If anyone knows me, they know, Copenhagen is my favorite city in the world (so far atleast). I went there three years in a row I loved it so much. Sadly we didn’t make it back this year cause my sister had a baby & I just wanted to get to know the little guy… but I missed it terribly.

Actually, I had serious withdrawals all summer long (& now- looking at all these throwback HYGGE moments)

If I could live anywhere, it’d be Copenhagen. I am most myself in that city, happiest in that city, & just so in love with every inch of that city.

In general, I just love the Danish way of life.

Why Copenhagen thought? I get asked this SO much.

I could really write a novel about the WHY. The weather (even if it’s kinda bipolar), the people, the views from our favorite hotel room (we had the same one each year), the atmosphere, the food, the decor, the design, the bike riding, the shopping, the fashion….

but mostly, to sum up my obsession, HYGGE.

I honestly couldn’t put my love for Copenhagen into words until I learned about Hygge.

+ the most Hygge hotel, SP34 +

So, what is Hygge?

Hygge is the Danish word for a feeling of coziness, comfort, & joy. You can’t buy it, just like you can’t buy happiness, & although I am going to share some pointers to try & help you embrace Hygge… it is just one of those things that you either feel, or you don’t

For me- Hygge is a rainy day, candles lit, hot tea, movies playing, & snuggling with my dogs. It’s Sunday mornings when Zack surprises me with pastries in bed. It’s when I am sitting on my Mom’s porch holding my nephew.

In the states, that’s where I feel most Hygge… but in Copenhagen, I feel it everywhere I go. I am usually a homebody for the exact reason that I love to be cozy, but in Copenhagen the beauty is you don’t have to be cuddled on the couch to feel it. The restaurant’s dim lighting is Hygge, the late night pizza spot crowded with people is Hygge, the greenery everywhere you go is Hygge, the color palette of the cit is even Hygge, the charming streets are Hygge, the blankets in the coffee shops are Hygge, Christiania (the free town, where you can freely smoke the flower) is VERY Hygge, the place that serves only porridge is Hygge, Torvehallerne market is Hygge, the 15 minute bursts of rain while people are waiting out under store overhangs is Hygge.

…& that my friends, is why Copenhagen is my favorite city. So much so, I got Hygge tattooed on me last time I was there (which someone in the airport made fun of me for cause I was American, but they just don’t understand what Hygge means to me).

& now, Hygge is kind of a trend.

It was recently on the short list for word of the year, there is a Hygge face mask (yes, I ordered it), & even a Hygge clothing line. Although, like I said, you can’t buy it… but people all over the world are catching on to this magical Danish lifestyle.

Now, My 5 Tips to Bring More Hygge into Your Life

1. Set the Mood: this one is kinda obvious, but you want to make sure your home is fully equipped for the Hygge. I want everyone who comes into my house to feel at home, so you will find cozy blankets, dim lighting (luckily my new place has dimmers on all the lights which is VERY HYGGE), & always- tons of yummy smelling candles lit.

2. Get Green: I am not the luckiest with plants, but in Denmark, greenery is HUGE & I fully think it contributes to the Hygge feel… so I am changing my black thumb ways & doing a lot more plants in the house. Nature is a stress reliever, & something about plants just make me feel that mellow vibe. Hit up the nursery, more is more (in this case only). If plants REALLY aren’t you’re thing, just make sure to add natural elements to the home (i.e. wood!). Also, plant stands are very danish, & Hygge.

3. Minimal Everything: the Danish are minimalists, it’s kinda what they’re none for. Less is definitely more when it comes to everything- technology, belongings, food, clothing choices, work, etc. Streamline your belongings & only have things in your home that tell a story (here are some tips on how to embrace a minimalist mentality in the home), keep your clothing choices cozy (monochrome, soft fabrics, sneakers, & cozy sweaters are big in Copenhagen- & very stylish), leave work at work (spend your free time with friends, chilling in the park, riding a bike, walking the dog).

4. Host a Dinner Party: the Danish are about quality time with loved ones & dinner parties are a regular occurrence. Nothing fancy, but gather your friends & spend the evening enjoying each others company. Whip up a cheese plate, grab some drinks, & always set the table. Setting the table is a must. It makes the dinner party an experience. Incorporate candles on the table, get some chill music going, hang up twinkle lights, supply the wine & prepare for a Hygge night at home with all your favorite people.

5. Instant Hygge, just Add Water: I take a bath every single night because it really is one of the most Hygge things you can do. Again, it should be an experience that involves candles (always), a good book, a glass of wine, & some much needed peach & quiet. You can check out my top tips for the most Hygge bath ever here.

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