Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle deeply rooted in Danish culture. Often defined as a sense of coziness, warmth, and togetherness, hygge is about creating spaces and moments that bring comfort and joy to everyday life. It’s no coincidence that the Danes, known for embracing hygge, consistently rank among the happiest people in the world.

Let’s explore the ten principles of hygge, tips for making your home a cozy sanctuary, and local stores where you can find the perfect elements to bring hygge into your life.

What is Hygge?

Hygge is the art of making life’s simplest pleasures extraordinary. It’s curling up with a warm blanket on a chilly evening, sharing a candlelit meal with friends, or sipping hot cocoa by the fire. Hygge isn’t about extravagance. It’s about intentionally creating a sense of well-being and contentment.

The Ten Principles of Hygge

Atmosphere: Create soft, warm lighting using candles, string lights, or dimmed lamps.
Presence: Be in the moment—turn off screens and focus on the people or activities around you.
Pleasure: Indulge in simple joys like a rich cup of coffee, warm pastries, or a favorite book.
Equality: Emphasize togetherness; hygge is about sharing moments as equals.
Gratitude: Appreciate the little things in life, from a kind gesture to a beautiful sunset.
Harmony: Avoid competition; hygge moments are about peaceful collaboration.
Comfort: Surround yourself with items that make you feel safe, relaxed, and content.
Truce: Leave stressful topics at the door—hygge is a time for harmony, not conflict.
Togetherness: Build connections by spending time with loved ones in cozy settings.
Shelter: Your home is your sanctuary, where you can recharge and feel at ease.

How to Make Your Home Extra Cozy

Here are some tips to incorporate hygge into your home:

Layer Textures: Use plush blankets, soft cushions, and wool throws to add warmth and texture to your space.
Add Warm Lighting: To create a calm ambiance, replace harsh overhead lights with candles, lanterns, or string lights.
Create Cozy Nooks: Designate a corner with a comfy chair, a small table, and a blanket for reading or relaxing.
Incorporate Natural Elements: Bring nature indoors with plants, wooden furniture, and stone or ceramic accents.
Embrace Scents: Use candles, diffusers, or simmer pots with soothing scents like lavender, vanilla, or cinnamon.
Simplify Your Decor: Keep things minimal yet inviting, focusing on functionality and beauty.

Local Shops to Find Hygge Essentials

Bringing hygge into your life starts with adding cozy elements to your home. Here are local stores in each market that offer items perfect for creating your own hygge haven:

Grand Forks, ND:
- Midtown Marketplace: This charming small business collaborative supports over 40 local small businesses and offers a variety of candles, cozy throws, and farmhouse-style decor to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
St. Cloud, MN:
- Copper Pony: An eclectic, unique shop in Sauk Rapids that’s locally owned and is filled with locally made candles, artisanal soaps, and unique home goods perfect for embracing hygge.
Detroit Lakes and Perham, MN:
- Lit Decor & Gift: Locally owned and family-run, every item in this store is intentionally chosen with customers in mind. They aim to make your house a home with cozy decor, lighting, furniture, and more.
Alexandria, MN:
- Scandinavian Gift Shop: Celebrating Scandinavian culture since 1983, this local, family-run business offers Scandinavian food, clothing, home decor, and gifts. You’ll definitely find items that will enhance your hygge space.
Fergus Falls, MN:
- Creative Handmade Goods: This store features small batch, natural handmade bath and body products, cozy decor, and more. Perfect for embracing the hygge lifestyle.
Winona, MN:
- Orno Gift & Home: Known for their “unique collection of objects that serve to adorn and spark joy in our everyday lives,” this store will help you create the perfect hygge space.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Hygge and Find Joy

Hygge is a reminder to slow down and find joy in the little things. By incorporating its principles into your life and creating a cozy environment at home, you can tap into the happiness and contentment that Danes are celebrated for. Visit one of the local stores listed above to find the perfect pieces to help you embrace hygge this season.