Uncovering the Fascinating History of Hygge

Throughout history, hygge has been a way of life for the Danes, with the word first appearing in Danish literature during the 18th century. Today, hygge is woven into the fabric of Danish culture and serves as a guide for creating a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle. It has been a part of Danish life for centuries, and its importance lies in its ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where families and friends can gather and connect.

But what many people may not realize is that the origins of hygge can be traced back to the Viking era.

The Vikings lived in a harsh, cold climate, where winter nights were long and dark. They had to find ways to keep warm and comfortable in their homes during the cold season. In order to survive, they developed a deep reverence for nature and the simple pleasures of life. They found comfort in the warmth of the fire, the soft glow of candlelight, and the company of loved ones.

The word itself comes from the Old Norse word "hugr," which means "mind" or "heart." It was a term used to describe the feeling of warmth and comfort that came from being surrounded by loved ones and a cozy atmosphere. It also originates from the Norwegian word 'hyggja', which means "to be snug" or "to hug".

The Viking traditions of making the most of simple pleasures and finding comfort in the little things are still deeply rooted in Danish culture today. Hygge has become a way of life for the Danes, who celebrate the cozy and comfortable moments of life.

So how did the Vikings practice hygge? 

Great question! Some examples include:

1) Gathering around a warm fire - Vikings lived in cold regions, and gathering around a warm fire with family or friends might have created a sense of hygge.

2) Sharing a hearty meal - food was central to Viking culture, and sharing a meal with loved ones might have been a cozy and comforting experience.

3) Using natural materials - Vikings used a lot of natural materials in their homes, such as fur, wool, and wood. These materials might have contributed to a sense of warmth and comfort.

4) Spending time outdoors - while it might seem counterintuitive, spending time outdoors in nature could be a way to experience hygge. Vikings were skilled hunters and fishers, and spending time outside in pursuit of food might have created a sense of closeness with nature.

5) Celebrating festivals - Vikings had a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, which might have been a time for people to come together, enjoy good food and drink, and revel in the company of each other. This could definitely have given people a feeling of hygge.

In essence, hygge is about creating a cozy, warm atmosphere where people can relax and take pleasure in life's simple joys. From the Vikings to modern-day Denmark, the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming space has remained a constant. So the next time you're sipping tea by the fireplace, wrapped in a warm blanket, remember that you're carrying on an ancient tradition that has brought comfort and joy to generations before you. 

There are many movies and TV series about Vikings, here are some of the best to explore:

1. Vikings (TV series)
2. The Last Kingdom (TV series)
3. The Viking Sagas (1995 film)
4. Valhalla Rising (2009 film)
5. The Vikings (1958 film)
6. Thor: Ragnarok (2017 film)
7. The Norsemen (1978 film)
8. Northmen: A Viking Saga (2014 film)
9. Beowulf & Grendel (2005 film)
10. Eric the Viking (1989 film)

These movies and TV series are not necessarily focused on the concept of hygge, but they may provide a cozy, comforting atmosphere for viewers who enjoy the Viking era.