International Happiness Day 2017

Sophie Chester • March 20, 2017

Get Hygge to get happy!

Taking Tips from Denmark on Hapiness

Today is International Happiness day and we are reflecting on Happiness and taking some pointers from Denmark - one of the happiest countries in the world according to a UN World Happiness Report.

So what can be learnt from the Danes on Happiness? One of the concepts which has come to signify the Danish view on happiness is Hygee – Pronounced “Hoo-gah”. The Oxford English Dictionary describes it as "to cherish oneself; to keep or make oneself snug". However, many Danish people will say you cannot describe Hygee,you need to feel it. It has become synonymous with a secure feeling of cosy socks, candles, Danish pastries, an open fire and snuggling on a sofa with friends – all at the same time and ideally whilst a wild storm rages outside.

Whilst this all starts to sound a bit trifling, one expert on Hygee and happiness Meik Wiking, points out that it is more about holistic well-being, family, friends, support systems and a healthy approach to State Welfare. Referred to as collective well-being, Denmark’s ethos is that high taxes enable them to invest in society and therefore, purchase a higher quality of life. High levels of well-being in Denmark are characteristic of the welfare model’s ability to reduce risk, uncertainty and anxiety ……therefore preventing extreme unhappiness(…and breathe!).

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