In Denmark, taking a break from the busyness of the day to enjoy the simple things with others is known as hygge (pronounced hoo-gah). It’s no coincidence, the word sounds like hug, as their origins may be related. Although it’s performed throughout all seasons, hygge peaks in winter—an antidote to the dark and cold.
The holidays capture the hygge spirit: celebrations with friends and family over large meals; hot drinks enjoyed by the fire; walks in winter wonderlands of snow-laden conifers; observing wildlife stroll through a frosted meadow; joy found amongst the hustle and bustle.
Hygge, in and of itself, eludes set definition, and thus allows the individual to define it for themself. Our definition of hygge extends beyond the holidays and encourages a closer relationship with nature and the people around us as we face the coming year.
Togetherness
Within hygge, togetherness represents enjoying each other’s company and fostering connections. For us, it represents working with each other and nature to strengthen connections, benefits, and bonds between property owners, communities and the land.
Simple Pleasures
One may experience hygge when sipping a warm drink or when taking a walk in nature. Finding balance in the dualities of rural life—between moments of hard work, reflection and joy—are our simple pleasures for 2025.
Mindfulness and Well-being
Mindfulness is being present and enjoying the moment. Well-being is creating a relaxing and comfortable environment that nurtures mindfulness, relaxation and comfort. Within our 2025 outlook, these are combined to encourage embracing practices beneficial to all, such as farming regeneratively, curating environments that nurture nature, and observing and learning from the wisdom within nature’s cycles.
To Another Great Year
May we continue to learn from each other and celebrate our successes across the watershed together.
Happy 2025!
Bring Hygge to You with Trees
Let us help you create your own rural woodland hygge experience. Our full-service tree and shrub planting program has seedlings available for planting projects until February 27. We offer funding to cover up to 100 per cent of the planning, planting and maintenance costs. Eligibility conditions apply. Connect with us today.