Hygge: Das Dänische Geheimnis des Glücklichseins: Wie man täglich zufrieden und gesund leben kann (Hygge and Lagom)

by Maya Thoresen

Wenn du schon immer ein einfacheres, gem�tlicheres Leben f�hren wolltest, dich aber von kleinsten Details �berflutet f�hlst, dann lies weiter... Du hast es satt, in einer hektischen, stressigen Umgebung zu leben, sowohl zu Hause als auch am Arbeitsplatz?Hast du schon unz�hlige andere L�sungen ausprobiert, aber nichts scheint mehr als nur ein paar Wochen zu funktionieren?M�chtest du dich endlich von der Unordnung verabschieden und etwas entdecken, was bei dir funktioniert?Dann bist du hier genau richtig. Denn ein komfortabler und gem�tlicher Lebensstil muss nicht kompliziert sein - auch wenn du jedes beliebige Organisationssystem in den L�den und jede Entspannungstechnik bei Pinterest ausprobiert hast! Tats�chlich sind die Dinge einfacher, als du denkst. Seit Jahren zeigen die Erf�llung und die Zufriedenheit der d�nischen Hygge-praktizierenden, dass ein einfaches, gem�tliches Leben f�r die Stressreduzierung sehr f�rderlich sein kann.Popul�re Publikationen wie Elle UK haben angef�hrt, dass Hygge ein wichtiger Indikator daf�r sein kann, warum D�nemark eine der gl�cklichsten Bev�lkerungsgruppen der Welt hat. Hygge ist eine einfach zu integrierende Lebenseinstellung und bedeutet, dass du den gew�nschten Lebensstil erreichen kannst, ohne enorme Ver�nderungen an allem in deinem Leben vornehmen zu m�ssen! Hier ist nur ein winziger Bruchteil dessen, was du entdecken wirst: So richtest du ein Hygge-Heim einWarum die Unordnung in deinem Haus, B�ro und Geist deinem Fortschritt schadet - und was du stattdessen tun solltestWie du Zeit und Energie gewinnen kannst, ohne etwas Drastisches zu tun- mach deine Zeit zu deiner eigenen!Durch deinen hektischen Lebensstil kann der Hygge-Lebensstil sabotiert werdenWie du dir mit nur wenigen einfachen �nderungen in deiner Routine Zeit, Geld und Stress ersparst.Vorschl�ge von Hygge-Praktizierenden auf der ganzen Welt, die dir helfen, deinen Tag friedlich und vorbereitet zu beginnen - kein Erscheinen mehr im B�ro, wo du schon vor Tagesbeginn gestresst bist!Die gr��ten Fehler, die Menschen machen, wenn sie ein Gef�hl der Behaglichkeit erzeugen (Hinweis: Es hat mit dem Preis zu tun!).Kleine Schritte, die du in deine Alltagsmuster integrieren kannst, um dir auf deiner Hygge-Reise zu helfen... und vieles, vieles mehr! Nimm dir eine Sekunde Zeit, um dir vorzustellen, wie du dich f�hlen wirst, wenn du dich in deinem Hygge-Haus entspannst, umgeben von Ruhe und Komfort. Denke daran, wie deine Familie und deine Freunde auf deine neue Energie und dein Interesse am Wohlbefinden reagieren werden. Selbst wenn du also zu Hause, bei der Arbeit, bei Freunden, Familie und mehr bis zum �u�ersten gestresst bist, kannst du lernen, ein gem�tliches Leben mit Hygge zu f�hren. Und wenn du den brennenden Wunsch hast, dich zu entspannen, Unordnung loszuwerden und eine bequeme Sinnesform zu leben, dann scrolle nach oben und klicke auf "In den Warenkorb".

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Cultural, Lifestyle

116 pages, Paperback

Published October 26, 2019

About the author

Maya Thoresen is a Scandinavian lifestyle coach. She immigrated to the United States when she was twenty and was stunned by the hectic way of life that many Americans practiced, as well as the high rates of suicide, depression, heart disease, and other stress-related illnesses. She now works as a writer and mentor, helping people make their lives both simpler and richer at the same time. She has written books on Hygge and Lagom to reach people who are caught up in the hustle of commercialized life and who have forgotten to enjoy the simpler moments.

Reviews

[Stace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Abby on www.whisperingstories.com

Hygge – or ‘hoo-gah’ as it’s pronounced – is a concept of living that is taking over Instagram feeds across the globe. Danish for cosiness – well, sort of, there is no direct translation – hygge represents a truly Scandinavian way of life.

As Thoresen explains, ‘hygge can be used to refer to all aspects of life in the form of a noun, verb or adjective to describe someone that falls under the hygge concept’.

And that concept is one that this book goes to explore within different aspects of Western life: home, work, relationships, food and drink, and activities.

Hygge is a quick read, something that takes you through the very basics of the lifestyle, making it a great introduction to the concept for someone who has never heard of it. It’s the ideal ‘Hygge For Dummies’.

Personally, I have been interested – bordering on sceptical – in the concept of ‘hygge’ for a year or so, but have never really taken the time to find out more. Aside from scrolling through the hygge-sters’ social media feeds of taupe blankets, cups of steaming coffee and pristine IKEA-style apartments (which I like!), I have never really considered how the concept of hygge could work outside the home or how it can be embraced in family life.

Thoresen’s book is brilliant at addressing what hygge actually means and how it works on a day-to-day level. Her style of writing is clear, informative and functional – taking hygge to its very nature.

A point I found particularly (and personally) interesting is when the principles of hygge are discussed at the start of the book: ‘Choose to talk about the good things instead of voicing complaints, and look for sources of good news’. Linking back to social media, I know I can find it difficult to think positively in the sea of angry, political tweets. The reminder that we actually have some power to curate what we read is refreshing.

The book covers lots of tips to achieve a sense of hygge in even the busiest, more distracted of lifestyles. Some are easier to experience than others. The key points are ‘pleasure’ and ‘comfort’, with a real importance on spending time with those you love with the minimum of distractions, which describes my ideal Sunday.

For those who do have some knowledge of hygge, this book may not feature anything new, but it’s a speedy refresher on its principles, with so many ideas for family activities.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

The concept of hygge (pronounced hue-guh) was new to me. It’s a Danish concept having to do with quality of life and a way of living encompassing warmth, coziness, relationships, mindfulness, etc. This book is an introduction to the principles of Hygge. I found it too brief and generalized to be helpful or enlightening but the concept is intriguing.

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find the concept of hygge intriguing and enjoyed learning a little more about it. The book includes some helpful tips, tricks, and techniques.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook review

I love the idea of Hygge & how good it is for you.
I do believe I practice a few of these things & I can say a lot is common sense. But it’s good to have it here as a reference & to be able to listen to when I need a reminder to chill & breathe.

A good book to keep around, short & sweet.
Narrator was good, clear & bouncy.

[Natalie Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I look forward to applying some of the principles from this book to my life. Who doesn’t need more cozy in their life?

[Christine Pilcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappointing

I didn't find this book a good advert for Hygge. Very clinical attitude was off putting. I didn't enjoy it at all.

[Helena · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading several hygge books, this one is so general and goes over almost the same exact material other books do almost word for word. I rather get more specific examples to having a hygge life or even new ideas.

[Dawn Stahl · Rating 2 out of 5]

A short, basic introduction to hygge. Too short and basic for my tastes — I felt like I was reading a school paper or wikihow — but your mileage may vary.

[Helene Poppleton · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my favorite Hygge book. It had some good ideas, but it read like a middle school essay.

[Anonymous · Rating 4 out of 5]

Want to see more of my reviews? Check out my blog! Pulled from the original post on this page Hygge and Lagom DIY Bundle: Scandinavian living tips with Danish Hygge and Swedish Lagom for my Goodreads Challenge.
Reading the two concepts back-to-back establish the similarities between the two lifestyles and the crossover appeal in both. Admittedly I don’t normally pick these types of books up, I’m usually scared away by these, especially in the ones that take on a superior or accusatory tone- this one does neither. It goes through each chapter explaining and then reiterating certain points of the Hygge or Lagom lifestyle, as well as giving many different examples of how you could follow suit if you wanted to get in on the lifestyle- even giving some fun Swedish or Danish recipes near the end of each part.
I found myself engaged in the ideas almost right away, and inadvertently comparing my own lifestyle to the points described. A lot of the points I agree with, especially with the idea of appreciating the little things or going out and enjoying nature, enjoying time with family and taking time to do things that make you happy. All of those are important, and while I don’t think I’d go out and shuck my lifestyle in favor of starting anew I think a lot of these points can easily be incorporated into the day by day. I’d take comfort over style any day, I see the healthy foods movement abounding in America which in turn helps the small farming businesses, plus it’s just all around better for one’s health. Or making sure you enjoy your job, but take time off to enjoy your life too. I strongly agree with that, and I enjoy seeing those points emphasized in an encouraging way.
The emphasis on the minimalist lifestyle and family are wonderful too and I think would be a challenge for Americans to really get behind, but also something that needs to be thought about. Lagom focuses on many of the same things as Hygge, just in a slightly different approach with slightly different emphasis on different points. Yet both concern themselves with decluttering, finding fulfilment within one’s means, and does so in an encouraging voice.
The author’s style does a good job in being encouraging while also being informative as well as explaining everything out to those of us who have no idea what these concepts are- like me. I really appreciated that about the way the book is set up, as it allows for someone who has never really heard of the idea to poke around and see what it’s all about, while not being overly pressured into committing to something or made to feel bad for not committing to it. Everything is approached in an entirely manageable and realistic way. If you want to try some aspect of the lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to make some simple changes to get closer to the results explained in the chapters. It’s as simple as taking time out of the day for yourself, spending time with friends or family, do a hobby, spend time with your pet, go for a walk outside, garden- or whatever hobby translates to you as something you fully enjoy and can easily step out of your life for a bit to do, while also embracing yourself and what you enjoy and then surrounding yourself in whatever that is. By the end of the book I found myself going ‘hey, I do that already,’ or ‘hey I could do that if I really wanted to, maybe I should do that more, or make more time to spend reading a book, or watching a movie.’ It’s extremely easy to place yourself into the concept or to see if it’s something you’d want to do.
This is a great self-help guide that gives a lot of ways for you to get involved and to find something that works best for you, if you want to do that. With a new year started, this would also be great for if you want to try to pick new resolutions for yourself. There’s no pressure to commit wholeheartedly, and if anything you learn a few nice reminders or a few new things out of a couple of extremely interesting lifestyle movements. This is a great self-help book and pleasant to read!

[V · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been hearing a lot about Hygge and regularly coming across books on the topic. "They" say that exposure breeds affection, and because of all the exposure, I've been feeling compelled to read about the topic. When author Maya Thoresen offered her book for review, I was interested.

Review:

An interpretation of how to integrate principles of Danish happiness into an American life.

Why read a book on Danish happiness? Curiosity, unhappiness, a desire to know another culture? I read this out of curiosity, so my impression is likely much different from that of someone seeking a way to boost his/her own happiness. And I think this is the primary reason for my mixed reaction to the book.

Thoresen outlines the principles of hygge (Danish coziness/happiness), explaining how to incorporate this feeling of coziness into one's daily routine. Focusing on the moment, ensuring physical comfort, and attending to loved ones are the essential aspects, and the author makes suggestions on how to accomplish them in various settings and relationships. (I found it worth noting that there is a disclaimer at the start of the book, stating that Thoresen is not an expert on hygge.)

I had a mixed reaction to this book, likely due to my reason for reading. Some of the suggestions that the author makes assume a critical tone, for example: "When is the last time you...thanked [someone] for opening the door?" Or this one: "You should work hard together to remove the economic strife that causes problems in your marriage." Decluttering is also strongly advised, so that one will "not worry about stepping on something or having something fall on you." I do not have the impression of my life that these remarks imply.

At times, the book reads as though it had been dictated rather than written. I could imagine listening to a friend with knowledge of hygge talking the way that the book sounds. Sometimes conversations with friends can stray too far down the hypothetical path, and a few of Thoresen's theories about the hygge lifestyle seemed a bit far fetched, such as avoiding a friend "who always freaks you out" with "immoral shenanigans," or creating a vision board with images of one's goals. Other suggestions seem nice at first, such as getting a dog or a new job, but not necessarily realistic or feasible. And finally, the ebook I read had multiple typos, interrupting the flow of the narration.

From this book, I learned the basics of hygge, and I think that the author would heartily approve of the manner in which I read it: next to my husband on the couch, under a blanket, with candles flickering nearby, and snow falling outside. It was also entertaining to read one author's personal take on living out hygge on a daily basis, not just adding a blanket and nixing the high heels, but also setting up a closet for comfort and planning a menu. I found the tone and the typos a bit challenging, in what was an otherwise enjoyable read on an appealing subject.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sometimes Glib, Sometimes Practical Brief Overview of Hygge

I had never heard of the concept of hygge before I saw this book at my favorite online book review site. I do have an interest in a variety of self-help, motivational, lifestyle, and mindset topics. This little book seemed like it would tick most of those boxes. Hygge does not have a direct translation into English, but the concepts it embodies have to do with warmth, coziness, and contentment. Essentially, it encourages people to live more simply and comfortably but with more meaningfully. I've seen other references to it being about decluttering your life, but I think that oversimplifies the concept. It seems more about creating a life in which you yourself feel welcome and happy—and others do as well. In the short handbook, the author covers a wide range of topics from the hygge perspective: home, work, relationships, holidays, travel, etc. The book is repetitious in parts, but that doesn't seem outside of the realm of normal for a book of this nature, where the themes are fundamental and repeat no matter the focus. I thought some sections weren't particularly helpful or practical; in these sections, the writing seemed a little glib. Other parts were quite practical, giving very specific advice about how to employ hygge principles. I definitely got the sense, too, that the book was written by a non-native English speaker as some phrasing was awkward. I found the 21-day challenge to be a fascinating idea, and it could be easily extended. In a book of this length, nothing can really be gotten into in much depth, but if you are new to this concept and have an interest in it, you might like this overview.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.

[Cheri Roan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent guide To Living The Hygge Way!

“Putting some of the Hygge principles into practice can greatly improve the level of happiness a person feels as opposed to never taking the time to relax and just spend time with those they love.”

Calmness, relaxation, contentment, togetherness, cozy and warmth all equates to what we all search for in our lives. We desire peace and harmony in downtime as well as home and work. The question must be asked can this fully be achieved? The answer is a resounding Yes! – if we follow the practices of the Hygge way.

What an amazing book that Maya has presented to her readers. On the surface, it seems like a fast, simple read, but if one goes deeper there is a goldmine of treasure to be discovered. I found Maya’s writing style as one of a longtime dear friend as she shows us how to de-stress our lives. How-tos to simplify our homes, our work, create romance, relationships, attitudes, finances, holidays, even the food we eat, all to achieve the calmness of happiness in all areas of our lives. The changes suggested are not overwhelming, but very simple to achieve, whether you start with one part of your life or work on several at the same time. The minimalists are on the right track, however, I feel Maya’s carefree style with the Hygge way is the optimal in reaching that goal we all desire – the comfort of a warm blanket in everything we do. Highly recommended not only to read, but also to just try the 21-day challenge and be amazed at how beautiful life can truly be.

[Jessica Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I'd heard of Hygge before, I didn't really know what it meant before I picked this up. This book was an excellent starting point for me and a great introduction to embracing the Danish way of life. If you're interested in understanding Hygge or if you're simply looking to let a little more warmth or fulfilment into your life then this is a good place to begin!

I found it very easy to read and understand due to its simple language and structure. In short thematic chapters, it clearly and concisely explores how Hygge can be manifested in many different aspects of one's life – at home, at work, in relationships, in what you choose to wear, amongst others. Each chapter lays out the abstract principle of Hygge and then goes on to offer practical, concrete suggestions about how one could embrace the ideal in their everyday life.

The suggestions are realistic and economical, even (or especially!) for those who live busy, chaotic lives. The 21 day challenge at the end of the book is a brilliant idea for easing oneself into a new way of thinking, as it simply involves embracing one Hygge practice a day. If you are well-versed in Hygge or already practising it, this book might be less suitable, as it is more of an overview than a detailed exposition. Having said that, it could still be useful for the Hygge experts as a reminder of the key principles!

All in all, a great little book– I'll definitely be adopting some Hygge into my life after this!

[Priscilla Seah · Rating 5 out of 5]

While the Danish concept of Hygge might not be entirely new to some, Maya Thorensen’s book goes into great detail about what it means to apply Hygge to all parts of your life - home, relationships and even work.

The book’s tips are well written, detailed and extremely simple to follow. As someone who constantly worries about things, I was particularly impressed by the parts on self-care, particularly the tips given on how to practice mindfulness, gratitude and being kind to yourself. Many of us forget, in our constantly busy lives, to sit back and take care of ourselves, and Maya’s book was a great reminder on just how important this can be when trying to achieve greater happiness.

I also really liked the parts on the advice given on decluttering. This reminded me of the concept espoused by Marie Kondo and definitely inspired me to try to simplify my own life using Maya’s book.

Overall, a really simple yet helpful read. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like great, practical tips on how to practice Hygge (or even if you just want to know more about it!)

[Kiranmayi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a short book with less than 50 pages which is more like a guide with pointers on how Hygge can be applied to daily life. Since Hygge is originating from Danish people, some aspects mentioned may not be relevant for few parts of the world. However, the basic principles can be understood and applied by anyone to have a better and happier life. While I would have preferred to have the principles explained in more detail, this book is a great starter for those looking to improve their life by including simple changes. Because Hygge is all about the simple changes, simple pleasures and leading a simple but fulfilling life.

Detailed review on my blog:
https://medium.com/@kiranmayi.g/book-...

[Lynn Johanek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice book to get you to realize that you can live simple and happy. I’ve already started by user candles at night even though this is a challenge and it’s summer. I always felt candles are for cold weather but its a nice feeling to see every room glowing. I would recommend this book to my sister because she lives a busy life. I choose a 4 star because it targeted every area in my life.

Nice book to get to realize that you can live simple and happy. I had a hard time trying to use candles as lighting at night but love the glow of all the candles.

[Ruth · Rating 1 out of 5]

Filled with such simple-minded advice as "don't watch upsetting movies if they are going to upset you" and "don't forget to pack socks so your feet will be warm when you travel," and fluffed up with meaningless photos, this self-published book is to be avoided. This one desperately needed an editor. There are many better books on Hygge, including The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living (2017).

[Laura Woodburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Introduction

This was exactly the introduction I needed into Hygge. I was new to Hygee and I have already been able to implement some of the principles to my everyday life and I would highly recommend trying out the family activities. This book is brilliant at explaining what Hygee actually means and how to use this

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW


First off let me say I really enjoyed the concepts in this book and learning a bit more about what Hygge (like hoover) is all about but I found the narration on this audio far too fast and the word Hygge was said far too many time’s so became annoying. If you ignore this the information included in the book is really good so not a bad listen just snow it down a little bit.

[Kirby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very brief book, and the narrator reads really quickly, so it felt a little overwhelming. I am very into Minimalism right now, and was pleased to find that I am already living Hygge in many ways, but this was very helpful guide to see the pieces and parts I was missing. I think would love to get the numbered lists as a PDF copy or image to go with the audiobook.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth it

This little book will ultimately be whatever you choose to make of it. It’s ideal to re-set your compass and to focus on the stuff that genuinely matters. The ideas mentioned in the book are all easily explained, achievable and also inspirational. It’s well worth reading.

[Renata Vicente · Rating 2 out of 5]

Superficial e introdutório

É um livro bastante superficial que traz o conceito básico do Hygge, ou viver confortavelmente apreciando as coisas simples da vida, sem mais aprofundamento. Serve de livro introdutório ao mesmo tempo que cansa um pouco com tantas frases impositivas - “você deve”, “faça”...

[Lauren Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a super short introduction to Hygge with lots of quick tips and advice on how to follow the lifestyle. I like that it touches on just about everything, and doesnt shy away from saying "hey, maybe some of the shit you do/have doesnt serve you well". Lots of concrete ideas as well as some bigger philosophical concepts. This is a true introduction, and easy to digest.

[Becky Galambos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was reaching the end of my emotional rope and my normal self-care routines just weren't cutting it anymore. I started researching cultures with the highest happiness rating and discovered Hygge. I am starting to incorporate it into my life and am going to do the 21 day challenge soon.

[Jessica Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book

This book was so beautiful to read; I’m starting to learn to live the slow living kind of life so this book really gave me so eye openers. It’s a beautiful, makes your heart warm kind of book

[Suzanne English · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book because I really enjoyed another book on Danish Hygge ; and while this book reiterated many of the same messages, it did so in a much more lecturing manner without the humor. If you want a textbook on how to embrace Hygge like the Dane’s than this might be the book for you.

[Katie Chose · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ich fand es okay, es hat gezeigt, dass ich die eine oder andere Sache noch einmal überdenken und entspannter, bzw. hyggeliger machen kann. Dennoch konnte es mich nicht so ganz überzeugen, was vielleicht auch an der Sprecherin lag, die mich nicht so richtig abholen konnte.

[Susan K · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5. Kind of a weirdly written book.. Most of its common sense, and some parts unrealistic as she is purporting to have a perfect family household through the practice. Come on! 😂 Interesting concept and a quick read.

[Inês Teixeira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Para quem não está familiarizado com o conceito de Hygge, é uma excelente introdução. Um bocadinho repetitivo, mas com muitas dicas e listas para o leitor poder experimentar esse estilo de vida. Lê-se num ou dois dias.