How to Hygge: Nordic Secrets to a Happy Life

Discover the secrets of hygge: where coziness, warmth, and community is key.

The “Danish coziness” philosophy is fast becoming the new “French living” in terms of aspirational lifestyle books and blogs. There are countless viral articles comparing the happiness levels of Americans versus Danes. Their homes are more homey; their people are more cheerful. It’s an attitude that defies definition, but there is a name for this slow-moving, stress-free mindset: hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”). Hygge values the idea of cherishing yourself: candlelight, bakeries, and dinner with friends; a celebration of experiences over possessions, as well as being kind to yourself and treasuring a sense of community.

How to Hygge by chef and author Signe Johansen is a fresh, informative, lighthearted, fully illustrated how-to guide to hygge. It’s a combination of recipes, helpful tips for cozy living at home, and cabin porn: essential elements of living the Danish way—which, incidentally, encourages a daily dose of “healthy hedonism.” Who can resist that?

SIGNE JOHANSEN is a writer and cook who grew up in Norway. After graduating from the University of Cambridge, she trained at Leiths School of Food and Wine in London, worked in several of the UK’s top restaurants, and then completed a master's degree at the University of London. The author of two critically acclaimed Scandilicious cookbooks and contributor to 12 other books on food and restaurants, her recipes have appeared in The Times, Sunday Times, and Marie Claire. Johansen lives in London.

Hardcover.