For those enduring the mental and emotional challenge of social isolation during coronavirus, cold-weather concepts like hygge offer insights on how to cope.
Illustration: Isabel Seliger
"Hygge is a Nordic concept that roughly translates to 'coziness,' but is more than that. It’s a philosophy that emphasizes more intentional ways to find delight in your surroundings, even in the worst circumstances, according to Meik Wiking, the CEO of Denmark’s Happiness Research Institute and the author of 'The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well.' The Danish incorporate hygge into their lifestyle as part of as a 'survival strategy' for winter days in which they have to stay inside, and with limited sunlight. And over the last few years, it’s gained traction in North America as a way to cope with the bleakness — and discover the joys — of their own winters."
Article: What We Can Learn From Coziness Culture About the Art of Staying Home