Living the Hygge Life
By Sam Washburn
I was incredibly fortunate to study abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, during the Fall of 2019. Copenhagen is a unique city that offers so much to learn. While in Denmark, I got to learn more about the Danish term, “hygge.” The Danes live and breathe by hygge. While this word has no direct translation into English, it resembles a feeling of coziness and happiness. Hygge involves blankets, warm food and drinks, and of course, plenty of candles.
One of the most defining elements of Danish culture is their use of candles and appreciation of natural light. In fact, Denmark uses more candles per capita than any other country! Candles provide natural light, which the Danes find much more cozy than electric light. Electric light gives off a harsh glow that is certainly not cozy and is often tough on the eyes. Danes also have large windows in their homes in order to attract as much natural light into their homes as possible. Denmark barely receives any sunshine during the winter, hence the reliance on candles. But impressively, even with the lack of sunshine, Denmark has repeatedly been voted to the happiest country in the world. That is, in part, because of the idea of hygge!
While candles may not be allowed in dorm rooms on Villanova’s campus, I think they are a staple home décor piece item that should be introduced into everyone’s home to introduce a feeling of hygge. While I wish Spring was closer, it seems we may be having chilly temperatures for the next few weeks. Creating more natural light in your area, whether that be through keeping more windows open or burning more candles, can help get us over that finish line to Spring. Candles have been around since as early as human life existed, as a source of light when the sun goes down. While the manufacturing process behind candles has changed drastically in modern times, candles still serve similar purposes.
Here are some of my favorite places to buy candles:
Anthropologie: While pricey, Anthropologie candles have the best scents and come with the most beautiful detailing on the candle holder. My favorite candle is the Volcano scent. It comes in a beautiful blue jar in a variety of sizes.
HomeSense: If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Anthropologie’s Volcano candle, check out HomeSense for its Storm by Scentsational Candle. It smells just like Volcano, but at half the price. HomeSense also carries Sand and Fog candles, which come with adorable patterns on the lid.
Tyler Candle & Co: If you’re looking for a small business to support, try https://taylorcandle-co.com/. Their candles range from chic vases to modern pieces and are reasonably priced, too!
And, if you’ve looking to be like a Dane and live hygge, try an unscented candle or a neutral-toned color candle without a vase. Make sure to light these candles at all hours of the day, when surrounded by those you care about most.
