The Lightness of Summer Hygge: Simple Joys on Warm Days

Some words wrap you in warmth the moment you hear them. Hygge is one of those words for me. Often described as a uniquely Danish lifestyle philosophy, it’s all about peace, simplicity, and comfort. While many people associate it with winter — a cup of tea under a blanket — I don't quite see it that way. Because hygge is more a state of mind than a season.

The word “hygge” actually comes from Old Norse. In that language, it originally meant “comfort, safety, and inner peace.” It became part of Danish culture in the 1800s and has since become a central piece of their way of life. And although Denmark is now the country most associated with it, the essence of hygge is universal: it celebrates the joy found in genuine, simple moments.

For me, hygge is a kitchen gathering with my two closest girlfriends — making food, drinking coffee, and just being present. Nothing elaborate, just warm and honest. And in summer? That same feeling might come from a small seaside picnic with people I love, or sharing a bottle of wine on the rocks while watching the sunset. Just doing something you love, with people you love, and living that moment fully. That’s more than enough.

Sometimes summer comes with big plans, crowded holidays, and constant movement. But if we truly want to live hygge, we need to slow down and turn our eyes to the little things that are already around us. The warmth of the day’s first light touching your skin… the scent of the sea… biting into a fresh peach, its juice dripping down your fingers… the sound of birds while walking through a forest path. These things may seem small — but hygge is all about seeing the beauty in them.

Whether at home or on vacation, you don’t need grand settings or expensive objects to create this feeling. Sometimes it's just a morning coffee by the window, a kind word, a familiar voice. When those pieces come together, that warm, quiet happiness flows in — with or without a snowy backdrop.

And yes, hygge may look like a simple word, but it’s really a way of experiencing life. It’s the moments where you can say, “I’m happy right now, and I don’t need anything else.” It has nothing to do with time or place — only sincerity and the calm of simply being.

In fact, summer and hygge are a beautiful match. The sun, the sea, the earth, fruit, friendship, and time — they’re already here. We just sometimes forget to notice them.

Want to feel hygge in summer? Close your eyes and think of something that brings you joy. Then live that moment without overthinking, without big plans. Because happiness might just be a bit of salty air and a few familiar faces.