Livin' the Hygge Life, Like...
When I was a child, I had this lovely fantasy of being able to hibernate. I imagined myself in a quiet, underground cave, snoozing next to an open fire, and surrounded by books. I could lay low for the winter months, snooze, eat, read, repeat. I could bide my time simply, and enjoy the coziness of the season. (I think my mind's image was profoundly inspired by Beatrix Potter's Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse...) Little did I know that there is a term for this inclination to get quiet and cozy, and to appreciate and savor the simplicity of warm, intimate settings and interactions. The actual word, "Hygge," has no direct English translation. The term, concept, or way of life (however you interpret is up to you) hails from Denmark, and originates from a need to cope, physically, spiritually, and emotionally with the long, cold, dark winter months. "Hygge refers to finding comfort, pleasure, and warmth in simple, soothing things such as a cozy atmosphere or the...