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The Cozy Life with Hygge
This is the revised and updated version of the original book, The Cozy Life: Rediscover the Joy of the Simple Things Through the Danish Concept of Hygge by Pia Edberg
In today's world, we're constantly rushing from one thing to the next and are struggling with information overload. We're more disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones than ever before.
Rediscover the joy of the simple things through the Danish cultural concept of Hygge in The Cozy Life with Hygge. This book will inspire you to slow down and enjoy life's cozy moments!
What's stopping you from living a more meaningful and connected life?
Is Hygge why Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world? Embrace the little things and take simplicity and minimalism up a notch. Add Hygge into every aspect of your life with practical examples and tips. Say goodbye to the winter blues and live a healthier, more centered life.
In today's world, we're constantly rushing from one thing to the next and are struggling with information overload. We're more disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones than ever before.
Rediscover the joy of the simple things through the Danish cultural concept of Hygge in The Cozy Life with Hygge. This book will inspire you to slow down and enjoy life's cozy moments!
What's stopping you from living a more meaningful and connected life?
Is Hygge why Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world? Embrace the little things and take simplicity and minimalism up a notch. Add Hygge into every aspect of your life with practical examples and tips. Say goodbye to the winter blues and live a healthier, more centered life.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2016
639 people are currently reading
2650 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
January 6, 2017
This is a sweet little book that you can read in about an hour and will help you incorporate the concept of hygge into your daily life. “These pages hold the ingredients for creating a richer and deeper experience in everything we do. So if, perhaps, you want to wrap yourself in a lifestyle that feels like a warm hug, then this book is for you.”
I realize, after reading it, I have been hygge-ing most of my life! It’s about surrounding yourself with people and things you love; making your home your haven by filling it with things that are meaningful to you and getting rid of what is not. I decided years ago to hang only original art in my home, no more prints, reproduced in hundreds – and that little change made a big difference. It doesn’t have to be expensive art. I do have a few really nice pieces, but also some made by family that are just as beautiful and meaningful. It is the little things that bring us pleasure, not having lots of stuff – but having quality things such as cozy bedding, thick fluffy towels, yummy soaps, the best quality tea and coffee....and so on. You don’t need more ‘stuff’ to ‘hygge’, you just need a few quality things that bring you pleasure. One thing I have enjoyed this winter is a simple bowl of pinecones and pine boughs I arranged in a pretty bowl and put on my dining room table – free, from my back yard, but brings a nice wintery aroma to the room. Also, I find inexpensive tea lights are a must for winter hygge.
So put on your best pajamas, light a few candles, make a cup of tea (or warm beverage of your choice), wrap up in a soft blanket and grab a good book. This cozy lifestyle will definitely help chase away the winter blues.
I realize, after reading it, I have been hygge-ing most of my life! It’s about surrounding yourself with people and things you love; making your home your haven by filling it with things that are meaningful to you and getting rid of what is not. I decided years ago to hang only original art in my home, no more prints, reproduced in hundreds – and that little change made a big difference. It doesn’t have to be expensive art. I do have a few really nice pieces, but also some made by family that are just as beautiful and meaningful. It is the little things that bring us pleasure, not having lots of stuff – but having quality things such as cozy bedding, thick fluffy towels, yummy soaps, the best quality tea and coffee....and so on. You don’t need more ‘stuff’ to ‘hygge’, you just need a few quality things that bring you pleasure. One thing I have enjoyed this winter is a simple bowl of pinecones and pine boughs I arranged in a pretty bowl and put on my dining room table – free, from my back yard, but brings a nice wintery aroma to the room. Also, I find inexpensive tea lights are a must for winter hygge.
So put on your best pajamas, light a few candles, make a cup of tea (or warm beverage of your choice), wrap up in a soft blanket and grab a good book. This cozy lifestyle will definitely help chase away the winter blues.
December 12, 2019
This book more or less repeated the same things the previous Hygge book told me, but in less exciting and less cozy way. The two main takeaways for me from this book was:
1) The thing all Danish wanted me to learn to say - "rødgrød med fløde" and when asked what it means couldn't explain and just said that it is "food with berries and cream". Yeah, that thing. That thing is "ķīselis" - one of my favourite foods I had as a child. Finding this out really was mind-blowing. And the only reason I found this out was because this book contained a recipe for this mystical food. I mean, I didn't live in Denmark that long, but this is certainly giving me some satisfaction.
2) The author suggests to return to things you enjoyed as a child to see if you still enjoy them - this is one of the things I have started to do before reading this book, just naturally came to the decision to do that.
And a bonus one: I don't particularly care about recipes in these books because I know my Hygge foods.
1) The thing all Danish wanted me to learn to say - "rødgrød med fløde" and when asked what it means couldn't explain and just said that it is "food with berries and cream". Yeah, that thing. That thing is "ķīselis" - one of my favourite foods I had as a child. Finding this out really was mind-blowing. And the only reason I found this out was because this book contained a recipe for this mystical food. I mean, I didn't live in Denmark that long, but this is certainly giving me some satisfaction.
2) The author suggests to return to things you enjoyed as a child to see if you still enjoy them - this is one of the things I have started to do before reading this book, just naturally came to the decision to do that.
And a bonus one: I don't particularly care about recipes in these books because I know my Hygge foods.
January 7, 2020
Got the paperback.
I am obsessed right now with the Danish concept of hygge. This book is adorable. It has suggestions for incorporating hygge into your life in every way...through food, activity, rituals, self-reflection, and establishing traditions that focus on simple pleasures.
I also love the minimalist component.
Lovely book and inspiring concept for life!
I am obsessed right now with the Danish concept of hygge. This book is adorable. It has suggestions for incorporating hygge into your life in every way...through food, activity, rituals, self-reflection, and establishing traditions that focus on simple pleasures.
I also love the minimalist component.
Lovely book and inspiring concept for life!
April 22, 2017
The third and probably last book about Hygge I've read. After reading the first one, I wanted to get some alternate viewpoints based on some of the reviews. This one looks self published and is definitely the lower physical/professional quality of the three. I mainly picked it out because it had the most holds at my library of all the Hygge books. The main thing that I gained from reading three books on the subject is that everyone's hygge is a little different. Some focus more on social connection, some more on peaceful solitude. Some focus more on hunting and eating meat, and others don't mention it at all. The first two books both included products and objects that are important to nordic culture and "hygge," but this third book did not include any, and emphasized more that hygge is simple, that it's valuing what you already have, and that hygge is for everyone, no matter what economic status.
August 2, 2016
HYGGE ALL DAY EVERYDAY. Favorite and this book is adorable w/the sweetest little drawings. Srsly cute cute cute and cozy cozy cozy and love love love.
May 7, 2016
The writer tells us what Hygge is and how to apply the concept of Hygge in our lives so that we can lead a minimalist life that is uncluttered. Reading this book gave me a feeling of comfort and I found it very pleasurable. She gives many tips on how we can make our lives more enjoyable by creating a Hygge home.
December 6, 2024
I may have to rename my "cozy blanket reads" shelf to "hygge reads" because that totally encompasses what a cozy blanket read is for me. I'm so enamoured with the concept of hygge, it totally fits my aesthetic and the desires of my heart :) The writing is very simple but that works for the concept of this book as well.
October 27, 2019
The only good thing about this book is that it is very short. It is filled with banalities, generalisations and clichés. You want hygge? Just take a bath, have some tea, call a friend or grab an ice cream. Or find another way to make yourself comfortable.
February 6, 2017
2.5 stars. It was a cute book, and I like the hygge concept, for certain! That said, the content was a bit repetitive (lots of talk of candles) and could have been whittled down further. More personal stories about hygge in Danes' lives would have improved things, but overall a pleasant and fun read.
February 6, 2017
It seems I'm hearing about the Danish concept of Hygge everywhere these days. So when my GR friend (thanks Dana!) gave this such a great review I picked it up. I'm so glad I did. The Danes are said to be the happiest people on earth and Hygge is what helps get them through the long dark winters.
Hygge is about discovering the joy in simple things, and being more mindful and intentional. It's about being instead of having. At my age this resonates with me. I regularly purge and feel a strong desire to rid myself of too much "stuff" which not only clutters the house, it clutters my mind. It gives me great joy to be surrounded by things that perhaps don't have monetary value, but have a deep meaning to me. Also, cozy clothes, throws, socks, a fire in the fireplace, good food, a good book, dogs curled up next to me, good friends....well, let's just say I have that one down pat and have for many years, but I need to work on disconnecting electronics ;-)
Hygge is about a spirit of togetherness, hospitality, simple food, and cozy surroundings. It's a concept that can be incorporated into our everyday lives and the author gives tips on how to do that. There's nothing earth-shattering here, just good reminders that, in the words of the author, "moments of connection, presence, simplicity, and joy are what enriches our lives at a deeper level".
It was fitting that I read this little gem while under the weather, on my cozy couch in my cozy clothes, while sipping a warm cup of tea.
Hygge is about discovering the joy in simple things, and being more mindful and intentional. It's about being instead of having. At my age this resonates with me. I regularly purge and feel a strong desire to rid myself of too much "stuff" which not only clutters the house, it clutters my mind. It gives me great joy to be surrounded by things that perhaps don't have monetary value, but have a deep meaning to me. Also, cozy clothes, throws, socks, a fire in the fireplace, good food, a good book, dogs curled up next to me, good friends....well, let's just say I have that one down pat and have for many years, but I need to work on disconnecting electronics ;-)
Hygge is about a spirit of togetherness, hospitality, simple food, and cozy surroundings. It's a concept that can be incorporated into our everyday lives and the author gives tips on how to do that. There's nothing earth-shattering here, just good reminders that, in the words of the author, "moments of connection, presence, simplicity, and joy are what enriches our lives at a deeper level".
It was fitting that I read this little gem while under the weather, on my cozy couch in my cozy clothes, while sipping a warm cup of tea.
May 31, 2023
Hygge е датска дума, чийто превод е труден, но е най-близо може би до "уютване" ако мога да си измисля малко българския - да направиш дома си, ежедневието си, контактите си с хора като цяло живота си уютни, приятелски, предразполагащи и спокойни.
Дали ще седиш у вас с хубава книга и ще си пийваш винце пред камината, дали ще празнуваш Коледа със семейството в задушевна атмосфера или ще си избереш професия, която ти е приятна и ти оставя достатъчно време да си живееш живота - всичко това са страни на hygge (чете се хюю-га).
Българите имаме добри традиции в тази насока, особено що се отнася до домашното винце, камините, празнуването със семейства и приятели на маса, но още има доста какво да научим що се отнася до ароматните свещи, спокойното приемане на трудностите в живота и отношенията, избягването на междуличностни драми от всякакъв вид, медитацията (а и, за да сме честни, четенето като цяло).
Настоящата кратка книжка много добре обяснява какво е hygge и как да hygge и защо и как го правят датчаните и изобщо датския дух на hygge начин на живот.
Дали ще седиш у вас с хубава книга и ще си пийваш винце пред камината, дали ще празнуваш Коледа със семейството в задушевна атмосфера или ще си избереш професия, която ти е приятна и ти оставя достатъчно време да си живееш живота - всичко това са страни на hygge (чете се хюю-га).
Българите имаме добри традиции в тази насока, особено що се отнася до домашното винце, камините, празнуването със семейства и приятели на маса, но още има доста какво да научим що се отнася до ароматните свещи, спокойното приемане на трудностите в живота и отношенията, избягването на междуличностни драми от всякакъв вид, медитацията (а и, за да сме честни, четенето като цяло).
Настоящата кратка книжка много добре обяснява какво е hygge и как да hygge и защо и как го правят датчаните и изобщо датския дух на hygge начин на живот.
July 16, 2017
“Hygge was never meant to be translated; it was meant to be felt.” - ToveMaren Stakkestad
Nevertheless, Pia Edberg does her best to explain it. She sums it up as “the joy in simple things.” It’s joy in relationships. It’s coziness, homeyness, and contentedness.
"In a big departure from modern culture, we intentionally enjoy the domestic and personal aspects of life. It’s really about simplicity."
Edberg says the Danes have perfected the art of hygge because they are less materialistic than other cultures, valuing experiences and relationships over accumulating stuff. She calls it “the minimalist concept, taken up a notch.” It’s a healthful survival technique in a country where the cold weather and lack of sunlight can lead to depression. By focusing on all the cozy things you can do on a damp day, (build a fire, drink hot chocolate, snuggle under a blanket, etc., you are practicing hygge.
The main thing I learned from this book was how to pronounce hygge (HOO-gah) and that it’s both a noun and a verb. None of Edberg’s explanations and suggestions are revolutionary, but I appreciated the reminders to slow down and savor God’s good gifts. Gratitude is a central component of hygge. What Edberg calls “cozy” activities I would venture to call “humanizing.”
I didn’t know until I read this book that I’m a hyggelist. Some of the activities she suggests for a more cozy life are 1) making your own bread, 2) reading a good book, 3) drinking tea, 4) writing letters, 5) printing your pictures to put into actual albums, 6) taking a walk, and 7) keeping a gratitude journal.
Most of all, focus on what’s important. Savor the moment. Concentrate on your soul more than on your achievements.
A simple little book that can be read in one sitting.
Nevertheless, Pia Edberg does her best to explain it. She sums it up as “the joy in simple things.” It’s joy in relationships. It’s coziness, homeyness, and contentedness.
"In a big departure from modern culture, we intentionally enjoy the domestic and personal aspects of life. It’s really about simplicity."
Edberg says the Danes have perfected the art of hygge because they are less materialistic than other cultures, valuing experiences and relationships over accumulating stuff. She calls it “the minimalist concept, taken up a notch.” It’s a healthful survival technique in a country where the cold weather and lack of sunlight can lead to depression. By focusing on all the cozy things you can do on a damp day, (build a fire, drink hot chocolate, snuggle under a blanket, etc., you are practicing hygge.
The main thing I learned from this book was how to pronounce hygge (HOO-gah) and that it’s both a noun and a verb. None of Edberg’s explanations and suggestions are revolutionary, but I appreciated the reminders to slow down and savor God’s good gifts. Gratitude is a central component of hygge. What Edberg calls “cozy” activities I would venture to call “humanizing.”
I didn’t know until I read this book that I’m a hyggelist. Some of the activities she suggests for a more cozy life are 1) making your own bread, 2) reading a good book, 3) drinking tea, 4) writing letters, 5) printing your pictures to put into actual albums, 6) taking a walk, and 7) keeping a gratitude journal.
Most of all, focus on what’s important. Savor the moment. Concentrate on your soul more than on your achievements.
A simple little book that can be read in one sitting.
January 2, 2017
I'm so intrigued by hygge. Reading this book i discovered that I do a lot of these things already. For me, it's about slowing down, putting down my phone, and making people a priority. I want to do that more this year. This book also inspired me to declutter, which is something i really need to do.
Glad this was my first book of 2017!
Glad this was my first book of 2017!
March 23, 2021
I thought that this was a preciously charming read about cultivating more cozy into your life!
February 9, 2020
A small, cute, cozy, adorable book. I grabbed a handful of Hygge books from the library to help me survive these dark days of winter and I loved this one! The Cozy Life was informative, helpful, and made me feel cozy just reading it.
December 2, 2016
I've been interested in the Danish concept of hygge for awhile now but wasn't sure which book to pick up (there have been SO many "how to hygge" books published in the last little while!) When this one showed up on Kindle for $4.99 I decided to give it a go.
This was an incredibly fast read - I have a newborn and was able to finish it in one sitting. It reads more like a collection of informal blog posts than it does deep, thought-provoking non-fiction but that's okay. I was looking for a brief introduction to hygge, and this book delivered.
(Spoiler: hygge is essentially cozy, minimalist living with an emphasis on simplicity and quality time)
I found the first few chapters, where the author discusses the history and cultural significance of hygge, very interesting but the rest of the book was a bit vague and became a little repetitive. Still - a quick, enjoyable read that I'd recommend to anyone interested in an overview of this trend.
"All those small moments in between the big moments are just as important and precious. Feelings of connection, presence, simplicity, and joy are what enriches our lives at a deeper level."
"It’s extremely important to spend time alone with ourselves in order to dream and reflect. When we can become comfortable with introspection and idleness, we find the space to figure out who we really are."
This was an incredibly fast read - I have a newborn and was able to finish it in one sitting. It reads more like a collection of informal blog posts than it does deep, thought-provoking non-fiction but that's okay. I was looking for a brief introduction to hygge, and this book delivered.
(Spoiler: hygge is essentially cozy, minimalist living with an emphasis on simplicity and quality time)
I found the first few chapters, where the author discusses the history and cultural significance of hygge, very interesting but the rest of the book was a bit vague and became a little repetitive. Still - a quick, enjoyable read that I'd recommend to anyone interested in an overview of this trend.
"All those small moments in between the big moments are just as important and precious. Feelings of connection, presence, simplicity, and joy are what enriches our lives at a deeper level."
"It’s extremely important to spend time alone with ourselves in order to dream and reflect. When we can become comfortable with introspection and idleness, we find the space to figure out who we really are."
May 18, 2019
The book read more like a collection of blog posts than a book (which may be exactly how it was written, as I have not yet checked out the author's website). Read due to the current popularity of hygge outside of Denmark. Took me about 1.5 hours to read and some of the advice felt trite.
Probably not the best book out on the subject.
Probably not the best book out on the subject.
July 16, 2016
such a great book to remind one to slow down and savor. lots of good tips for any time of year.
February 5, 2017
This had some cute bits, and I love the cover, but I felt like it made hygge feel a bit to complicated and unattainable. I also think the image of Denmark was a bit too utopian...
February 16, 2018
Fun read. :)
August 31, 2017
|Review in EN & FR|
I have Swedish and Polish origins: countries where winter is long and rough, so I bathe in a "hygge" universe since childhood! I'm particularly sensitive to this cozy atmosphere, turned towards the well-being, that's why I enjoyed so much this book. I didn't learn much but I recommend it if you want to discover this way of life and improve yours!
+ : it's a feel-good book with very simple advices to apply and often not expensive (even free), the pleasure of reading my daily life (I'm so hygge in my everyday life that reading it aloud became a joke with my darling ^^)
- : the author could have further developed her well-being tips and gave more anecdotes
-------
Je suis d'origine suédoise et polonaise, des pays où l'hiver est long et rude, autant vous dire que je baigne dans un univers "hygge" depuis l'enfance ! Je suis particulièrement sensible à cet univers cosy, tourné vers le bien-être, donc ce livre m'a beaucoup plu. Je n'y ai pas appris grand chose mais je vous le recommande si vous souhaitez découvrir ce mode de vie et améliorer votre quotidien !
+ : c'est un livre feel-good avec des conseils très simples à appliquer et souvent peu coûteux (voire gratuits), le plaisir de lire mon quotidien (je suis tellement hygge dans ma vie de tous les jours que le lire à haute voix est devenu une blague avec mon chéri ^^)
- : l'auteure aurait pu encore développer ses conseils bien-être et donner plus d'anecdotes
August 22, 2017
Another book about positive over negative, comfort in oneself, your surroundings, your life, minimalism, being cozy, slowing down, being mindful in our daily lives. It was a nice Danish insight into what is Hygge, the development and how to create Hygge in your own life. I've read the Swedish version and several American versions, avoided the Japanese version and pretty much got it now. In fact, I could probably write this book. I will say, it's a good reminder for us to slow down and create the warm, comfortable environment, the life we want to live while being a good host or hostess to others.
Update: I reread this book and updated my rating. She has some really good points on calming your life, becoming more joyful and satisfied with your present life, and less focused on activities and stuff and keeping up with others. Definitely worth reading.
I think I'll find myself rereading this one rather regularly as a reminder to slow myself.
Update: I reread this book and updated my rating. She has some really good points on calming your life, becoming more joyful and satisfied with your present life, and less focused on activities and stuff and keeping up with others. Definitely worth reading.
I think I'll find myself rereading this one rather regularly as a reminder to slow myself.
January 25, 2017
This book was a sweet, simple introduction to the concept of "hygge." It's a short book and a quick read, but I enjoyed meandering through it a little more slowly than I normally would a book this size. I don't know that I learned anything new about hygge, but I did pick up some practical tips for incorporating more hygge into my life. I think that I will now skim through the book again and try incorporating different aspects of hygge into my day (otherwise this is just going to plant in my brain as an "interesting read," but I won't do anything about it).
I do think the book is written a bit too simply, but I enjoyed reading it, and I am glad to have it on my shelf as a handy reference for ways to incorporate the Danish idea of "the cozy life" into my own life.
I do think the book is written a bit too simply, but I enjoyed reading it, and I am glad to have it on my shelf as a handy reference for ways to incorporate the Danish idea of "the cozy life" into my own life.
July 15, 2017
A great book on returning to the simple life based on the happiness of the Danish people. Pronounced Hoo-gah, it focuses on cozy activities, well-being, intimacy, warmth with yourself, candles, blankets, fireplaces, picnics, etc. Since my husband works with a Danish company and I've been to Copenhagen twice with him (in a brutal winter and a beautiful fall). In our world of excesses and high-tech, this little book reminds you to focus on the little things. Similar to the minimalistic movement and the quest to "spark joy" (The Life-changing Magic of Tidying Up), there is nothing earth-shattering, but it is a good reminder to focus on what is truly important.
February 2, 2018
A super quick read, full of hygge. If you're new to the concept, it's full of gems, but for me, it didn't contain very much that was new or inspiring. I've pretty much been aggressively pursuing cozy for years. I'm part Danish, so I'm eager to try some of the recipes and get in touch with my heritage. And while I've been practicing some parts of hygge for ages (coziness, simplicity, tea, etc) I haven't been as faithful to say, take long walks in the cold. I'll have to get up the courage to do that more often and see if it enhances my hygge experience. For me, this book was less of a discovery of a new way of life and more of a validation of how I'm already living.
May 16, 2016
This was an interesting book which covered the history of hygge and offered practical tips for how to incorporate this concept into your daily life. I wish I could say I felt inspired to live a more hygge lifestyle but with two small children, adding on any additional responsibilities and having people over for just a social visit seems out of the realm of possibility. I may come back to this book after the children are older, but now it was just a nice book to read with some cute pictures and a very positive outlook on life.
January 7, 2018
I read this because I missed the coziness of my Christmas decorations. It wasn't what I expected but still a good intro to 'hygge'. As it turns out, that concept appeals to me - from my sweaters, to my books, to the way I like my food, to the peace that I often crave (except I'm not much for hosting in my home, but I can work on that). The best parts were the traditional recipes and the stories from her father. And my house (at least my living room) is still sweet and cozy and welcoming even after Christmas. :)
November 24, 2016
Very quick read. I know I am way late to the hygge game, but I have been obsessively looking up all books on the topic in an effort to have a better attitude about winter. This was helpful! It was a little redundant at times, but a nice primer on the concept and helpful in changing my perspective about the joy that can be found in making the best of it.
December 25, 2016
Didn't totally suck but most of the advice was "duh!" Also SWEEPING cultural generalizations and assumptions. Glad I got it in kindle version. If paper I would need to get rid of this book since it doesn't meet the requirements of hygge minimalism.
February 11, 2017
Great book for beginners who want to understand what Hygge is! I enjoyed a peaceful afternoon with my coffee and sunshine reading away.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews