Hygge, Tea and Togetherness

What is ‘hygge’?

 

There is no perfect English translation for hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), but ‘cosiness’, ‘happiness’ and ‘kinship’ come close. Hygge is “the art of creating intimacy” and “taking pleasure from the presence of soothing things”. 

 

With numerous books written about hygge, it was shortlisted for Word of the Year in 2016. It seems the rest of the world has caught on to something the Danish have been enjoying for a long time.

 

Deeply ingrained in Danish culture, hygge is a lifestyle developed out of necessity that has been enjoyed for centuries. With freezing cold temperatures and minimal daylight in winter, the Danish found a way relish in feeling warm, cosy and content; often as simple as snuggling by the fire with a nice cup of tea.

 

 

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Researchers surveyed Danes on what they most associate hygge with. In second place were candles, as the Danish burn through more candles per capita than any other country. In first place however were hot drinks, as this is what 86 percent of Danes best associate hygge with.

 

Many Danish doctors even recommend “tea and hygge” as a remedy for the common cold.

 

“Danes are good at focusing on what brings them a better quality of life.” Says Meik Wiking, author of The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well.

 

Meik is the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen and has studied the magic of Danish living for many years. During his lectures he often asks the audience to picture their most vidid happy memory. Nine times out of ten, he says, the audience tell him other people were in this memory.

 

While hygge can be enjoyed alone, ‘togetherness’ is an essential part – at its core is trust and companionship with others. Time spent with others creates a warm and comfortable atmosphere: the key to hygge.

 

At The Tea Centre, we’re celebrating tea and togetherness this season. As Bodum was founded in Denmark, our range of Bodum glassware is perfect to enjoy the tea ritual with. Our teapot and warmer bundle allows you to gather for hours while your tea remains piping hot.

 

If you’re looking for tea to share, try our warm and wonderful Toasty Tea range.

 

To experience hygge for yourself this winter, we recommend brewing up a pot and enjoying tea with perfect company. Enjoy!