I read the book The Year of Living Danishly: My Twelve Months Unearthing the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country by Helen Russell for one reason. I’ll be in Denmark – Copenhagen, Skagen, and Fredericia – for nearly half of my trip to Scandinavia. It was one of the books recommended for “People who are Traveling to Denmark” though I can no longer find that particular list. (I wish I could!)

So I read the book and I’m glad I did. It was an easy way to learn about the culture of the Danish people while reading a pleasurable enough book. (I’d give it a 3.5/5.)

Here are my takeaways, and these come from the last pages of the book. There are 10 tips for living Danishly:

1. Trust people more. No need to really explain this one. It’s all about less stress.

2. Get hygge. Hygge is the practice of adding cozy and simple pleasures for Your life, especially during the winter months which are long and dark and cold in Jutland. Light candles, drink all sorts of warm beverages, eat pastries, make your home cozy and inviting.

3. Get physical. Yes, there is a reason to do with all that exercise stuff. It makes you happy in addition to healthy.

4. It’s all about aesthetics. It’s all about design and art and your everyday environment. A pleasing environment reduces stress.

5. Cut down on choices. I like this one. Instead of going to the big box store that offers 50 kinds of detergent, visit the local vendor who stocks three. Last time, less hassle.

6. Pride. Do what you’re good at and enjoy it. Find something you love and celebrate.

7. It’s also all about family. Relatives and friends are number one, and the traditions and rituals that exist within those relationships make for happiness.

8. Equality. All work is worthy. Job status does not isolate the Danish into economic-based social groups. Happiness enhancer.

9. Play. Or…all work and no play makes Jack a dull less happy boy.

10. Share. The Danish government takes care of a lot–healthcare, education, childcare, etc. In our country where these very benefits are at risk, it Is up to us to make the difference. Help your neighbor, share your garden bounty, or invite someone over to share your hygge. You’ll all feel better.

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I love this idea of hygge, especially since I struggle during the winter dark. I love the idea of making the home environment spacious and inviting, and rather minimalist. Quality over quantity.

Also, the Danish decorate for the holidays, not by purchasing ass produced plastic decorations, but by gathering natural things and bringing them indoors. Not only the flowers that we are accustomed to, but branches and leaves, feathers and pinecones, mushrooms and acorns.

WInter is extreme and long–November to April is stay inside weather. Or dress appropriately for the weather. “There is no bad weather, ony bad clothing choices.” Right.

One of the other things I enjoyed about this book – the author moved to Jutland from London because of her husband’s new work with LEGO. She was not in Copenhagen, though she visited the largest city in Denmark and wrote about the food and cultural perks. But much of the book was written while she learned to navigate a small Jutland town. And two of the towns we’ll be visiting are in Jutland – Skagen and Fredericia. That really helped me get a sense of Denmark, both the cities and the towns.

Maybe my travels to Scandinavia will also enhance my appreciation of the coming winter. I can’t bring the Arizona sunshine to Madison, but I can plan my interior environment to support a happier and healthier life style.

Sweet!