Show Me
Louise Poole, Bachelor of Physiotherapy, International Placement in Denmark
When I went on an international placement to Denmark I had never heard of the term "hygge", but it didn't take long for me to start to feel and see the Danish practice of hygge in their daily life. Hygge, pronounced Hoo - guh, is a Danish term that can't be directly translated to any English word, but it encompasses the feeling of comfort and coziness that enhances contentment or wellbeing.
Hygge is so engrained in Danish culture that you will commonly hear Danish people bid each other farewell by saying, “have hygge”. The national practice of hygge is believed to be one of the reasons why Denmark ranks so highly on the list of the world happiest countries. Hygge is something we have likely all experienced. Whether it be, watching the sunrise with a warm cup of tea, creating a calming ambiance with candles or wrapping yourself up in a warm blanket.
The first time I was made aware of this phenomenon in Denmark I was sitting with a local Dane having a warm cup of coffee when a butterfly fluttered in through an open window. The Danish lady then said, “and now, we have hygge”. This moment stood out to me, as the first time that I had been so aware of how peaceful a moment could be. Hygge was even present on my physiotherapy placement, where physiotherapists would prescribe patients exercises that they could do in places where they could look out a window at the same time. Physiotherapists would also play patient’s favourite music throughout a treatment to create a more comfortable environment.
Since returning from Denmark, I find myself lighting that extra candle, or reading my book in the sunshine, and thanking the Danish people for teaching me to have Hygge.
Photo 1: A foggy sunrise on a Danish Farm
Photo 2: A hygge moment in Denmark soaking up the sunshine and some incredible views
We're available 9am–5pm AEDT,
Monday to Friday
If you’ve got a question, our AskACU team has you covered. You can search FAQs, text us, email, live chat, call – whatever works for you.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Copy Link