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!).