhyggelig, which translates as 'scary'.[3]"

Collins English Dictionary defines the word as "a concept, originating in Denmark, of creating cozy and convivial atmospheres that promote well-being'.[4]" (Source for all above along with additional references: Wikipedia; here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygge)

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In case you are wondering, 'hygge' is pronounced with the French 'u' nasal sound in the middle and phonetically a bit like this as follows. (There is a LOT of debate about the phonetic pronunciation!)

Ha ha! :)

Phonetically: 'Hygge' or 'Hu-gah' or 'Hew–ga.' (But get the French 'u' sound in there!)

     

   

Let's take a break and above is a bit of 'hygge' for you. Meditate here.