2 minute read
Editor's Note
By Guy Roginson, Executive Editor, Talking Glass Media, LLC
When the concept of “cozy” comes to mind, we think of comfort, relaxation, and warmth. This definition seems closely related to the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”). The Oxford English Dictionary defines hygge as “a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).” Although hygge has long been associated with the Danish national character, the word is from the sixteenth century Old Norwegian term hugga, meaning to console or to comfort. It is no surprise that this Norwegian word is associated with the English word, hug.
Hygge seems to be more about Danish lifestyle than a single moment or a cozy blanket and fire. The Danes believe you can pursue the hygge lifestyle in everything you do. Whether that’s the passion found in your favorite foods, or the dirty work and toil found in your beloved hobby farm, hygge is, in a sense, creating sanctuary.
In this edition of TG Magazine we celebrate a number of sanctuaries found in our region. Why? Well, maybe something good happens to all of us when we experience coziness. Studies suggest when we get that “cozy feeling” it releases oxytocin in our bodies. Oxytocin is the “cuddle hormone”. A decrease in anxiety, increased empathy, positive emotion, relaxation and trust are all associated with oxytocin.
Find your cozy sanctuary right here in central Arizona.
- Edith Sitwell
