The Hyggelig Journey

Lately, I’ve found myself anticipating winter — not because it is here, but because its presence has begun to register. A shift in tone. A quiet deviation from the familiar. We are still within autumn, yes, but the pattern is clear: a cooling, a thinning of light, a withdrawal. Winter does not arrive with grandeur. It infiltrates. It operates in intervals — a guest that does not overstay, yet rearranges the room all the same. It brings with it not only the chill, but a quiet audit of our habits. Our homes, designed for air and openness, falter in the face of this visitor. We adjust. Coats reappear. Blankets are retrieved from high places. Improvisation becomes method: Havaianas with woollen socks. Soup, made not only to nourish but to ground. This is where hygge emerges — not as aesthetic, but as principle. The deliberate act of creating warmth within transience. A structured comfort, built from attentiveness. Outside, clouds obscure the light. Inside, a countermeasure: sof...

Hygge is a Danish concept that describes the feeling of comfort, cosiness, and well-being found in simple, pleasurable moments. In Brazil, it can be felt in the gentle sway of a hammock on a veranda, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the warm breeze flowing through an open window, or the lush greenery of tropical plants. More than just a lifestyle, hygge is a state of mind that fosters relaxation and emotional balance. I first encountered hygge twenty years ago when one of my best friends, Kasper Nymand , introduced me to the concept. Since then, I have understood how deeply it aligns with the principles of Chinese Medicine, particularly in relation to the balance of Shen (mind), the most subtle manifestation of Qi (vital energy). When Qi becomes scattered or stagnant due to stress, symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and mental fatigue emerge. Creating a welcoming environment and embracing moments of pleasure and rest are essential to restoring this balance and st...

As an acupuncture physician practising in Uberaba, Minas Gerais, I face five main challenges that highlight the need for ongoing education about acupuncture. These challenges stem from misconceptions about integrative treatment, unrealistic expectations for immediate results, a limited understanding of acupuncture techniques, the role of hygge in the healing process, and the integration of cognitive therapy. Overcoming them is essential not only for raising awareness but also for building trust and ensuring long-term patient commitment. One of the most common difficulties is explaining what integrative treatment truly means. Many people still view acupuncture as an isolated or even mystical practice, unaware that it is recognised by modern medicine as part of a broader healthcare approach. This misconception can lead to hesitation or scepticism, making clear and effective communication essential. Medical acupuncture is a complete therapeutic system capable of treating a...

For over 19 years, Kasper Nymand has been more than just a friend — he’s my topbud . It’s not a widely known term, but it perfectly captures our bond. Kasper’s mind is nothing short of extraordinary — always hungry to learn, explore, and challenge ideas. His curiosity knows no bounds, and his insights never fail to inspire me. Through him, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for Danish culture, from the comforting embrace of hygge — that cosy, contented sense of togetherness — to the strong values of social fairness that shape life in Denmark. One of our long-standing fascinations has been the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (as flawed as it may be). Several years ago, we both took the assessment — I was identified as an INTJ (with a notably developed Introverted Feeling), while he was classified as an INFJ at the time. It sparked countless conversations about how we perceive the world, how we think, feel, and make decisions. But people evolve, and so did his result. More re...

I am almost certain we could say that hygge represents a hypo-egoic state of mind. The sense of comfort, contentment, and connection it fosters aligns closely with the non-entitlement perception of reality that characterises a hypo-egoic state. In hygge , the emphasis shifts away from self-importance and individual achievement towards a shared, present-moment experience—whether through simple pleasures, warm social bonds, or an appreciation of life's small joys. This surrender of ego-driven concerns in favour of collective well-being and mindful presence makes hygge not just a cultural concept but a psychological state that encourages humility, gratitude, and a deep sense of belonging.